Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts & Design

Frequently Asked Questions

For detailed information regarding Co-op visit the Steinbright Career Development Center's website.

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What is Co-op?: Drexel Co-op: "The Ultimate Internship®" Co-operative education at Drexel enables full-time undergraduate students to alternate periods of classroom theory with professional experience prior to graduation. Participation in co-operative education is available in all academic programs and over 95% of the undergraduates participate in the program.; One of the major reasons undergraduate students choose Drexel is the opportunity to gain six to 18 months of career-related work experience integrated with their coursework. Co-operative education helps students explore and confirm their career choices.; Co-op assists students in several areas of career development, including self-assessment, career exploration, and career experiences leading to full-time employment. Students develop confidence, professionalism, and a sense of purpose.

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How does a student obtain a Co-op?: Students obtain a Co-op through the Steinbright Career Development Center, or through faculty, networking or through their own research.

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When does a student go on Co-op?: With the exception of Music Industry majors, all Westphal College students go on Co-op for six months in the junior year.; Music Industry majors go on Co-op in the summer of the sophomore and junior years.; Architecture 2+4 majors do not have a Co-op, but as part of their academic program are required to work in the industry full time for the last four years of their program.

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Can a student do more than one Co-op?: With the exception of Music Industry majors, all Westphal College students are only required to go on one Co-op

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Are students paid while working on Co-op?: Most students are paid while working on Co-op. In some instances, the student may decide to work on a Co-op that doesn't pay.

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Since I'm not in school while I'm on Co-op, do I pay tuition?: Co-op is a requirement for graduation and is part of a student's educational experience. The annual tuition bill is not reduced while on Co-op.

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Can I Co-op in another city?: Yes. However, students are required to provide their own living arrangements and transportation if they plan to Co-op in another city.

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Can I attend classes while on Co-op?: It is not recommended that students take classes while on Co-op.; You will be billed by the credit hour for each class you take while on Co-op. Students are permitted to take a maximum of one class in the evening during their Co-op experience. The Career Development Office (SCDC) will review the student requests to take courses during Co-op experiences to ensure that classes will not conflict with the normal scheduled working hours of the employer.