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Custom-Designed Majors and Co-op

 
Most Custom-Designed Majors (CSDN) participate in Drexel's outstanding co-op program. Co-op, short for cooperative education, is a program that balances classroom theory with periods of practical, hands-on experience prior to graduation. Through the co-op program, CSDN students are able to alternate academic study with full-time employment, gaining valuable practical experience.

Drexel offers two co-op programs: the five-year program with three co-op experiences and the four year with one co-op experience. CSDN students choose which plan works best for them during the application process and build their academic plan accordingly. Drexel's Steinbright Career Development Center reviews CSDN students Vision Statement and assigns a co-op advisor who best aligns with the student’s interests and industry. A student's co-op advisor works with them throughout their co-op job search and while on the job.

CSDN students have pursued co-op opportunities:

  • Internationally working in Singapore, Greece, South Africa, Hong Kong, Germany, Equitorial Guinea, South Korea, and Zambia.
  • Nationally working in New York, Florida, California, Rhode Island, Maryland, New Jersey, Kentucky, and Massachusetts.
  • Regionally in the greater Philadelphia area as well as around the state of Pennsylvania.

Through a variety of co-op positions, students are able to explore different career paths. While some CSDN students are planning for a future in the lab others are aiming for field experience. There are also opportunities for budding entrepreneurs.

Co-op Employers and Positions held by CSDN students

CSDN students about their co-op experience


73%

of students said they would return to their employer for a future co-op or FT position

92%

said their co-op was relevant to their career objectives

92%

said their co-op met or exceeded their expectations

Employers about their CSDN student employees


100%

of employers working with CSDN students said their student’s academic preparation met the needs of their organization

100%

of employers working with CSDN students said they would consider re-hiring the student for a future position if available

100%

of employers working with CSDN students rated their student's performance as “Good” or “Excellent”


From 2020-2021 Academic Year cooperative education evaluations