The Semester Transition: What Employers Need To Know
This guide explains what Drexel's transition from a quarter-based calendar to a semester-based calendar means for co-op hiring and your continued partnership with Drexel.
What Stays the Same: Almost Everything
- Same length of time – Six-month co-op cycles remain the standard after the transition period on August 23, 2027
- Same hiring process – A, B, and C recruitment rounds continue unchanged
- Same portal and systems – No changes to how you post positions or review candidates
- Same advisor relationships – Your dedicated co-op advisor remains your main contact
- Same talent pipeline – Drexel students continue to bring job-ready skills and real-world experience
What's Changing
Co-op cycle timing shifts slightly to align with the new academic calendar.
| Co-op Cycle | New Timing (Post-Transition) |
|---|---|
| Fall Co-op | Early July through early January |
| Spring Co-op | Early January through early July |
Transition Period: Summer 2027
To shift from quarters to semesters, Summer 2027 will be a one-time shortened term. This affects two co-op cycles:
| Cycle | Impact | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Spring/Summer 2027 | ~1 month shorter | March 29, 2027 – August 20, 2027 |
| Fall Semester 2027 | ~1 month shorter | August 23, 2027 – January 7, 2028 |
After January 2028, all co-op cycles return to the standard six-month duration.
Lynne Hickle
Executive Director, Cooperative Education
Executive Director, Cooperative Education
Cooperative Education
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