About Us
Can you tell me about Drexel Online?
Drexel Online is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Drexel University offering innovative, Internet-based distance education programs to working professionals and corporations in the US and abroad. To learn more about Drexel Online, please click here.
Back to top
Can you tell me about Drexel University?
Drexel University is Philadelphia's technological university and a major, private US academic and research institution. Founded in 1891 by financier Anthony J. Drexel, the university is a recognized leader in the integration of technology in academic education. For more information about Drexel University, please click here.
Back to top
Is Drexel accredited? What are Drexel University’s rankings?
Drexel University is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges & Secondary Schools. This is the highest accreditation authority for colleges in Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, and other locations overseas. Institutions such as Carnegie Mellon, Columbia, Cornell, New York University, Princeton, and the University of Pennsylvania have the same accreditation. In addition, Drexel programs enjoy the highest professional accreditations in their respective fields. For instance, our MBA programs are accredited by AACSB International, our Nursing programs by NLN, and our programs in library & information science by ALA. Drexel University has many highly ranked programs including several undergraduate engineering programs, an MBA degree program ranked among the best 25 Online MBA programs by the US News & World Report, and an MS program in library and information science ranked among the Top 10 nationally by U.S.News & World Report, with the specialization in Information Systems ranked #1.
Back to top
Do you offer the same curricula and degrees as the ones earned on campus?
Yes. The same content and rigorous academic standards apply in both. Our programs are usually taught by the same professors who teach on campus – typically tenured faculty members of Drexel University, with PhD degrees and distinctions for their research and expertise in the subjects they teach. There is no distinction between on-campus and online students. In fact, when you complete your degree, your diploma and university transcript will be the same as those of students who earn their degrees on campus.
Back to top
Applying
Is there an application fee?
No. We have waived application fees for our online students.
Back to top
Do you award credit for prior learning experience?
Yes. Drexel University provides credit for prior learning for our Bachelor of Science in General Studies with a minor in Business, Bachelor of Science in General Studies - Individualized Studies, Bachelor of Science in Computing Security and Technology, and the Bachelor of Science in Communication and Applied Technology in the following ways: Transfer credit from other institutions, credit by examination, CLEP examinations, challenge examinations, and portfolio assessments. Once we receive your complete application package, and after review by the Admissions Committee, we will contact you concerning possible credit transfers. Students are evaluated individually and granted credit for courses completed at accredited colleges that are the equivalent to courses offered at Drexel University.
Back to top
Can I apply after the application deadline?
Even though we accept applications on a rolling basis, we must receive applications by the application deadline. To consider you for admission in the next available term, please see the program of your choice for application deadlines. In some programs, you may be able to join as a non-matriculated student and then matriculate as soon as you complete your application package. If you are unsure, call us toll-free at (877) 215-0009 or e-mail info@drexel.com.
Back to top
Do you offer self-paced, 'correspondence' programs?
No. All our programs have set dates when courses begin and end. Programs follow Drexel University's academic calendar. Students take courses in groups, with homework and assignments due on specified dates. However, students maintain the flexibility to decide when, within a week, they will study their course materials and attend online classes, since class sessions are asynchronous – they do not take place simultaneously for everybody at set times.
Back to top
What is a quarter credit? How does it compare to a semester credit?
Most Drexel University programs are structured on the quarter system. This means that we have four, ten-week long terms during the course of one year. Each semester credit is equal to 1.5 quarter credits. For instance, our Bachelor's in Communications and Applied Technology program, which has 180 quarter credits, is equal to 120 semester credits. Likewise, the minimum of 24 quarter credits required for admission to the bachelor's degree program is equal to 16 semester credits. Programs in Drexel University's College of Nursing and Health Professions are structured according to the semester system.
Back to top
I have applied and would like to check the status of my application. Who should I contact?
Please contact the Applicant Services Department at (877) 215-0009 (toll-free).
Back to top
How It Works
How does it work? What is it like to take an online class?
Taking an online program is easy to understand:
Connecting
A student needs a personal computer with an Internet connection and uses a web browser to access our e-learning environment. Instructional materials come in text, graphics, audio and video formats and are available online 24/7. Students can download and print them as they wish.
Instruction
Instruction is delivered primarily asynchronously (i.e., where the teacher and learner are not physically at the same place at the same time). Students work with materials either on their own or in discussion groups. They interact directly with each other and with the faculty typically through e-mail, threaded discussions (online discussion boards), chat and web-based whiteboard facilities, and some times through voice or video communication during synchronous sessions.
Assignments
All readings, work sessions, assignments and other tasks are pre-specified and monitored on a continuous basis. Written assignments are submitted online. Exams are taken online. Access to grades and feedback from instructors are provided online. Click here for our online demo.
Back to top
Who teaches my courses?
Our programs are usually taught by the same professors who teach on campus – typically tenured faculty members of Drexel University, with PhD degrees and distinctions for their research and expertise in the subjects they teach. They follow the same curricula, standards and accreditation as our programs on campus.
Back to top
How do I interact with my instructor? How are online discussions conducted?
Interaction
Students interact with their professor on a regular basis using e-mail, threaded discussions or online chat rooms. In specific corporate programs, some real-time video/audio or even face-to-face interaction may be possible.
Class Discussions
Discussions are conducted online through 'threaded discussions' (online discussion boards). Students post comments on questions in response to their instructor or to their peers. Students can read and post comments any time during the day. Over time, these threaded discussions emulate face-to-face classroom discussions and become the primary space where student inquiries are addressed, points of views get debated and where an instructor can probe further into students’ understanding of key concepts. On some occasions, discussions may also take place 'real time' (i.e., at the same time) through 'chat' facilities available for this purpose. Chat participants talk to each other 'live' by typing back and forth messages that appear on the screen as they are being typed. And of course, students and instructors also interact via e-mail.
Back to top
How much time does an online class take?
The total time to complete an online course (i.e., studying materials, attending lectures, interacting, completing assignments) is usually equivalent to that of an on-campus program. You have the extra flexibility to 'attend class' (i.e., read materials, watch lectures on your PC, interact in web-based discussions and complete assignments) whenever you want during the week.
Back to top
How many people are in a class?
This varies depending on the program, but the number is usually not much different from what you would expect from most traditional classroom settings (i.e., a maximum number of 20-30). We keep class sizes smaller in courses that require more intense interaction.
Back to top
How does grading take place?
Grading takes place in a similar manner to traditional, classroom-based education. The only difference is that most assessment activities are web-based. You complete assignments and take exams online.
In some rare cases, exams may be proctored at specified locations.
Back to top
How can I access the library?
Students to Drexel's online programs are provided access to the same resources as traditional con-campus students. This includes full access to Drexel University's online library. For more information please click here.
Back to top
How can I order books?
Textbooks can be ordered online from a general online bookstore (such as Amazon.com) or from a college-recommended online bookstore, depending on the program in which you are enrolled. Once you have confirmed enrollment, you will receive detailed information about specific sources from which to purchase books.
Back to top
What hardware and software do I need?
Students need particular hardware and software to successfully participate in our online programs. Typically, a configured personal computer and access to the Internet is all you need. Some programs require specific software, which is available to students free of charge. Applicants may use our automated system check or read our technical requirements for more information.
Back to top
Making Your Final Decision
I have seen many Online university programs advertised recently. How do I choose? Why is your program better?
Online vs. On-Campus
At Drexel University you will attend an online program from a major, private, non-profit academic and research institution. You will be taught by the same faculty teaching on campus, usually tenured professors with PhD degrees and national recognition for their research and expertise in the subjects they teach.
Your degree will be the same as the one earned on the Drexel campus in Philadelphia. It will be accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges & Secondary Schools as well as the highest professional accreditation authority in your field (i.e. AACSB, NLN, ALA).
Quality Education
Our online programs provide quality education and lead to credentials respected by employers. Completing our programs allows you to add the power of the Drexel name to your resume. Some of the recently established, online institutions cannot match our 110-year history and reputation.
- They may use instructors who teach part-time instead of full-time faculty members.
- They may lack our breadth of accreditation and program distinctions.
We also note the interactive design of our programs (offering ample communication with your instructors and peers, use of multimedia, individualized counseling, class format, structured calendar) vs. the self-paced, 'you-are-on-your-own' approach of other online programs. Your education is a significant investment. We recommend that you do careful research before you commit to a program. Stay away from unaccredited providers (also known as 'diploma mills'). Learn more about the institution you want to appear in your resume. Choose the program that fits better to your personal interests and professional aspirations.
Back to top
What is better, an e-Learning or an on-campus program?
To answer this question, we believe you need to consider the following factors:
QUALITY. In all degree programs that we offer online, we apply the same academic standards as on campus. Usually the same faculty members teach, drawing on the same curriculum as on campus.
PEDAGOGY. Through our system, interaction, which is sometimes perceived as a weak element of e-learning, often proves to be better both in depth and breadth compared to a typical classroom setting. For instance, our 'threaded discussion' facility permits students to demonstrate their thinking in a deliberate, thoughtful fashion, and for the teacher to see a learner's thought process. Students do not have to compete for 'air time' as often happens in traditional classes, and they can better think through their comments.
RECOGNITION. Completing our online programs you will receive the same, respected Drexel degree as on campus. Nothing about your diploma or transcripts differentiates you as an 'online' student.
CONVENIENCE. In this aspect, e-learning has great advantages, especially if you are a working professional or have family commitments that may prevent you from going to campus.
In the end, the answer to 'what is best' depends on the individual's priorities and preferences. An on-campus program may be more appropriate for those who value most the extensive face-to-face interaction, or those who do not feel comfortable with computers. On the other hand, when commuting to campus, work-life balance, and time-out-of-work are the most important considerations, e-learning presents a great possibility.
Back to top
Who is e-Learning for?
It is probably not for everyone, but it’s certainly very appropriate for most working adults with at least some prior, college-level education.
As an e-Learning student you need a basic familiarity with computers and the Internet. You do not need to be an expert in computing. You have to be comfortable with using a personal computer and Microsoft Office (e.g., MS Word, MS PowerPoint), know how to use an Internet browser (i.e., Internet Explorer) and how to communicate via e-mail. Most of the interaction with your instructors and peers will be via e-mail, online chat and 'threaded discussions' (online discussion forums), so you need to be comfortable with these applications.
You also need to be somewhat disciplined as a learner and committed to your education; which makes e-Learning more appropriate for adult learners who have already mastered the skill of learning through at least some prior college-level, or equivalent, education.
Back to top
What are the benefits for students?
We believe we offer convenient quality education online at a lower, total cost than equivalent education on campus. We also provide opportunities for career advancement and academic credit while you receive training at your workplace. For a more detailed discussion, please click here.
Back to top
What is the quality of e-Learning compared to traditional, classroom-based education?
As indicated in a study by the Alfred P. Sloan foundation "The medium is rarely the issue; it is good pedagogy that matters. Good and bad results can be produced by good and bad teaching." At Drexel Online we are fortunate to draw on a long history of curricular and technological innovation. We have applied these lessons to develop a highly interactive educational experience that keeps students engaged, and helps them learn more and perform better in their studies and beyond.
Back to top
Other
What is the difference between courses offered via Drexel University Online and those I can take online as a regular, on-campus student at Drexel University?
Our courses are regular Drexel University courses offered by the Colleges and Schools of Drexel University. They are taught by Drexel faculty, follow the same standards and lead to the same accredited degrees and other credentials as other programs offered by Drexel University either on campus or online. Drexel University Online is the online education subsidiary of Drexel University – a separate entity from your College. The students in courses offered via Drexel University Online are primarily working professionals (average age is 36). They attend entirely online (never have to come to campus), usually part-time, and may live anywhere in the US or abroad.
Back to top
How do I login to a Drexel course offered via Drexel University Online?
Most of the courses featured in our eCatalog run on the Blackboard learning management system (as opposed to the WebCT system that is used for many Drexel University web-enabled, on-campus courses). The Blackboard login page is http://drexel.blackboard.com. Students login with their normal Drexel username and password. You will not be able to login to Blackboard until shortly before the beginning of the term for which you have registered. If you register right before the beginning of the term, or after the term begins, there may be a delay of up to 48 hours between the time you register in Banner and when the course shows up in Blackboard. WebCT is used for our Engineering Management courses. LeBow College courses run on the eCollege platform. Please contact the LeBow College for more information.
Back to top
Do I need a textbook? How do I order textbooks?
Most courses we offer require one or more textbooks. The official site for ordering textbooks for our courses is the Drexel University Online Bookstore located at http://direct.mbsbooks.com/drexelelearning.htm. Some textbooks may not be available in the campus bookstore. Online courses offered via other Drexel colleges are available from the campus bookstore, or as otherwise indicated in the course syllabus.
Back to top
How will I receive official communications from Drexel University Online and my online course instructor?
Official communications will be sent via your Drexel e-mail account and/or within the Blackboard system. It is very important for you to have access to your Drexel e-mail account and to check it often.
Back to top
What is the schedule for courses offered via Drexel University Online?
Our courses follow the academic calendar of Drexel University. All programs run on the quarter system (click here for the university quarter academic calendar) except for the Advanced Physician Assistant program through the of the College of Nursing & Health Professions and the Certificate of Study in Clinical Research and the MS in Clinical Research Organization and Management through the College of Medicine which run as semester-based programs (click here for the university semester academic calendar). They start on the first day of the term and end on the last day of the term. Within the term, most courses follow a week-to-week schedule with readings, assignments, quizzes and other activities due at specific deadlines set by the instructor. Our classes are not “self-paced”. You must keep up with your assignments as the term progresses.
Back to top
Is there an orientation program for students new to online learning and/or the Blackboard system?
Yes. All students have the opportunity to take an online orientation course on Blackboard. The orientation course includes a browser test to make sure your PC meets technical requirements.
Back to top
How difficult are courses offered via Drexel University Online? Are they easier than regular Drexel University courses?
All the courses we offer are regular Drexel University courses. They are just as rigorous as Drexel courses offered on campus. Each course has been developed by and is taught by Drexel University faculty. And they lead to the same, accredited degrees or other credentials you would earn on campus.
Back to top
How does tuition and billing work for a course offered via Drexel University Online?
Currently enrolled Drexel students that register for one of our courses will be charged just as they would be for the same course offered on campus, with the exception that all undergraduate classes are charged at the regular “day” part-time rate, not the lower Goodwin College rate. Full-time undergraduate tuition covers Drexel University Online courses in the same way as it covers any other Drexel course. Charges for Drexel's online courses are included in the regular bill you receive from the University Bursar's Office – you will not receive a special bill.
Back to top
Where do I go for technical support?
Contact information for help resources may be found at www.drexel.com/help/.
Back to top
