Enter OTP
Drexel’s program emphasizes flexibility and real-world application through its co-op system. Students explore economics while gaining up to 18 months of paid work experience during their degree.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1:
Take Principles of Economics, Math for Business, and Quantitative Reasoning. Begin building writing and communication skills.
Year 2:
Progress to Intermediate Economics, Statistical Analysis, and possible early co-op experiences. You’ll start applying theory to business and social contexts.
Year 3:
Specialize through electives like Public Economics, Labor Economics, or Health Policy. Participate in a second co-op placement or research internship.
Year 4:
Conclude with a capstone or advanced electives in applied economics. You’ll graduate with academic depth and valuable job experience.
Focus areas: Real-world application, interdisciplinary study, experiential learning
Learning outcomes: Transition smoothly from classroom to career with confidence
Professional alignment: Strong preparation for business, government, or nonprofit work
Reputation: Drexel ranks among the top co-op programs in the U.S. and offers a STEM-designated economics track
Drexel’s Economics BA stands out with its world-leading cooperative education (co-op) model, which lets students alternate between academic terms and multiple six-month paid work experiences—totaling up to 18 months before graduation.
Here’s what makes the Drexel Economics experience truly immersive:
Drexel Co‑op Program: Alternate studies with up to three six-month full-time paid work placements, gaining real professional experience and often securing full-time offers. Over 94% of business undergrads take part.
Digital Tools & Labs: Work with Bloomberg terminals and financial databases, and gain analytical skills using industry-standard software during co-op and classroom instruction.
Business Consulting Projects: Collaborate through the Dornsife Office to provide real-world business solutions for startups, nonprofits, and established companies.
Competitions & Simulations: Test your knowledge in case competitions, financial simulations, and entrepreneurial ventures—including the Dragon Fund portfolio experience.
Global Co-op and Residencies: Gain international exposure through co-op abroad, global consulting residencies, and immersive study options.
STAR Scholars Research: First-year students can engage in faculty-led research projects, building early research experience and mentorship.
By integrating academic learning with deeply professional and global experiences, Drexel graduates are workplace-ready with strong networks, polished skills, and proven accomplishments.
Drexel’s Economics graduates typically pursue careers as economic analysts, financial consultants, market researchers, and policy advisors, benefiting from Drexel’s experiential learning focus.
Drexel’s Cooperative Education Program (Co-op) offers extensive paid internships integrated with coursework.
About 88% of graduates find employment or continue education within six months, with average starting salaries near $60,000.
Strong ties with Philadelphia’s business and government sectors provide broad internship and job options.
Accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education, ensuring quality.
Alumni work for companies like Comcast, PECO Energy, and consulting firms.
Further Academic Progression:
Students may continue studies in economics, business, finance, or public policy, with Drexel offering flexible graduate programs and certificates.
Letters of Recommendation Required per Common App: likely one or two recommendations (not program specific).Common App + Essays Common App plus Drexel-specific writing supplement and, if applicable, portfolio (for Westphal majors).Prerequisite High School Coursework At least three years math (Algebra I+II, Geometry). Recommended science (lab), strong English writing background.Economist – Analyze economic data and trends to advise government agencies private corporations or consulting firms on policy markets or business strategyInvestment Banking Analyst – Support capital raising mergers and acquisitions and financial transactions by building detailed financial models and conducting valuations at investment banksData Analyst or Data Scientist – Use programming languages like Python R and SQL and statistical techniques to analyze large datasets and provide actionable insights for business or policy decisionsActuary – Combine economics statistics and mathematics to assess and manage financial risks for insurance companies pension funds and financial service firmsManagement Consultant – Advise organizations across industries on operational efficiency market entry and strategic challenges to improve overall performanceFinancial Analyst – Evaluate company financial statements market conditions and investment opportunities to guide corporate finance portfolio management or banking decisionsPolicy Analyst – Research and assess public policies related to economics labor health or education for think tanks NGOs or government agenciesQuantitative Analyst or Econometrician – Apply advanced quantitative methods and econometric models to forecast economic outcomes and guide investment or policy decisionsCertified Public Accountant CPA – Provide auditing tax planning and financial consulting services combine economic understanding with regulatory compliance in accounting firms or corporationsEconomic Researcher – Conduct academic or applied research for universities government bodies like the Federal Reserve or Bureau of Labor Statistics or international organizationsMarketing Analyst – Analyze consumer data and market trends to optimize pricing strategies product launches and promotional campaigns for corporationsFinancial Risk Analyst – Identify and quantify financial risks in banking insurance or corporate finance to develop risk mitigation strategiesInternational Development Specialist – Work on economic development projects focused on poverty reduction trade or policy reform for international agencies like USAID or the World BankFederal Reserve Analyst or Central Banker – Support monetary policy economic research and financial regulation to promote economic stability and growth at regional Federal Reserve Banks or the Board of GovernorsEntrepreneur or Startup Founder – Leverage economic principles to build businesses especially in sectors like fintech healthtech or analytics-driven platforms
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.
Drexel University
