Drexel's long tradition in the field of experiential education has been extended into its master's programs in the College of Engineering. The Graduate Co-op Program (GCP) option is available to all full-time MS students in the electrical and computer engineering. Students enrolled in these graduate programs may select this option to gain work experience directly related to their career goals. The program enables you to accept a paid position in your career field and receive academic credit. Employment opportunities are available each January, April, June, and September, coinciding with the start of each term.

The GCP program does not guarantee jobs. It is a market driven process, both for students and as employers. GCP provides the tools and contacts, you get the job on your own merits, qualifications and skills.

Eligibility

Participation in GCP is optional and a minimum of 24 graduate credits and a GPA of 3.0 is required for admission to the program. Due to USCIS requirements, international students are required to complete three terms as a full-time student before becoming eligible to participate.

International students, whose primary language is not English, must also demonstrate business-usage English proficiency to the Graduate Co-op Coordinator. If you are an international student, full-time employment as a part of the program is considered an integral part of your education process; therefore, you will retain your student status during the six month employment period.

Credits

When you receive and accept an employment offer, you will enroll in a three-credit GCP course for each three month period of your employment. Before your six-month employment opportunity begins, you will be assigned a faculty advisor who will work with you throughout the GCP experience. Although you will be enrolled in a course, you will not attend class. Instead, you will be employed in a full-time position and converse with your faculty advisor to develop a project that will reflect your work experience. At the end of your six-month assignment you will receive a grade based on your approved project.

Locations

Although the Graduate Co-op Program does not limit students to working in Philadelphia, the Philadelphia Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) has been designated as one of the top ten job markets in the United States. The Graduate Co-op Coordinator will work with you to identify appropriate employment opportunities, which can include jobs outside of the Philadelphia area.

Duration

The GCP experience lasts a full six-month period. If you are offered and accept an employment opportunity, you will work full-time ( usually 37.5 - 40 hours / week ) and are limited to taking only one additional course each academic term.

How to Apply

For details on how to apply and the latest information about the Graduate Co-op Program, please consult the web site of the Steinbright Career Development Center, which manages Drexel University's Co-op Education program. Please also contact us to consult with the ECE Department's graduate advisor regarding your academic and co-op plans.