Philadelphia-Area Schools II: Drexel University

Drexel University may not be as well-known nationally as its next-door neighbor, the Ivy League University of Pennsylvania (profiled here). However, Drexel has been growing vibrantly in its physical plant, enrollment, and endowment. The school has really strengthened itself in the area of professional education and features a co-op/internship program that blends college education with work experience. And like Penn, Drexel enjoys a spectacular view of Center City (downtown) Philadelphia, to the east.

Once on the campus, it almost looks like a venue for Harry Potter and his Hogwarts buddies, with Drexel's ubiquitous mascot, the Dragon...

Like virtually all campuses, Drexel features a mix of old and new buildings. A prominent, though not necessarily attractive, structure is University Crossings, a housing facility...

On the newer side, a building seemingly nearing completion is the Papadakis Integrated Sciences Building. In addition to its interesting exterior, the PISB will feature a "Bio Wall," which is said to enhance energy efficiency and air quality (see here and here).

Another building in the finishing stages with a funky design is the LeBow College of Business...

Finally, we have Drexel's Earle Mack School of Law, on busy Market Street...

The Law School, which was established in 2006, will soon implement an option for students to obtain their law degree in two years, along with the traditional three-year law curriculum. The explanation of the two-year option on the Drexel Law webpage fits with the university's aforementioned work/career orientation: "You can begin practicing law sooner. And you’ll be a step ahead on your career path."