Drexel University has earned recognition in two of the nation’s leading college rankings, with a focus on learning environments and student outcomes.

The Wall Street Journal, in partnership with College Pulse and Statista, ranked Drexel 54th among 400 institutions in its “2024 Best Colleges in the U.S.” list. In Pennsylvania, Drexel secured the 6th position and ranked 31st among private universities (excluding liberal arts schools). Additionally, Drexel was placed 37th among comprehensive research universities with R1 and R2 statuses. The university has held the “R1 Doctoral University: Very High Research Activity” designation from the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education since 2019.

In the U.S. News & World Report’s “2024 U.S. News Best Colleges,” Drexel claimed a spot in the top 100, securing the 98th rank out of 435 universities and ranking 50th among private universities. Drexel was further recognized as the 18th “Most Innovative” university. The university also earned recognition in two new categories: 17th place for “Best Academic Programs Learning Communities” and 22nd place for “Best Academic Programs Service Learning.”

These rankings have undergone revisions to prioritize measures related to post-graduation earning rates and salary impact. The Wall Street Journal rankings, in particular, have revamped their methodology to focus on “measuring outcomes, not inputs,” emphasizing metrics related to student outcomes in terms of salary impact and graduation rates alongside learning environments and diversity.

Drexel University’s success in these rankings aligns with its mission and Strategic Plan, emphasizing the provision of high-quality, accessible, experiential education aimed at supporting the long-term success of its graduates.