Drexel History Resources
Historical Overview
The school opened its doors in 1892 as the Drexel Institute of Art, Science, and
Industry. Founded by financier Anthony Joseph Drexel, the Institute was established to
improve employment opportunities for both men and women by providing higher education
that emphasized technical and vocational training. Drexel did not offer degree granting
programs like a traditional school of higher learning until 1914, when the Institute
first awarded the bachelor of science degree in engineering. The first graduate degrees
were offered in 1931 in the School of Home Economics. The school name was officially
shortened to the Drexel Institute of Technology in 1936. In 1969, school officials
requested university status from the state of Pennsylvania. In 1970, Drexel Institute
of Technology became Drexel University.
Resources On Drexel History
Historical Essays
These historical essays by former Drexel Archivist Stephen Janick originally
appeared in the newsletter Library News:
External Resources