A 60+ Year Learning Journey
Drew University is at the forefront of change in higher education and the reimagination of liberal arts education in the AI era.
President Hilary L. Link, PhD, has led the University in the creation of a modern Renaissance academy: an intergenerational learning community designed for people across all life stages. A place to explore, grow, and learn based on complex problem solving and intentional human relationship building. A new approach to education that centers on the learner’s life purpose, curiosity and individual agency.
Today, Drew offers educational opportunities to learners from age 6-60 and beyond through the Drew School, College of Liberal Arts, Caspersen School of Graduate Studies, Drew Theological School, new college, and Drew Empty Nester Semester™.
In 2025, Drew University launched a new college as a learning innovation hub to reimagine higher education by supporting students who seek individualized pathways enabled by emerging technologies and a curriculum grounded in personal purpose. The new college provides a protected space where Drew can continue to prototype, experiment and scale a new, affordable and accessible approach to learning for growing populations that are seeking it, while still maintaining its core academic offerings for traditional students.
The new college’s initial cohort of innovation scholars in the first prototype, a microcollege focused on individualized learning, are co-designing a degree-bearing program in real time while gaining knowledge and skills through hands-on experiences, complex problem solving, peer collaboration, and intentional faculty mentorship.
In the newly launched Drew School, in partnership with 2HR Learning, students in grades 1-8 receive personalized tutoring delivered through AI platforms, while also focusing on building the human skills that are ever-more-needed in today’s rapidly-evolving world.
Drew’s Empty Nester Semester™ provides 10 weeks of on-campus educational programming for individuals entering a new chapter of life, whether they have children leaving home, are facing a career transition, or are simply seeking new opportunities for learning and enrichment.
Drew continues to add professional development and upskilling opportunities for individuals in the workforce, offering individuals the ability to earn certificates and credentials necessary to thrive and advance in their careers.
Drew’s Evolution
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In 1867, Drew was founded as a seminary, welcoming its first class of 12 students seeking an innovative form of religious education.
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In 1928, Drew created the College of Liberal Arts to offer undergraduate degrees and lean into the liberal arts.
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In 1955, Drew began offering graduate degrees in the arts and sciences with the addition of the Caspersen School of Graduate Studies.
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In 1989, the CLA was at the forefront of the technological era and became the first school in the country to offer all students a laptop.
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In 2025, Drew is continuing its legacy of not only adapting to the changing landscape of higher education but leading the way with the creation of a new college.
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In 2026, The Drew School opens its doors to students in grades 1-8 as the first university affiliate partner of 2HR Learning.
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Today, Drew is continuing its legacy of not only adapting to the changing landscape of higher education, but leading the way.