The college, which joins Drew's existing College of Liberal Arts, Caspersen School of Graduate Studies, and Drew Theological School, aims to expand access to affordable education across different stages of students' academic careers, from high school through professional development and advanced degrees.
The initiative comes as higher education faces declining public confidence and rising costs, alongside rapid changes in workplace skill requirements.
"We're building a radically different school – one cohort at a time," said Dr. Hilary L. Link, Drew's president. "We will unleash the power of individual purpose by driving the future of learning through the use of ever-evolving enabling technologies."
The college will launch its first cohort in spring 2026 with 12-15 current Drew students. These students will dedicate half their course schedule to designing cross-disciplinary programs focused on real-world problem solving through mentorship and practical engagement.
Link said the model emphasizes "complex problem solving, applied creativity, and building personal resilience, providing students the flexibility to build the degree that is right for them and their futures."
The Milken Institute has invited Drew to join its Future of: Education and Workforce Initiative as a strategic partner. The year-long collaboration will examine higher education's evolving landscape through a future-focused approach.
