Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science
The Vibe Check
Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science feels like a tight-knit, mission-driven family rather than a sprawling institution. With a small enrollment of just 233 students, the campus exudes an intimate, supportive atmosphere where everyone knows each other's names. There's a palpable sense of purpose and community, fueled by a shared commitment to serving underserved populations.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Optional
This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
CDU offers a focused, hands-on education with a strong emphasis on the health professions and biomedical sciences. The university's small size fosters close mentorship from faculty who are deeply invested in student success. Students gain practical research and clinical experience through partnerships with nearby hospitals and community health centers, preparing them for impactful careers.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Los Angeles
Students can take advantage of Los Angeles's endless entertainment, cultural, and culinary options, from concerts at the Hollywood Bowl to exploring the diverse food scenes in Koreatown and Boyle Heights. Outdoor enthusiasts can easily escape to nearby beaches, hiking trails in the Santa Monica Mountains, or Griffith Park. The campus's location provides a unique blend of a tight-knit academic community with access to a world-class metropolis.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($83,438):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in the Willowbrook neighborhood of Los Angeles and maintains its own campus safety department. While the surrounding area requires standard urban awareness, the university itself is a secure and focused academic enclave.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Extremely focused curriculum with a mission to address health disparities.
- ✓ Personalized attention due to a very low student-to-faculty ratio.
- ✓ Strong graduate outcomes with a 10-year median earnings of $83,438.
- ✓ Located in Los Angeles, offering access to a vast healthcare network.
Cons
- ✗ Limited academic offerings outside of health professions and biology.
- ✗ The small, specialized campus may not offer a traditional 'college town' experience.
- ✗ Extracurricular and social options are more limited compared to larger universities.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Charles R. Drew University is nationally recognized for its mission to train health professionals to serve underserved communities. It is particularly known for its College of Medicine and its graduate programs in health sciences, with a strong legacy in training physicians and healthcare leaders. The university's focus on health equity and community-based care is a defining characteristic of its programs.
With an acceptance rate of 38.78%, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science is considered moderately selective. This rate suggests that while admission is competitive, the university is looking for more than just high stats; they seek applicants who are genuinely aligned with their mission. A strong academic record is important, but a demonstrated commitment to serving underserved communities is equally crucial.
Campus life is intimate, collaborative, and mission-focused due to the small enrollment of 233 students. Students often describe the environment as a close-knit professional community where peer support and faculty mentorship are central to the experience. While traditional undergraduate social activities are limited, the focus is on academic collaboration and preparation for a career in healthcare.
Yes, the university presents a compelling financial value. With a tuition of $18,933 and a 10-year median earnings figure of $83,438, the return on investment is strong, particularly for a degree in a high-demand field like healthcare. The combination of affordable tuition, financial aid availability, and excellent post-graduation outcomes makes it a worthwhile investment for the right student.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1966
- Type Private
- Setting Suburban
- Undergrad 319
- In-State Tuition $18,933
- Zip Code 90059
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an in-state and out-of-state tuition of $18,933, CDU offers exceptional value, especially for a private university focused on high-demand fields. The 10-year median earnings of $83,438 indicate a strong return on investment for graduates entering the healthcare sector. Additionally, with a 31.3% Pell Grant rate, the university is committed to making education accessible to students from diverse economic backgrounds.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.