Overview of Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science
Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science (CDU) was established in 1966 in Los Angeles, California, United States, as a response to health disparities in underserved communities. As a private, minority-serving institution, CDU is recognized for its teaching-focused approach and community engagement within health sciences. The university maintains a moderately sized student body of just over 900 students (including undergraduate, graduate, and professional-level learners) and operates a single main campus in the Watts-Willowbrook area. Internationally, CDU is respected for its commitment to health equity, positioning itself as a unique force within global academic medicine.
CDU’s academic structure prioritizes medicine, nursing, public health, and biomedical sciences, with signature programs like the MD, Physician Assistant, and Masters of Public Health degrees. Its curriculum integrates hands-on clinical education, interprofessional collaboration, and a social justice lens. Research at CDU addresses pressing health disparities, with output in peer-reviewed journals and partnerships with institutions such as the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. The university is a member of national research consortia and recipients of major grants from the NIH and HRSA. Notably, CDU ranked first in California for the number of graduates practicing primary care in underserved areas (AAMC 2022).
Student life at CDU is shaped by diversity and a strong sense of community. The campus hosts numerous organizations that cater to both cultural interests and professional development, including chapters of the Student National Medical Association and the Latino Medical Student Association. Cultural events, wellness programs, and workshops foster a supportive and inclusive environment. On-campus housing prioritizes accessibility, while sports and recreational activities, such as intramural basketball and yoga, contribute to holistic student well-being. Support services, including academic advising and mental health resources, ensure students thrive outside the classroom as well.
CDU’s mission is to cultivate diverse health professionals dedicated to transforming the lives of underserved communities through excellence in education, research, patient care, and community engagement. The university’s vision centers on advancing health equity, innovation, and global citizenship while upholding principles of social justice and sustainability.
