Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science in California, one of four historically Black medical schools in the country, has signed a memorandum of understanding with Santa Monica College that will expand access to healthcare educational opportunities for local community college students.
Over the next five years, the agreement will allow students from Santa Monica College to seamlessly transfer to undergraduate and certificate programs at Charles R. Drew University. Upon completion of their associate’s degree from Santa Monica College, students can transfer into the HBCU’s bachelor’s degree programs in biomedical sciences, public health, and psychology, as well as certificate programs in computed tomography, mammography, and sonography.
“This partnership reflects CDU’s dedication to supporting students in achieving their academic and professional goals,” said Jose A. Torres-Ruiz, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs at Charles R. Drew University. “By combining resources and expertise, we aim to empower a new generation of healthcare professionals to address health disparities and serve under-resourced communities.”