Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science (CDU) in Los Angeles – one of four historically Black medical schools in the United States – has entered a formal agreement with Western University of Health Sciences (WesternU) in Pomona, California, that will open the door for CDU students to launch successful careers in podiatric medicine and surgery – a medical discipline focused on foot, ankle, and lower limb disorders.
The new partnership will provide CDU students with a streamlined admissions process into WesternU’s doctor of podiatric medicine degree program. Additionally, students who show interest in podiatric medicine can receive support services through the agreement well before they matriculate to WesternU. The agreement includes early advising, academic preparation, and targeted programming aimed at enhancing students’ readiness for a successful transition into podiatric medical school.
“This linkage program stands out among our growing number of academic partnerships,” said Jose Torres-Ruiz, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs at CDU. “It is a commitment to walk alongside our students as they pursue advanced health careers. We are proud to work with WesternU to expand access to podiatric medical education and foster broader representation within the healthcare workforce of the future.”
