Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science
Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science is a private nonprofit university in Los Angeles, CA ranked #1606 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of C+, enrolling about 282 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 38.7%. Students most often pursue Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing and Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions.
Academically, students benefit from a 4:1 student-faculty ratio, 50.0% first-year retention, and 29.6% six-year graduation. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.
Families typically invest $35,558, about $18,560 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -57.2%, roughly 142.5 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $60,939. That's about $17,251 higher than national results. It's a compelling fit for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore and students looking for meaningful faculty access.
Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science in Los Angeles, California is a graduate health sciences institution—not Drew University in Madison, New Jersey. This school's acceptance rate of 38.7%, and tuition of $23,000 are listed below for reference. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Who is Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science graduates 29.6% of students within six years and keeps 50.0% of first-year students. Affordability earns a C+ compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $23,000 |
| Books and Supplies | $2,328 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | Not reported |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | Not reported |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $39,834 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 53.6% of Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science students receive Pell Grants — well above the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $35,636 to $37,834 depending on family income. Use Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $33,075/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $37,834/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $60,939
- 10-Year Median Earnings $60,939
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $14,750
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 46.4%
- Employment Rate 89.1%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science graduates earn $60,939 median, the -57.2% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading Not reported
- SAT Math Not reported
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite Not reported
- SAT & ACTNot required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 282
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 50.0%
- Graduation Rate 29.6%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 4:1
How to Get Into Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 38.7%, Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science is moderately selective. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science accepts 38.7% of applicants, making it moderately selective. Focus on strong academics, meaningful extracurriculars, and compelling essays to stand out.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science undergraduates. Biology, General, Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing, and Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions draw the most students.
- Biology, General 53.8%
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 38.5%
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions 7.7%
- Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services 0.0%
- Health/Medical Preparatory Programs 0.0%
- Public Health 0.0%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $165,204
- 2. Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions $97,445
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree) $144,392
- 2. Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degree) $140,558
- 3. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Graduate/Professional Certificate) $138,199
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Health/Medical Preparatory Programs (Post-Baccalaureate Certificate) $106,698
- 5. Public Health (Master's Degree) $90,781
- 6. Biology, General (Master's Degree) $29,508
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing grads earn $165,204—70% more than Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions ($97,445). Graduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing programs lead with $144,392 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree, 155 graduates)
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Graduate/Professional Certificate, 28 graduates)
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Associate's Degree, 24 graduates)
- Biology, General (Master's Degree, 23 graduates)
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degree, 23 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (4 programs)â–¼
- Biology, General
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Public Health
Online Master's Degrees (4 programs)â–¼
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Biology, General
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Public Health
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (2 programs)â–¼
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Health/Medical Preparatory Programs
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (1 program)â–¼
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 282
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 36.9%
- Female Students 63.1%
- Caucasian 2.8%
- Asian 7.8%
- Hispanic 17.7%
- Black 34.0%
- Pell Grant Recipients 53.6%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science has a diverse student body, with 2.8% identifying as White. Women make up 63.1% of undergraduates. 53.6% of students receive Pell Grants, well above the national average, indicating strong support for low-income students.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with -57.2% ROI. Ranked #1606 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $35,558 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $60,939 median earnings. With 29.6% graduating within six years and 50.0% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science's Positioning
With a C+ grade and #1606 ranking, Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $35,558 annually, Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 50.0% retention rate suggests students value this environment.
Who Benefits Most: Students who thrive in smaller, more intimate academic settings. Those seeking specific programs or values-based education aligned with the institution's mission. Students who receive merit scholarships that bring costs below $24,891 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The -57.2% ROI and $60,939 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $25,558+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science ranks #1606 of 6101 institutions, with 1286 schools achieving higher ROI. For students offered substantial merit aid or seeking specific programs unavailable at public universities, the value proposition strengthens significantly.
Key Takeaways
- 29.6% six-year graduation rate sits 32.9 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 50.0% first-year retention is 26.8 points below the national norm of 76.8%.
- -57.2% return on investment is 142.5 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $60,939 run about 39% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $35,558 is roughly $18,161 higher than the national median of $17,397.
Helpfulness for Students
- 4:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 50.0% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 89.1% employment rate within three years sits 20.9 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $35,558 is about $18,161 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science is a private nonprofit university based in Los Angeles, CA and earns a C+ overall grade. It is currently ranked #1606 nationally Category results include Completion (C-), Support (B-), Career Outcomes (A-), and Affordability (C+).
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
50.0% of learners come back after year one while 29.6% complete the degree within six years. EDsmart calculates the ROI at -57.2%, offering a quick value checkpoint.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $35,558 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $39,834.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $4,276 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $14,750 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 53.6% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Median earnings come in near $60,939 six years after enrollment. This is roughly 39% above typical U.S. college outcomes.
Employment outcomes report about 89.1% of alumni working within three years.
Plan around an ROI of about -57.2% according to the Scorecard data.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
38.7% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science's acceptance rate?
Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science's acceptance rate is 38.7%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science cost?
At Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science, listed tuition and fees are $23,000 per year, and the average net price after aid is $35,558. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science's ranking?
Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science ranks #1606 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of C+, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science's graduation rate?
At Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science, the six-year graduation rate is 29.6%, and first-year retention is 50.0%.
What are Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science's job outcomes?
Graduates of Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science report median earnings of $60,939 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science's student population?
Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science enrolls about 282 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address Los Angeles, CA 90059
- Website www.cdrewu.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationWestern Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission (WASCSR)
- Endowment$107.4M