
Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science provides unique academic programs to expand the educational capacity of underrepresented youth to ensure their long-term success, health, and well-being. CDU currently offers Pre-K to 12th grade student’s pathway to careers in medicine, science, research and health through our various CDU Pathways Programs (formerly known as Pipeline Programs) which include:
- Saturday Science Academy II
- Public Health Professions Pathways Program (PHPP)
- Pathways to Health Careers (PHCA)
- CDU MedSimulations
- CDU Community STEMM Labs
- Los Angeles Pediatric Society (LAPS)
- CDU 3-Year Bachelor’s Program
- The Junior White Coat Ceremony
All of the programs encourage students to become dedicated leaders in their field who strive to address social injustice, health inequities and disparities in underserved communities. CDU Pathways and School Partnership Programs provide mentorship and inspirational experiences that form a foundation for minority youth to succeed and strengthen their academic skills.
CDU’s Pipeline Programs have been preparing underrepresented PK-12th-grade students for careers in science and healthcare through an engaging curriculum and hands-on STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) activities for over 30 years. The curriculum, aligned with California’s Common Core Math and Next Generation Science Standards, deepens and sustains student interest in science and health education. Students are introduced to human anatomy, physiology, math, engineering, physical science, plant life, mental health, public health and marine biology in learning intensive programs. Programs are held on the campus of Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science and in various communities throughout South Los Angeles. This broad offering motivates students toward a STEMM-education and career.
Pipeline Alumni Project: Reconnecting with Generations of SSA II Alumni
CDU Pathways and School Partnership Programs is excited to announce the launch of the Pipeline Alumni Project, a dedicated effort to reconnect with over 1,500 alumni who participated in Saturday Science Academy II (SSA II) between 1990 and 2017. By reconnecting with our alumni, we aim to strengthen the Pipeline network, create opportunities for continued engagement, and share your stories to inspire future generations of students.
Help Us Reconnect!
We are actively searching for our alumni. If you or a loved one participated in the SSA II program, specifically between 1990 and 2017, we encourage you to reach out and share your story.
CDU Pathways and School Partnership Programs Alumni Newsletters
Welcome to the CDU Pathways and School Partnership Programs Alumni Newsletter—a hub for connecting, inspiring, and celebrating our collective achievements. Stay tuned for success stories, exclusive updates, and opportunities to keep our vibrant community thriving.

- Community
- CDU Mobile Street Medicine Program
- APLA Health
- Community Health Worker Academy (CHWA)
- Drew CARES
- Health Equity
- Good News Radio
- CDU Pathways and School Partnership Programs
- Pipeline Alumni Project: Reconnecting with Generations of SSA II Alumni
- Los Angeles Pediatric Society
- Public Health Professions Pathways Program (PHPP)
- Saturday Science Academy II
- Community STEMM Academy
- Pathways to Health Careers (PHCA)
- CDU Health Careers Opportunity Program (HCOP)
- CDU 3-Year Bachelor’s Program
- Community Health Youth Advocates (CHYA)
- The Junior White Coat Ceremony
- Meet the Pipeline Team