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Southern California University of Health Sciences

Whittier, CA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

1911
Founded
Private university
Type
Special Focus Four-Year
Classification
President: John Scaringe

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Southern California University of Health Sciences

From its roots in chiropractic, SCUHS has blossomed into a diverse health sciences leader.

Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU) stands as a testament to pioneering education in health and wellness. Established in 1911 as the Los Angeles College of Chiropractic (LACC) by Dr. Charles Cale and his wife Linnie, the institution began humbly in their private residence with just three students. Its rapid growth saw it move to an opera house by 1912, boasting 113 students, quickly becoming a significant force in chiropractic education across California. This early leadership laid the groundwork for its future as an accredited and respected institution, being the only chiropractic college accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) in 1993.

Today, SCU is celebrated for its comprehensive approach to health sciences, offering a vibrant learning environment for aspiring practitioners. The university's evolution beyond its chiropractic roots is marked by its strategic reorganization between 1999 and 2000, embracing a broader vision as Southern California University of Health Sciences. This transformation included the addition of a College of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, signaling a commitment to integrative healthcare education.

Prospective students will find a dynamic academic landscape, with programs designed to meet the growing demand for diverse healthcare professionals. SCU's curriculum now spans a Master of Science in Medical Science, Master of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, and even Ayurvedic Practitioner Certificates, alongside its foundational chiropractic program. The university fosters an environment where traditional and modern medical sciences converge, preparing graduates to excel in a variety of healthcare settings and contribute meaningfully to the well-being of their communities. Located on a sprawling 38-acre campus in Whittier, California since 1981, SCU continues to expand its offerings and impact.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1911 as the Los Angeles College of Chiropractic (LACC) with an initial class of three students.
  • Achieved accreditation by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) in 1993, a unique distinction for a chiropractic college at the time.
  • Evolved into Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU) between 1999-2000 to house a wider array of health science programs, including a College of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.
  • Occupies a dedicated 38-acre campus in Whittier, California, since 1981.
  • Offers diverse advanced degrees, including a Doctor of Chiropractic, Master of Science in Medical Science, and Master of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine.
  • Pioneer in traditional medicine education, including Ayurvedic Practitioner Certificates.

Timeline

1911
Founded as Los Angeles College of Chiropractic (LACC) by Dr. Charles Cale and Linnie Cale.
1912
Moved to an opera house in Los Angeles, growing to 113 students.
1922
The Chiropractic Initiative Act passed, catalyzing the growth and acquisition of other chiropractic institutions.
1950
LACC moved its location to Glendale, California.
1971
Campus received a $3 million renovation following damage from the San Fernando earthquake.
1981
College moved to its current 38-acre campus in Whittier, California.
1993
LACC was first accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
1999
Reorganized into Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU) and added a College of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.
2020
Added a Master of Science in Medical Science program, Master of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, and Ayurvedic Practitioner Certificates.
🏛️
115 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

4 notable schools within Southern California University of Health Sciences

🏫

Los Angeles College of Chiropractic (LACC)

The founding chiropractic college of the university, continuing its legacy in chiropractic education.

🔬

Accelerated Sciences Division

A division focused on foundational sciences, supporting various health professions programs.

🏫

Physician Assistant Program

A dedicated program preparing students for careers as physician assistants.

🔬

Health Science Program

A broader program encompassing various health science disciplines within the university structure.

Leadership

John Scaringe
President
Tamara Rozhon
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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