West Coast Ultrasound Institute
Tuition per year
$19,040
$41,126 with room and board
Peer median $18,677
Undergraduates
2,447
Student-faculty ratio 21:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
61.5%
4-year; 6-year rate 61.5%
Peer median 47.8%
“Peers” are all 221 private health professions schools in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Smith Chason College is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and the holistic development of its students. Located in a vibrant urban area, the college provides a dynamic environment that fosters both intellectual and personal growth. The institution is dedicated to offering a diverse range of programs, ensuring that students can find their passion and pursue their academic interests. With a strong emphasis on liberal arts education, Smith Chason College encourages critical thinking, creativity, and effective communication, preparing graduates for success in various fields.
The college boasts modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas that enhance the student experience. The faculty at Smith Chason College is composed of highly qualified professionals who are not only experts in their fields but also dedicated mentors who support students' academic and professional journeys. The school's vibrant campus culture is enriched by various extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations that promote community engagement and leadership development. Additionally, the college's strong network of alumni and industry connections provides students with valuable internship and employment opportunities, ensuring they are well-prepared to enter the workforce upon graduation.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Smith Chason College
Smith Chason College has demonstrated notable trends in tuition fees, student enrollment, and gender ratios over the years. One of the most significant changes is in the tuition fees for undergraduate students. From 2014 to 2023, the tuition for in-state and out-of-state students decreased from $32,900 to $18,820, representing a substantial reduction of approximately 43%. This decrease may indicate the college's efforts to make education more affordable and could be a strategic move to attract more students amid rising education costs nationwide.
The enrollment numbers reflect a positive trend as well. The number of undergraduate students rose dramatically from 796 in 2014 to 1,640 in 2023. This increase of over 100% suggests that the college is successfully appealing to a larger demographic, possibly due to its competitive tuition rates and effective recruitment strategies.
Moreover, the gender composition among undergraduate students has also shifted. The male-to-female ratio in 2023 showed that men comprised about 19.8% of the undergraduate population, while women accounted for 80.2%. This marks a significant increase in female enrollment compared to previous years, where the ratio was more balanced. This trend may reflect broader societal shifts towards increased participation of women in higher education.
In terms of student retention, the college achieved a retention rate of approximately 83.3% in 2023, a commendable figure that indicates a strong commitment to student satisfaction and support. Retention rates are crucial for institutions as they directly impact graduation rates and institutional reputation.
Overall, the data from Smith Chason College suggests a college that is adapting to the needs of its students by lowering tuition and increasing enrollment while also fostering a supportive environment that retains a high percentage of its students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- Los Angeles, about 7 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), about 10 mi
- Academic calendar
- Quarter
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Myra Chason (CEO/President)
- Phone
- 3102895123
- City
- Los Angeles, California
- Address
- 3580 Wilshire Blvd., 4th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90010
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Trends in Health-Related Programs
In 2023, the data from Smith Chason College reveals notable trends in the graduation rates of health-related programs, particularly in Diagnostic Medical Sonography and Cardiovascular Technology. The most striking figure is the number of graduates receiving an associate degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography, with a total of 154 graduates. This suggests a strong interest in the field, which is crucial given the increasing demand for diagnostic imaging professionals in healthcare settings.
Conversely, the Bachelor’s degree in Cardiovascular Technology produced 17 graduates, highlighting a significant difference in the educational pathways chosen by students in these two disciplines. Interestingly, there were no international students graduating in any of the degree categories within these programs, which might indicate a need for improved recruitment efforts or the impact of global circumstances on international enrollment in healthcare education.
Moreover, the lack of graduates in the Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technology and Registered Nursing programs raises questions about student interest and the availability of these programs. It might reflect a broader trend in healthcare education where students are gravitating towards programs with more defined career paths or higher immediate employment opportunities.
Overall, the data underscores the importance of targeted strategies to enhance program visibility and attract diverse student populations, particularly in the face of ongoing workforce shortages in the healthcare sector. As the industry evolves, institutions need to adapt their offerings to align with student interests and labor market demands, ensuring that they prepare graduates for the challenges ahead.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cardiovascular Technology/Technologist. | $57,650-$79,306 | ||
| Diagnostic Medical Sonography/Sonographer and Ultrasound Technician. | $57,650-$79,306 | ||
| Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technology/Technician. | $57,650-$79,306 | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | - |
Students
2,447 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 16:84
- Continuing undergraduates 2,051
- First-year undergraduates 149
- Transfers and others 247
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,447)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Smith Chason College in 2023
The student composition at Smith Chason College for 2023 reveals a diverse yet imbalanced gender distribution across different categories of students. The data indicates that among the first-year undergraduate students, a significant majority, 72.3%, are female, while only 27.7% are male. This trend continues among the undergraduate juniors, where females constitute an impressive 81.9% of the population. The noticeable disparity in gender ratios raises questions about the factors influencing these enrollment patterns, particularly among female students who seem to dominate the undergraduate demographic.
In terms of racial and ethnic diversity, the data reflects a rich tapestry of backgrounds, although specific details are limited. The first-year undergraduate segment shows that among 264 students, there are 49 White students, which represents approximately 18.6% of that subgroup. This raises considerations about the representation of various ethnic groups within the college and highlights the need for targeted initiatives to ensure equitable access and support for all students, regardless of their backgrounds.
Overall, while Smith Chason College is experiencing a surge in female enrollment, the gender imbalance, particularly in the junior category, warrants further investigation. Understanding the underlying causes can help the institution implement strategies to foster a more balanced and inclusive environment that supports the success of all students. Additionally, enhancing racial and ethnic diversity should remain a priority to promote a holistic educational experience.
Analysis of Age Distribution Among Students at Smith Chason College in 2023
The age composition of students at Smith Chason College reveals intriguing insights into the demographic trends of higher education. A significant proportion of the students fall within the 22-24 and 25-29 age brackets, with undergraduate females making up a large majority in these categories. Specifically, there are 241 undergraduate females aged 22-24 and 332 aged 25-29, indicating a strong presence of non-traditional students, likely balancing studies with other life commitments.
Interestingly, the data shows no male graduate students, which raises questions about gender representation in advanced studies at the institution. In contrast, there is a notable presence of undergraduate males, particularly in the younger age groups, such as 22 in the 20-21 category and 40 in the 22-24 category, suggesting that younger males are engaging with undergraduate education more actively.
The age group of 30-34 also shows a healthy number of both males and females, with 53 males and 179 females enrolled. This trend aligns with the increasing number of adult learners pursuing higher education, a phenomenon that's been documented across various institutions.
Moreover, the data indicates a declining number of students as age increases, particularly evident in the 50-64 group, which reflects broader trends in higher education where older populations tend to be less represented. This could be due to various factors, including career commitments and life stage considerations.
Overall, the demographic trends at Smith Chason College highlight the evolving landscape of education, particularly the increasing participation of women in higher education and the challenges related to attracting older students. These patterns could inform future institutional strategies aimed at enhancing diversity and inclusivity among the student body.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 221 private health professions schools in the U.S.
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Commentary on International Student Enrollment Trends
The data concerning international student enrollment at Smith Chason College remains unavailable, which presents a challenge in analyzing specific trends or patterns within the institution. However, it is crucial to recognize the growing importance of international students in higher education across the United States.
In recent years, many colleges and universities have reported an increase in international student enrollment, contributing significantly to the diversity and cultural richness of the academic environment. This trend is often driven by factors such as globalized job markets, the pursuit of quality education, and the desire for cultural exchange.
Moreover, international students not only enhance the learning experience for domestic students but also play a vital role in the financial stability of educational institutions. Their tuition fees often contribute substantially to the overall budget, supporting various programs and services offered by colleges.
In light of recent geopolitical changes and the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, many institutions are re-evaluating their strategies to attract and retain international students. As countries seek to recover and rebuild their international education sectors, it is essential for colleges to adapt and innovate in their outreach and support services.
Overall, while specific enrollment data for Smith Chason College is currently unavailable, the broader context emphasizes the critical role of international students in shaping the future of higher education in the United States. Continued efforts to foster an inclusive and supportive environment will be vital for sustaining this integral segment of the academic community.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$41,126
- Undergraduate tuition
- $19,040
- Room and board
- $22,086
Peer median tuition + room and board $30,010 · all 221 private health professions schools in the U.S.
Tuition rose -28% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 165%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$45.2M
Expenses$43.8M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 221 private health professions schools in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of Southern CaliforniaLos Angeles · 3.0 mi
U.S. News #27
-
Occidental CollegeLos Angeles · 6.9 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
University of California-Los AngelesLos Angeles · 8.0 mi
U.S. News #20
-
California Institute of TechnologyPasadena · 11.4 mi
U.S. News #5
-
Pomona CollegeClaremont · 33.8 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Claremont McKenna CollegeClaremont · 34.0 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Scripps CollegeClaremont · 34.0 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
Harvey Mudd CollegeClaremont · 34.1 mi
Liberal Arts #8
-
University of California-IrvineIrvine · 38.9 mi
U.S. News #34
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Smith Chason College:
-
University of California-Los Angeles - Ranked 15th in the 2024 US News rankings, UCLA is known for its strong research programs and diverse student body.
-
California Institute of Technology - With a rank of 7, Caltech is renowned for its engineering and science programs and has a strong emphasis on research and innovation.
-
University of Southern California - USC is ranked 28th and offers a comprehensive education with a variety of programs, particularly in film, business, and the arts.
-
Claremont McKenna College - This liberal arts college is ranked 11th and is known for its strong emphasis on economics and government.
-
Pomona College - Ranked 4th, Pomona is another prestigious liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics and beautiful campus.
-
Harvey Mudd College - With a rank of 16, Harvey Mudd focuses on science and engineering and is known for its collaborative and rigorous academic environment.
These institutions offer a range of educational opportunities and are well-respected in their respective fields.
Peer median 0.0 · all 221 private health professions schools in the U.S.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Smith Chason College
The crime statistics at Smith Chason College over the years reveal a predominantly safe environment for students. Between 2013 and 2023, the data indicates sporadic incidents, with only a few reports of offenses. The highest recorded crime rate occurred in 2014, with a rate of 6.28 per 1000 students, which corresponds to five incidents. This spike may have raised concerns at the time, but it appears to be an anomaly, as the college subsequently reported either very low or no incidents in the following years.
Notably, from 2016 to 2022, the college reported zero incidents of crime, showcasing an impressive decline in criminal activity on campus. The solitary incident in 2021, which resulted in an average crime rate of 1.24 per 1000 students, suggests that the college's measures to enhance safety and security have been effective.
The absence of serious offenses, such as robbery, assault, or substance-related crimes in recent years, reflects positively on the college's community environment. The data indicates a focus on creating a safe educational atmosphere, which is essential for student well-being and academic success.
Overall, the consistent drop in crime rates suggests that Smith Chason College has effectively maintained a secure campus. Continued vigilance and proactive measures will further ensure student safety and foster a positive learning environment. For more information on how crime rates are calculated, please refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.