Overview of the Medical College of Wisconsin
The Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW), established in 1893, is a private, research-intensive medical and graduate school located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States. As Wisconsin’s only private medical school, MCW has evolved from the Milwaukee Medical College to its current status as a comprehensive institution. The College serves over 1,600 students across its primary Milwaukee campus and regional campuses in Green Bay and Central Wisconsin. With approximately 1,650 faculty members and robust clinical affiliations, MCW is a cornerstone of health sciences education in the Midwest.
MCW’s academic strengths reside in medicine, biomedical sciences, pharmacy, and public health. Signature programs include its MD curriculum, innovative Pharmacy School, and master's and doctoral offerings in biomedical sciences. MCW emphasizes an immersive, interdisciplinary educational model with early clinical exposure, problem-based learning, and collaborative research. The institution ranks in the top third of U.S. medical schools for NIH funding, with over $300 million in annual research expenditures. Notably, MCW maintains active partnerships with major healthcare systems, participates in national clinical trials, and advances population health through its Center for Advancing Population Science.
Student life at MCW offers a dynamic blend of academic rigor and community engagement. More than 100 student organizations, ranging from specialty interest groups to diversity clubs, enrich campus culture. Dedicated support services promote student wellness and career development, while annual events, such as the Interprofessional Healthcare Symposium, foster interdisciplinary collaboration. The College champions diversity and inclusivity, welcoming students from all backgrounds and over 40 U.S. states. On-campus housing, access to fitness and recreation facilities, and active involvement in local arts, volunteering, and outreach projects further enhance the student experience.
MCW’s mission is to advance health through educational excellence, innovative research, and compassionate patient care, guided by values of equity, collaboration, and lifelong learning. The institution is committed to fostering impactful leaders and contributing solutions to global and community health challenges.
