About the school

The Graduate School at the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) is a distinguished institution that provides a dynamic and enriching educational environment for aspiring biomedical and health sciences scholars. Offering a wide array of master's and doctoral degree programmes, certificate programmes, and post-doctoral opportunities, MCW's Graduate School stands at the forefront of cutting-edge medical research and its application to improving public and community health.

At the heart of MCW's Graduate School is a commitment to developing a culture of innovation, discovery, and collaboration. Renowned faculty members are deeply invested in their research areas and serve as mentors and catalysts for the next generation of scientists, researchers, and healthcare leaders. The Graduate School's affiliation with MCW, the second-largest research institution in Wisconsin, ensures access to substantial resources, with faculty securing nearly $160 million annually for groundbreaking research.

Where is the school located?

The Medical College of Wisconsin’s Graduate School is in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Milwaukee is a culturally diverse city on the shores of Lake Michigan, known for its vibrant arts scene and sports culture. It offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty.

Life at the Graduate School

Life at MCW’s Graduate School is not confined to the classroom and laboratory; it extends into the vibrant and engaging surrounding community. The institution strongly emphasises community connections and partnerships, recognising that its impact should extend beyond healthcare and academia. Students can engage in various community initiatives and events, contributing to the health and vitality of the local and global community.

Additionally, the Graduate School fosters an environment of inclusivity and diversity, valuing partnerships with other academic and healthcare institutions, businesses, and community organisations. This commitment to diversity and inclusivity addresses health and social disparities and promotes social equity.

Moreover, the Graduate School hosts various events and discussions, such as Community Conversations and Coffee Conversations with Scientists, allowing students to engage with experts and explore the latest developments in science and medicine.

Additional benefits of studying at the Graduate School

Studying at MCW’s Graduate School offers numerous benefits that contribute to a well-rounded and impactful educational experience. The institution's cutting-edge facilities, such as the Health Research Centre, Medical Education Building, and the Hub for Collaborative Medicine, provide students with top-notch learning and clinical practice resources.

Furthermore, the campus houses various research centres and laboratories, allowing students to engage in biomedical research actively. This hands-on experience enriches their academic journey and equips them with valuable skills and knowledge that can be applied in their future careers.

The strategic location of the Medical College of Wisconsin within the Milwaukee Regional Medical Centre (MRMC) campus provides students with direct access to clinical settings and affiliated institutions like Froedtert Hospital and Children's Wisconsin. This proximity facilitates meaningful clinical exposure, enabling students to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world healthcare scenarios.

Admissions criteria

The admissions criteria for MCW’s Graduate School encompasses various aspects to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of applicants:

Application and Fee: Applicants must submit an online application and pay a $50 - $70 application fee, except those eligible for fee waivers

Transcripts: Official or unofficial transcripts from previous colleges/universities attended must be submitted

Grade Point Average (GPA): Although there is no strict GPA requirement, a GPA of 3.0 or above (on a 4.0 scale) is generally recommended

English Language Proficiency: International applicants who have not previously studied in a U.S.-based degree programme must submit English language proficiency test scores, such as:

Duolingo: Recommended score of 105 or higher

IELTS: Recommended score of 6.0 or higher

TOEFL: Recommended score of 100 or higher

Letters of Recommendation: Applicants must identify recommenders through the online application, who will receive instructions on submitting their letters

Applicants are encouraged to submit all required materials before their programme's priority application deadline to ensure a timely review of their application

Programme requirements may vary, so applicants should refer to programme-specific information on the school website for additional criteria.

Job placements

The Graduate School offers robust career services to empower graduate students and post-doctoral fellows to achieve their professional aspirations. Through personalised 1:1 career counselling sessions, students can explore their career options, set goals, make informed decisions, and enhance their job-seeking skills. The school also organises various career development workshops, providing valuable insights and practical knowledge.

Additionally, students can access the innovative Big Interview platform, which combines training and practice to refine interview techniques and boost confidence. Moreover, a curated list of recommended career development and management books is available through the Todd Wehr Library. These comprehensive services ensure that graduates are well-prepared to excel in diverse career paths and make informed choices about their professional futures.