The Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) is a cornerstone of innovation and excellence in Milwaukee. Founded in 1893, we are a distinguished leader and innovator in the education and development of the next generation of physicians, scientists, pharmacists and health professionals; we discover and translate new knowledge in the biomedical and health sciences; we provide cutting-edge, collaborative patient care of the highest quality; and we improve the health of the communities we serve.
MCW has the third-largest private medical school in the nation. With a mission to be a national leader in health sciences, MCW is transforming the landscape of health.
“At MCW, our commitment to innovation and excellence drives everything we do,” says John R. Raymond Sr., MD, President and CEO of MCW. “We are dedicated to improving health outcomes through cutting-edge research, compassionate clinical care, and a deep engagement with the communities we serve.”
Generating New Knowledge That Can Change Everything
MCW is one of the top 100 research institutions in the United States out of 20,000, according to the National Science Foundation, and is the largest private research institution in Wisconsin. MCW’s scientists, physicians, and students collaborate tirelessly to ask the questions no one else is asking, fueling a continuous cycle of knowledge that shapes the future of health.
“Science is the driver of innovation and knowledge that can change everything,” emphasizes Dr. Raymond. “From how we define, diagnose, treat, and prevent disease to the methods we employ to improve our communities, MCW is at the forefront of groundbreaking research.”
MCW invested approximately $400 million in research, training and related purposes during fiscal year 2023, including conducting more than 3,800 research studies and clinical trials, and leading the most cancer and neuroscience clinical trials in the state. Additionally, MCW is among the top five percent worldwide in publishing new knowledge in clinical medicine.
MCW’s research expenditures (an important driver of activity and growth) and indirect and induced economic activity resulting from those expenditures totaled $826.3 million during fiscal year 2023. MCW’s research activities have a significant economic impact. Every dollar from external research funding generates eight dollars of economic impact.
MCW supports innovation through direct research conducted by faculty and students and collaborative partnerships across Wisconsin and the nation. MCW also connects with the community by providing incubator space and fostering relationships between the community and the university to develop and sustain new business start-ups in the region.
Advancing Health and the Economy
As the state’s largest private medical school, MCW plays a pivotal role in shaping the healthcare landscape, training more than 50% of the doctors practicing in Wisconsin today. Annually, MCW is estimated to have a nearly $6 billion direct operational economic impact on the United States’economy in fiscal 2023.
Statewide economic impact includes $246.1 million in tax revenue to communities and school districts across Wisconsin. Approximately 38,500 jobs were directly and indirectly supported by MCW in fiscal year 2023.
A Healthier World
MCW, comprising 1,815 physicians and 1,860 advanced practice providers, is Wisconsin’s most prominent medical care provider. Nearly 60% of MCW graduates remain to practice in Wisconsin, collectively contributing $19.5 billion in economic impact to the state’s economy. Quite simply, if you receive healthcare in the state of Wisconsin today, there is a good chance MCW supports your healthcare provider for primary medical or continuing education.
MCW’s vision, “Pioneering pathways to a healthier world,” encapsulates its dedication to excellence in education, research, patient care, and community engagement. The institution’s values – caring, collaborative, curious, inclusive, integrity, and respect – guide its efforts to make a lasting impact on the world.
“Together, we can build a healthier world,” says Dr. Raymond. “A student, an educator, a scientist, and a community leader – alone, they can do a lot of things, but together, the question isn’t what they can do, it’s what can’t they do.”
Enhancing Quality of Life
MCW makes vital contributions to the community. MCW invested more than $338 million in over 600 community partnerships through the Advancing a Healthier Wisconsin Endowment. MCW faculty, staff, and students donate an estimated $27.1 million annually in contributions and services statewide. MCW’s community-based mission is unique among U.S. INNOVATION AND COLLABORATION AT THE HEART OF HEALTHCARE medical schools and demonstrates a solid commitment to addressing the root causes of health disparities, generating substantial social impact.
“Our mission is to provide cutting-edge, collaborative patient care of the highest quality,” says Dr. Raymond. “We strive for excellence in everything we do, and our patients are at the heart of our efforts.”
Driving Discovery
MCW’s dedication to innovation and discovery drives its impact on healthcare and the community. With a robust research infrastructure, MCW is a leader in translating scientific discoveries into practical applications that benefit patients and society. MCW’s pioneering research has led to breakthroughs in cancer treatment, cardiovascular disease, neuroscience, and many other fields.
MCW’s clinicians and scientists also advance innovation through new technologies. Over the past decade, MCW faculty have secured 228 patents and 86 licenses and have started 22 new companies.
“MCW is more than an institution; it’s a community dedicated to making a difference,” says Adrienne Mitchell, Chief People Officer. “Every day, we are inspired by the possibilities of what we can achieve together.”
Knowledge Changing Life
MCW’s tagline, “Knowledge Changing Life,” reflects its profound impacton the world. Through pioneering research, innovative education, and compassionate care, MCW is transforming lives and shaping the future of health.
“With a legacy of excellence and a commitment to innovation, the Medical College of Wisconsin is leading the way in creating a healthier world,” says Dr. Raymond. “MCW remains at the forefront of medical education, research, and patient care – changing lives through knowledge and collaboration.”
With a rich history and a bold vision for the future, MCW transforms lives through knowledge, compassion, and collaboration. As the institution continues to pioneer pathways to a healthier world, it remains steadfast in its commitment to making a lasting impact on the world – one patient, one student, one discovery at a time.
