| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Type: Private Medical School & Research Institution
Location: Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Founded: 1893
Total Enrollment: ~1,500+ students
Research Focus: Cancer, Neuroscience, Genomics, Cardiovascular Diseases
Accreditation: Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME)
Highly Ranked Medical School – Known for MD, Ph.D., and biomedical science programs.
Strong Research Focus – MCW receives over $300 million in research funding annually.
Multiple Campuses – Locations in Milwaukee, Green Bay, and Central Wisconsin.
Partnerships with Leading Hospitals – Froedtert Hospital, Children's Wisconsin, and VA Medical Center.
Innovative Medical Education – Personalized curriculum, clinical training, and research opportunities.
Diverse Student Community – Internationally recognized for inclusivity and diversity in healthcare.
Medical (MD) Programs:
Doctor of Medicine (MD)
MD/Ph.D. (Medical Scientist Training Program - MSTP)
MD/Master’s Dual Degree Programs (MPH, MBA, Bioethics)
Graduate (Master’s & Ph.D.) Programs:
Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences (Specializations: Cancer Biology, Neuroscience, Immunology)
M.S. in Medical Physiology
M.S. in Bioethics
M.S. in Precision Medicine
M.S. in Public Health (MPH)
M.S. in Clinical and Translational Science
Residency & Fellowship Programs:
Over 80 residency & fellowship programs in various specialties, including surgery, internal medicine, neurology, cardiology, and anesthesiology.
Ranked among the Top U.S. Medical Schools for Research & Primary Care (U.S. News & World Report)
Top 10% of Medical Schools in the U.S. for NIH Research Funding
One of the Largest Private Medical Schools in the U.S.
Recognized for Excellence in Cancer Research & Neuroscience
Saint Peter’s provides a supportive and collaborative environment with:
State-of-the-art research labs and simulation centers.
Student-run clinics for hands-on medical training.
Health & wellness programs, student organizations, and leadership opportunities.
Active medical community with frequent conferences, networking events, and workshops.
Location Advantage: MCW is in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, providing students with a mix of urban healthcare facilities, research opportunities, and a lower cost of living compared to other major cities.
Acceptance Rate: ~5-10% (Highly Competitive)
Application Requirements:
Undergraduate Degree (Premed Requirements Completed)
GPA: 3.5+ recommended
MCAT Score: ~510+ recommended
Clinical & Research Experience
Letters of Recommendation & Personal Statement
Application Process:
Apply via AMCAS (American Medical College Application Service).
Multiple Mini Interviews (MMI) for selected candidates.
International Students: MCW accepts international applicants but does not offer federal financial aid.
MCW is a leader in medical research with over $300 million in annual funding from organizations like NIH, CDC, and private grants. Students can engage in:
Biomedical Research – Work on cancer, genetics, neuroscience, and infectious diseases.
Clinical Trials & Translational Medicine – Opportunities to participate in groundbreaking clinical studies.
Residency Match Success – MCW students match in top hospitals across the U.S., including Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins, and Cleveland Clinic.
High-Quality Medical Education with Strong Residency Match Rates
Access to Leading Hospitals & Research Centers
Diverse Specializations & Dual-Degree Options
One of the Most Respected Private Medical Schools in the U.S.
MCW provides several Doctor of Medicine (MD) pathways, including:
Doctor of Medicine (MD) Program – A four-year program that integrates clinical training, research, and advanced medical education.
MD/Ph.D. (Medical Scientist Training Program - MSTP) – A combined MD and Ph.D. program designed for students interested in medical research and clinical practice.
MD/Master’s Dual Degree Programs – Offers students the opportunity to combine their medical degree with a Master’s in Public Health (MPH), Bioethics, or Business Administration (MBA).
Accelerated 3-Year MD Program – Available at the Green Bay and Central Wisconsin campuses, designed for students pursuing primary care and family medicine.
MCW offers a variety of graduate degrees in biomedical sciences, public health, and healthcare administration. These include:
Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences – A research-intensive program with specializations in cancer biology, neuroscience, immunology, pharmacology, and genetics.
M.S. in Medical Physiology – A one-year program preparing students for medical school or careers in health sciences.
M.S. in Bioethics – Focuses on ethical issues in healthcare, clinical practice, and research.
M.S. in Precision Medicine – Prepares students for careers in personalized medicine and genomics research.
M.S. in Public Health (MPH) – A professional degree focusing on epidemiology, health policy, and community health.
M.S. in Clinical and Translational Science – Designed for professionals looking to advance clinical research and healthcare innovation.
MCW offers over 80 residency and fellowship programs in collaboration with top hospitals such as Froedtert Hospital, Children’s Wisconsin, and the Milwaukee VA Medical Center. These programs provide specialized medical training in fields like:
Internal Medicine
Surgery (General, Cardiothoracic, Neurosurgery, etc.)
Pediatrics
Neurology & Neurosurgery
Anesthesiology
Radiology & Nuclear Medicine
Emergency Medicine
Pathology
Dermatology
Ophthalmology
MCW also provides Continuing Medical Education (CME) programs for healthcare professionals looking to stay updated on new medical advancements, research, and clinical techniques.
Courses include:
Advanced Surgical Training
Clinical Research Methods
Healthcare Leadership & Administration
Telemedicine & Digital Health
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
M.S. in Medical Physiology |
1 year |
$50,500 |
|
M.S. in Bioethics |
1 – 2 years |
$29,000 |
|
M.S. in Precision Medicine |
1 – 2 years |
$29,000 |
|
M.S. in Public Health (MPH) |
1 – 2 years |
$49,500 |
|
M.S. in Clinical and Translational Science |
1 – 2 years |
$30,000 |
|
M.S. in Anesthesia (Master of Science in Anesthesia - MSA) |
28 months |
$86,000 (total program cost) |
|
M.S. in Biostatistics |
1 – 2 years |
$30,000 |
|
M.S. in Pharmacology and Toxicology |
1 – 2 years |
$30,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences |
4 – 6 years |
$31,530 (Tuition Waivers Available) |
|
Ph.D. in Biochemistry |
4 – 6 years |
$31,530 (Funded for Most Students) |
|
Ph.D. in Biophysics |
4 – 6 years |
$31,530 (Full Funding for Most Students) |
|
Ph.D. in Cancer Biology |
4 – 6 years |
$31,530 (Fellowships Available) |
|
Ph.D. in Cell & Developmental Biology |
4 – 6 years |
$31,530 (RA/TA Positions Available) |
|
Ph.D. in Microbiology & Immunology |
4 – 6 years |
$31,530 (Scholarships Available) |
|
Ph.D. in Neuroscience |
4 – 6 years |
$31,530 (Full Tuition Support Available) |
|
Ph.D. in Pharmacology & Toxicology |
4 – 6 years |
$31,530 (Graduate Assistantships Offered) |
|
Ph.D. in Physiology |
4 – 6 years |
$31,530 (Tuition Waivers & Stipends) |
|
Ph.D. in Public & Community Health |
4 – 6 years |
$31,530 (Funding Opportunities Available) |
Highly Ranked Medical & Research Institution – Among the top U.S. medical schools with a strong reputation in biomedical sciences and clinical research.
State-of-the-Art Research Facilities – MCW receives $300M+ in research funding annually from NIH, CDC, and private organizations.
STEM-Designated Programs – International students can apply for up to 3 years of OPT work authorization after graduation.
Full Funding for Ph.D. Students – Most Ph.D. students receive tuition waivers + $30,000+ stipend per year.
Clinical & Residency Training Opportunities – MCW partners with Froedtert Hospital, Children’s Wisconsin, and Milwaukee VA Medical Center.
Cultural Diversity & Support for International Students – MCW hosts students from 50+ countries, providing visa assistance, mentorship, and student services.
Application Platforms:
MD Program: Apply through AMCAS (American Medical College Application Service).
Master’s & Ph.D. Programs: Apply through the MCW Graduate School Portal.
Application Deadlines:
Program |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|
|
MD (Doctor of Medicine) |
October 15 (via AMCAS) |
|
Master’s & Ph.D. Programs (Biomedical Sciences, Public Health, etc.) |
December – March |
International students can apply but must meet additional requirements:
Undergraduate Degree: Must complete a bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution.
GPA Requirement: 3.5+ on a 4.0 scale recommended.
MCAT Score: 510+ (competitive applicants have 515+).
Clinical Experience: Must have shadowing, research, or healthcare-related volunteer experience.
Letters of Recommendation: At least 3 strong letters from professors or healthcare professionals.
English Proficiency: If undergraduate education was not in English, TOEFL/IELTS is required.
Financial Proof: Must demonstrate the ability to cover tuition and living expenses.
Note: MCW does not offer financial aid for international MD students.
General Requirements:
Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Science, Medicine, or Related Fields.
GPA Requirement: Minimum 3.0+ (Ph.D. programs typically require 3.5+).
English Proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 90
IELTS: Minimum 7.0
Duolingo: Minimum 115
GRE Scores: Not required for most programs but recommended for some Ph.D. tracks.
Letters of Recommendation: 2-3 strong letters from faculty or employers.
Statement of Purpose (SOP): A well-written research statement or personal statement is required.
Research Experience (For Ph.D. Applicants): Strong research background, publications, or laboratory experience is preferred.
Ph.D. students receive full funding, including tuition waivers and stipends.
Application Platform:
Apply through AMCAS (American Medical College Application Service) AMCAS Portal.
Application Deadlines:
Application Stage |
Deadline |
|---|---|
|
AMCAS Primary Application Opens |
May |
|
AMCAS Primary Application Deadline |
October 15 |
|
MCW Secondary Application Deadline |
December 1 |
|
Interviews |
August – March |
|
Admission Decisions |
Rolling basis (October – April) |
Step-by-Step Admission Process for MD
Bachelor’s Degree (Required) – Must be from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution.
GPA Requirement: Recommended 3.5+ on a 4.0 scale.
MCAT Score: Competitive applicants typically score 510+ (higher is preferred).
Clinical & Research Experience: Must have shadowing, patient-care, or laboratory experience.
Letters of Recommendation: At least 3 letters from professors, physicians, or mentors.
English Proficiency (if applicable): Required if undergraduate education was not in English.
Apply through the AMCAS portal.
Upload academic records, MCAT scores, and personal statement.
Pay the AMCAS application fee (~$175 for the first school, $45 for each additional school).
Once MCW reviews your AMCAS application, eligible candidates will receive a secondary application invitation.
The secondary application fee is $100.
The secondary application includes:
Essays about personal experiences and career goals.
Updated academic and extracurricular details.
Selected applicants will be invited for an interview between August and March.
MCW follows the Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) format, which evaluates problem-solving, communication, and ethical decision-making.
International students must attend in-person interviews (virtual options available in certain cases).
MCW follows a rolling admissions process, meaning decisions are released between October and April.
Accepted students must submit a deposit to secure their spot.
Application Platform:
Apply through the Medical College of Wisconsin Graduate School Portal MCW Graduate Portal.
Application Deadlines:
Program Type |
Priority Deadline |
Final Deadline |
|---|---|---|
|
Ph.D. Programs |
December 1 |
March 1 |
|
Master’s Programs |
January 1 |
June 1 |
|
MPH (Public Health) |
Rolling Admissions |
Rolling Admissions |
Step-by-Step Admission Process for Master’s & Ph.D. Programs
Step 1: Meet Admission Requirements
Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree (for Ph.D. applicants).
GPA Requirement: Minimum 3.0+ (Ph.D. programs typically require 3.5+).
English Proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 90
IELTS: Minimum 7.0
Duolingo: Minimum 115
GRE Scores: Not required for most programs, but some Ph.D. tracks may recommend it.
Letters of Recommendation: 2-3 strong letters from faculty or employers.
Statement of Purpose (SOP): A well-written research statement or personal statement is required.
Research Experience (For Ph.D. Applicants): Preferred but not mandatory.
Step 2: Submit Online Application
Apply through the MCW Graduate School Application Portal.
Upload academic records, test scores, and supporting documents.
Pay the application fee (~$50 – $75, varies by program).
Step 3: Interviews (For Select Programs)
Some Ph.D. programs require an interview with faculty members.
Interviews may be in-person or virtual.
Step 4: Receive Admission Decision
Master’s program decisions are usually made within 4-8 weeks after submission.
Ph.D. program decisions are released between March and April.
MCW offers different intake periods for MD, Master’s, and Ph.D. programs.
Program |
Intake Period(s) |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Medicine (MD) |
Fall (August) |
Primary AMCAS Deadline: October 15 |
|
Master’s Programs |
Fall (August) |
Priority Deadline: January 1 |
|
Ph.D. Programs |
Fall (August) |
Priority Deadline: December 1 |
|
Master of Public Health (MPH) |
Fall, Spring, Summer |
Rolling Admissions |
MD Programs only accept applications for Fall intake, while Master’s and Ph.D. programs have flexible deadlines, but early applications are recommended.
General Requirements:
Bachelor’s Degree: Required from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution.
GPA Requirement: Recommended 3.5+ on a 4.0 scale.
MCAT Score: Competitive applicants typically score 510+ (higher preferred).
Clinical & Research Experience: Hands-on experience in shadowing, patient care, or laboratory research.
Letters of Recommendation: At least 3 letters from faculty, physicians, or mentors.
Personal Statement & Secondary Essays: Strong personal statement demonstrating motivation for medicine.
English Proficiency: If undergraduate education was not in English, TOEFL/IELTS is required.
MCW does not accept international students for the MD program unless they have completed a degree in the U.S. or Canada.
General Requirements:
Bachelor’s Degree in Science, Medicine, or Related Fields.
GPA Requirement: Minimum 3.0+ (competitive applicants have 3.5+).
English Proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 90
IELTS: Minimum 7.0
Duolingo: Minimum 115
GRE Scores: Not required for most programs.
Letters of Recommendation: 2-3 strong letters from faculty or employers.
Statement of Purpose (SOP): A well-written research statement or personal statement is required.
Master’s programs accept international students who meet all academic and language proficiency requirements.
General Requirements:
Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Science or Biomedical Fields.
GPA Requirement: Minimum 3.5+ on a 4.0 scale.
English Proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 100
IELTS: Minimum 7.5
Research Experience: Strong background in laboratory research, publications, or projects.
Letters of Recommendation: 3 strong recommendation letters from research advisors.
Statement of Purpose (SOP): Must include research interests and career goals.
GRE Scores: Not required but may be recommended for some Ph.D. tracks.
Ph.D. students typically receive full funding, including tuition waivers and stipends.
Ranking Organization |
Ranking (Global/USA) |
|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not Ranked Globally |
|
QS World Ranking (US Universities) |
Top 300 in the USA |
|
U.S. News & World Report (Best Medical Schools – Research) |
Top 100 in the USA |
|
U.S. News & World Report (Best Medical Schools – Primary Care) |
Top 150 in the USA |
|
Times Higher Education (THE) U.S. College Ranking |
Top 250 in the USA |
|
Washington Monthly National University Rankings |
Top 200 in the USA |
|
NIH Research Funding Ranking (Among U.S. Medical Schools) |
Top 10% |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Amount (USD per year) |
Application Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
|
MCW Diversity Scholarship |
Underrepresented minority students in medicine |
$10,000 – $20,000 |
Automatic consideration upon admission |
|
MCW Endowed & Named Scholarships |
Merit-based awards for high-achieving students |
($5,000 – $15,000) |
Requires separate scholarship application |
|
National Health Service Corps (NHSC) Scholarship |
Students committed to working in underserved communities |
Full tuition + stipend |
Separate NHSC application required |
|
Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) |
U.S. citizens serving in the military after graduation |
Full tuition + living expenses |
Requires commitment to military service |
|
Wisconsin Medical Society Scholarship |
Wisconsin residents pursuing an MD |
$3,000 – $10,000 |
Separate application required |
|
External Scholarships (Fulbright, AMWA, AMA, AACOM) |
Merit-based and need-based awards |
$5,000 – $25,000 |
Apply through external organizations |
Note: MCW does not offer full-tuition scholarships for MD students. External funding is highly recommended.
Scholarship / Assistantship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Amount (USD per year) |
Application Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
|
MCW Graduate Merit Scholarship |
High-achieving master’s students (GPA 3.5+) |
$5,000 – $15,000 |
Automatic consideration upon admission |
|
Graduate Research Assistantship (RA) |
Master’s students working in research labs |
Partial or full tuition waiver + stipend |
Contact department for availability |
|
Graduate Teaching Assistantship (TA) |
Teaching support for faculty courses |
Partial tuition coverage + stipend |
Separate application required |
|
MCW Public Health Scholarship |
Students pursuing MPH (Master of Public Health) |
$10,000 |
Automatic consideration |
|
External Funding (Fulbright, AAUW, Rotary Foundation, NIH) |
Master’s students in STEM & healthcare fields |
($5,000 – $30,000) |
Apply through external organizations |
Master’s students in research-intensive fields may qualify for assistantships that provide tuition waivers and stipends.
Facility |
Details |
Estimated Cost (USD per year) |
|---|---|---|
|
Academic & Research Buildings |
State-of-the-art medical labs, research centers, and clinical training facilities |
Free for students |
|
Library & Study Spaces |
MCW Library with 24/7 study areas, digital resources, and IT support |
Free for students |
|
Simulation & Clinical Training Center |
Hands-on medical training using advanced simulation labs |
Free for students |
|
Recreation & Fitness Center |
Gym, fitness classes, yoga, and wellness programs |
Free for students |
|
Student Health Services |
Medical, mental health, and counseling services |
Health insurance required (~$2,500 per year) |
|
Campus Wi-Fi & IT Support |
High-speed internet access across campus |
Free for students |
|
Public Transport & Campus Shuttle |
Free shuttle services and access to Milwaukee public transport |
Free for students |
|
Dining & Cafeteria Services |
On-campus dining options with meal plans |
$3,500 – $5,500 per year |
MCW does not have traditional dormitories but assists students with off-campus housing options.
MCW does not provide on-campus housing, but students can find affordable apartments near campus. Below are popular off-campus housing options for MCW students.
Housing Option |
Room Type |
Features |
Cost (USD per year) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
The Moderne Apartments |
Studio & 1-Bedroom |
Luxury apartments, gym, rooftop lounge |
$14,000 – $20,000 |
|
The Marq Apartments |
Studio, 1-Bedroom & 2-Bedroom |
Close to MCW, furnished units |
$12,000 – $18,000 |
|
Crescent Apartments |
1-Bedroom & Shared |
Budget-friendly, close to transit |
$10,000 – $14,000 |
|
Park Lafayette Towers |
2-Bedroom & 3-Bedroom |
Large living spaces, lake views |
$15,000 – $22,000 |
|
Homestay (Living with a Local Family) |
Private Room |
Includes meals and utilities |
$8,000 – $12,000 |
Shared apartments cost $10,000 – $15,000 per year, while luxury apartments may cost $15,000 – $20,000+ per year.
Expense Type |
Estimated Cost (USD per year) |
|---|---|
|
Health Insurance (Mandatory for International Students) |
$2,500 – $3,000 |
|
Books & Supplies |
$1,500 – $2,000 |
|
Personal Expenses |
$3,000 – $5,000 |
|
Transportation (Public Transit & Car Expenses) |
$1,200 – $2,500 |
Total Estimated Living Costs for MCW Students: $15,000 – $25,000 per year, including housing, food, and personal expenses.
MCW is known for its challenging curriculum, with students spending long hours in lectures, labs, and clinical rotations. The first two years focus on foundational sciences, while the third and fourth years emphasize hands-on clinical experience. Students rotate through different specialties in hospitals and clinics, gaining exposure to real-world medical scenarios.
The MCW campus in Milwaukee is part of a large medical complex that includes Froedtert Hospital and the Children's Hospital of Wisconsin. This provides students with access to top-tier healthcare facilities, research labs, and study spaces. The library and student lounges offer quiet places to study, while simulation labs help students develop clinical skills.
Despite the heavy workload, students actively participate in various clubs and organizations. There are interest groups for different medical specialties, cultural and diversity organizations, and community service opportunities. Many students engage in volunteer work, such as free clinics or health outreach programs.
Medical school can be stressful, so MCW promotes student wellness through mental health resources, fitness programs, and social events. Students often unwind by exploring Milwaukee’s restaurants, parks, and nightlife. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene, with museums, festivals, and lakefront activities.
Most students live off-campus in nearby apartments or houses. Milwaukee has an affordable cost of living compared to other major cities, and students appreciate the balance of urban life with access to nature. Many enjoy weekend trips to Lake Michigan or nearby hiking trails.
MCW is a strong research institution, and students interested in academic medicine often participate in research projects. There are mentorship programs and networking events to help students explore career paths and residency options.
MCW students consistently achieve high match rates in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). The majority of students match into their top-choice specialties and programs, including prestigious institutions like Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins, Cleveland Clinic, and Stanford.
MCW students match into a wide range of specialties, including:
Internal Medicine
Surgery
Pediatrics
Anesthesiology
Neurology
Radiology
Emergency Medicine
Orthopedic Surgery
Family Medicine
Psychiatry
Dermatology
Many students also choose to stay in Wisconsin for their residencies, while others match into programs across the country.
Since MCW is affiliated with Froedtert Hospital, Children’s Wisconsin, and the Zablocki VA Medical Center, students gain hands-on experience in top-tier medical settings. This strong clinical training helps them stand out in residency applications. Faculty members and mentors also provide guidance, letters of recommendation, and networking opportunities.
MCW emphasizes research, and students who engage in research projects often have an advantage when applying for competitive specialties. The Career Services Office helps students with CV building, interview preparation, and application strategies for residency programs.
MCW has a vast alumni network across the U.S., which helps graduates find job opportunities after residency. Many students go on to work in academic medicine, private practice, or hospital-based careers.
MCW receives over 8,000 applications each year for approximately 230 seats in its MD program. This makes it a highly selective medical school.
MCW considers multiple factors in its holistic review process, including:
GPA: The average undergraduate GPA of accepted students is 3.7–3.8.
MCAT Score: The average MCAT score for admitted students is around 510–512.
Clinical Experience: Strong hands-on experience in healthcare settings is important.
Research & Leadership: Participation in research, leadership roles, and volunteer work strengthens an application.
Letters of Recommendation: Strong letters from professors, physicians, or mentors help applicants stand out.
Personal Statement & Interviews: MCW conducts Multiple Mini Interviews (MMI) to assess applicants' communication, problem-solving, and ethical reasoning skills.
Location: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Features:
Largest and primary MCW campus
Located within the Milwaukee Regional Medical Center, which includes Froedtert Hospital, Children’s Wisconsin, and the Zablocki VA Medical Center
Offers the full four-year MD program, as well as graduate and research programs
Strong focus on research, clinical training, and specialty care
Location: Green Bay, Wisconsin
Features:
Offers a three-year accelerated MD program focused on primary care and rural medicine
Partnerships with regional healthcare systems, including Prevea Health, Bellin Health, and Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS)
Smaller class size, allowing for close faculty-student interaction
Designed for students interested in serving underserved and rural communities
Location: Wausau, Wisconsin
Features:
Also offers a three-year accelerated MD program
Focuses on primary care, psychiatry, and general surgery
Strong partnerships with Aspirus, Marshfield Clinic Health System, and other rural healthcare providers
Designed to address physician shortages in rural and small-town communities
