Ignite Program | Medical College of Wisconsin

F&MCW Ignite is a collaborative program led by the Office of Academic Pathways at the Medical College of Wisconsin, in partnership with Froedtert Health. The program is designed to inspire students in middle school, high school, and college to explore careers in the health sciences through immersive, hands-on learning. Students spend a half-day on the MCW Milwaukee campus, engaging in hands-on activities, interactive learning sessions, tours, and panel discussions with healthcare professionals and students. Participants also learn about advancing community health and the educational pathways available through Froedtert Health and MCW.

Explore Health Careers. Ignite Your Passion.

Discover the world of health science through hands-on experiences, interactive sessions, and real-life insight from healthcare professionals.

Ignite Participants:

Discover different healthcare disciplines.
Gain insight into higher education and biomedical careers.
Learn how the above advances community health.

What’s Included in the Experience

Each Ignite session offers a mix of engaging activities. Some examples of what students might experience are listed below:

Hands-On Learning

Anatomy lab activities
Standardized Teaching Assessment Resource (STAR) Center simulations
Interactive exercises that explore different health science disciplines

Panel Discussions

Q&A sessions with MCW students and Froedtert Health staff
Learn about academic journeys, career paths, and roles in healthcare

Interactive Education Sessions

Explore critical health issues, including population health efforts in Wisconsin and the role and community impact of healthcare professionals in this work
Participate in discussions about how they can make a difference

Program and Campus Awareness

Learn about MCW and Froedtert Health programs for academic, career, and professional development
Explore MCW facilities, including the Pharmacy School, labs, and other learning spaces

Participate & Connect

Schedule a session for middle school, high school, or college students. Sessions are tailored to the age group, ensuring an age-appropriate and engaging experience:

Middle School: One session per month (September–May)
High School: One session per month (September–May)
College and Community-Based Organizations: Sessions available June–August

Learn about volunteer or mentorship opportunities and explore additional MCW and Froedtert Health programs.

Location: MCW Milwaukee Campus
Duration: Half-day sessions (10 a.m. – 1:15 p.m.)
Dates: Monthly sessions throughout the academic year. Visit the registration page for details.

Quick Reminders:

Ignite is free to attend. Schools providing their own bus transportation should note this during registration.
Lunch is provided for all participants. Please note dietary restrictions/allergies during registration.
Your session is not confirmed until a signed visit proposal is returned to the Ignite Team.
All participants agree to follow the Office of Academic Pathways Code of Conduct (PDF)

Review the frequently asked questions below for important information to prepare for your visit:
Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)

Still have questions? Contact the Ignite team: ignite@mcw.edu