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

The Office of Academic Pathways manages F&MCW Ignite, helping students and educators:

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.
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. For specific dates, please visit the registration page for details.

Interested in a session? To schedule an F&MCW Ignite session for your group, please complete the registration form:

Request Your Ignite Visit

Quick Reminders:

There is no cost to attend Ignite. Schools providing their own bus transportation should note this in the registration form.
Lunch is provided for all participants. Please indicate any dietary restrictions or 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)

We're here to help prepare you for a great visit and F&MCW Ignite experience! 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