MCW Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences Partners with Wisconsin Lutheran College for 4+1 Dual-Degree Public Health Program

Milwaukee, Nov. 9, 2020 - Wisconsin Lutheran College (WLC) and the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences have announced an early assurance direct admission and reverse transfer program that provides an accelerated route for full-time WLC students who successfully complete their public health program prerequisites and admission requirements to gain direct admission to MCW’s Master of Public Health program.

“We are incredibly honored to have the opportunity to work with Wisconsin Lutheran College,” said Terry Brandenburg, program director of public health at MCW. “Now more than ever, developing influential public health leaders is incredibly essential to the welfare of our communities. Together, our two institutions can create the public health leaders of tomorrow.”

In only four years, WLC students can complete their Bachelor of Science degree in biology while concurrently earning a 15-credit graduate certificate in public health from MCW. After graduating from WLC, students can complete their Master of Public Health degree from MCW in just one year, nearly one year earlier than typical. This option alleviates some of the financial burden of school tuition for students seeking to obtain both a bachelor’s and master’s degree. Reverse transfer of MCW credits to WLC is only available to WLC biology majors, alleviating scheduling burdens; however, students from other majors may take advantage of the direct admission and dual-enrollment options, should it fit within their schedule.

“As an alumnus of both Wisconsin Lutheran College (‘98) and the Medical College of Wisconsin (‘05), I’ve witnessed firsthand the many ways our institutions have collaborated over the years and the positive results that our synergistic relationship has had on our students and on our community,” said Dr. Rob Balza, Dean of the College of Health Sciences at WLC.. “We are living in a unique time in history. We need bold Christian leaders, motivated and equipped to face the public health challenges of today with skill, grace and wisdom. Our dual-degree Master of Public Health program partnership with MCW will prepare students to meet the moment, living their purpose.”

Established in 1986, the Master of Public Health program at MCW has had a highly successful history of helping students reach their educational goals, increase their knowledge and further their careers.