Case Western Reserve University

CWRU School of Medicine is the largest biomedical research center in Ohio. With a student population of nearly 1,000, many students are drawn to the campus of their many medical breakthroughs including the world’s first artificial human chromosome discovered in 1997. Additionally, in 2002, the School of Medicine was only the third institution ever to get a best possible review from the Liaison Committee on Medical Education, the board that grants accreditation to medical schools.

Case Western offers more than 25 different degree programs including three traditional programs for medical students. The University Program consists of a traditional four-year track. The College Program is conducted through the Cleveland Clinic and generally takes about five years to complete. This program allows students to combine research and additional clinical experiences. The third option is the Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP), which is a dual program where students can earn both a MD and a PhD degree. This program usually takes about seven years to complete. Other joint-degree programs include a MD/DMD, MD/MPH, masters degrees in bioethics and anthropology, or Master’s of Science degrees in applied anatomy, biomedical investigation, or biomedical engineering. The most popular residency or specialty programs include surgery, anesthesiology, dermatology, and emergency medicine.

The curriculum at CWRU School of Medicine is challenging, and students are required to complete a four-month research block during their education. The school has a designated section of the curriculum called the WR2. This program focuses on fusing medicine and public health through independent study and mentoring experiences in research during the first 18 months of med school. Case Western places a large importance on small group learning, sometimes referred to as “active learning.” Each group does readings, conducts research and discusses their findings within their group. Students can get hands-on experience at the Free Medical Clinic of Greater Cleveland, the Cleveland Clinic, or the University Hospitals Case Medical Center.

Case Western also has opportunities for students to get involved outside of the classroom or research lab. There are more than 35 student organizations on campus, and every year CWRU School of Medicine students write and perform a “Doc Opera.” There are also four societies that have long been a tradition of the school. At the beginning of their med school career, students are assigned to one of four societies named after Case Western alumni. Each society has a dean who works as an academic advisor to the students. Many individuals enjoy the annual Society Cup and ISC Picnic, where students can compete in different activities. Overall, CWRU School of Medicine offers a chance to study medicine at one of the most well-respected med schools in the country.