Morgan State University Secures $1.75M Grant to Plan New Medical School

Morgan State University, Maryland’s largest Historically Black College and University (HBCU), is moving forward with plans to launch its own medical school after receiving a US$1.75 million grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

The two-year grant will fund the development of a public, nonprofit Doctor of Medicine program designed to strengthen Maryland’s healthcare workforce and address physician shortages, particularly in underserved communities.

“For more than a decade, we have been committed to the idea that a medical school on our campus can be transformative – not only for our students but for the state of Maryland and the nation,” said Morgan State President David Wilson.

According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, the U.S. could face a shortage of up to 48,000 primary care physicians by 2034. Morgan State leaders say the proposed medical school would prioritize training culturally competent physicians to expand primary care access across the state.

The university plans to collaborate with state, federal, and philanthropic partners to design the curriculum, build facilities, and establish a sustainable funding model. The program aims to serve as a national blueprint for “inclusive excellence in medical education,” the university said in a statement.

Morgan State first announced its medical school ambitions in 2020 but delayed the effort due to unforeseen challenges. Since then, officials have worked with healthcare leaders and policymakers to refine the plan, ensuring stronger recognition for future graduates and greater access to funding.

A planning group led by President Wilson is now spearheading the initiative, with the long-term goal of establishing a fully accredited medical school that will help shape the next generation of healthcare leaders.