Newswise — Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine is among the top 25 research-oriented medical schools in the nation, and is No. 1 in Ohio, according to the influential ranking of graduate schools released today by U.S. News & World Report.

“Our continuous ranking among the top 25 medical schools in the United States and as number one in Ohio reflects our long-term commitment to excellence in medical education and research,” said Pamela Davis, MD, PhD, dean of Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and the university’s senior vice president for medical affairs.

The rankings are based on peer assessments from medical school deans nationally, as well as heads of internal medicine and directors of admissions, and on objective criteria such as research funding and the qualifications of admitted students. This year, Case Western Reserve School University School of Medicine was ranked 25th in the nation. The magazine’s analysis for the school’s ranking includes Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University.

“We are proud that the excellence of our academic program continues to attract students who are among the finest in the nation,” added Davis, noting that this year’s incoming class has grades and Medical College Admission Test scores that are well above the national average.

“As change sweeps across our health care delivery system, we have ensured that our students are prepared to provide effective medical care to patients and their families in the 21st century,” said Vice Dean for Medical Education Patricia Thomas, MD, FACP. “Among the many elements of our innovative method of instruction is the groundbreaking Western Reserve 2 curriculum, a student-centered approach to learning that emphasizes scholarship, clinical mastery, teamwork and leadership. We are also known for our interprofessional educational programs, in which medical, dental, nursing and social work students learn together.”

This past year, the school’s figure for research funding from the National Institutes of Health in U.S. News’ rankings topped last year’s by more than $10 million, helping support its world-class faculty conduct pioneering scientific investigations in such areas as cancer, bio-informatics and regenerative medicine. Student participation in cutting-edge research projects is another hallmark of the school’s inventive curriculum.

In addition, the school is dedicated to improving the health and health care of the Cleveland community. That includes providing first-year students with clinical experiences that increase their understanding of the challenges involved in delivering care to the city’s low-income populations.

“We are committed to continuing to strengthen our capacities—to perform pathbreaking research that leads to cures, and to prepare superb and compassionate physicians,” Davis said.

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For more information about Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, please visit: http://www.case.edu/medicine.