McGraw Hill: A Legacy of Educational Publishing and Digital Innovation
From its origins in the late 19th century to its current status as a global leader in edtech (educational technology), McGraw Hill has evolved from a niche technical publisher into a diversified powerhouse of learning. Today, the company specializes in adaptive learning technology, educational software, and comprehensive curricula designed for students from kindergarten through higher education.
The company's journey reflects the broader shift in the education industry: moving away from traditional print textbooks toward integrated digital platforms that personalize the learning experience for every student.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1888 by James H. McGraw and John A. Hill.
- Current CEO: Philip Moyer.
- 2025 Revenue: $2.2 billion.
- Workforce: Approximately 4,200 employees (2025).
- Core Offerings: Adaptive learning tech, e-books, apps, and K-12/Higher Ed curricula.
- Headquarters: Columbus, Ohio.
The Evolution of a Publishing Giant
The foundation of the company began in 1888 when James H. McGraw purchased the American Journal of Railway Appliances. By 1899, this grew into The McGraw Publishing Company. Parallel to this, co-founder John A. Hill established The Hill Publishing Company in 1902, focusing on technical and trade publications.
Throughout the mid-20th century, the company expanded its reach. In 1946, it established an international division, and by the 1970s, it had ventured into film and specialized corporate divisions. For decades, the company operated from its long-time headquarters in New York City.
Strategic Shifts and Divestitures
As the company matured, it began shedding non-core assets to focus on education. In 2011, McGraw Hill exited the broadcasting industry by selling seven television stations to Scripps for $212 million. A more seismic shift occurred in 2012 when The McGraw-Hill Companies sold its entire education division to Apollo Global Management for approximately $2.4 billion in cash.
The company also experimented with direct-to-student models, such as GradeGuru.com (2007–2012), a network where students could exchange notes for cash or gift cards.
Digital Transformation and Acquisitions
To remain competitive in the digital age, McGraw Hill transitioned toward SaaS (Software as a Service) and adaptive learning—technology that adjusts the path of instruction based on a student's performance in real-time.
The company has aggressively acquired firms to bolster its digital capabilities. Notable acquisitions include ALEKS (adaptive learning), Engrade (learning management systems), and Achieve3000. More recently, the company expanded into medical education with the 2022 acquisition of Boards & Beyond and entered the interactive writing space with Essaypop in 2025.
Company Overview Summary
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Ticker Symbol | NYSE: MH |
| Primary Industry | Educational Publishing & Technology |
| Key Products | Reveal Math, Inspire Science, ALEKS |
| Revenue | $2.2 Billion |
| Employee Count | 4,200 |
Corporate History and Leadership
The leadership of McGraw Hill has transitioned through several eras, from the founding partners to modern executives. While the company saw long tenures under leaders like Joseph Dionne and Harold W. McGraw III, the current era is led by CEO Philip Moyer, who took the helm in 2026.
The company's growth has not been without challenges. In the 1980s, it was involved in a legal dispute with the estate of civil rights activist James Baldwin over an advance for an unfinished memoir, a suit that was eventually dropped in 1990. Additionally, the company has faced scrutiny over textbook pricing and content accuracy in recent years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is adaptive learning technology?
Adaptive learning technology uses data and algorithms to adjust the educational content and pace in real-time based on a student's individual strengths and weaknesses, providing a personalized learning path.
Who owns McGraw Hill?
After being sold to Apollo Global Management in 2013, the company later transitioned toward a public offering, trading on the NYSE under the symbol MH.
What are some of McGraw Hill's current K-12 offerings?
Recent curricula include Reveal Math and Inspire Science, both launched in 2019 to modernize K-12 instruction.
Did McGraw Hill ever own television stations?
Yes, the company had a broadcasting division, but it sold all seven of its television stations to Scripps in 2011 to focus on its core publishing and education properties.
What is the relationship between McGraw Hill and S&P Global?
While they share a common history, the business and financial information company previously known as McGraw Hill Financial is now S&P Global, separate from the educational entity known as McGraw Hill.