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Doctorate in Medical Science

The Doctor of Medical Science (D.M.Sc.) program is designed for certified Physician Assistants who want to expand their impact in clinical practice or academic medicine. This one-year, full-time program allows students to choose a track in either Clinical Leadership or Educational Leadership, aligning their education with their career goals.

Program Highlights

• For certified Physician Assistants
• Designed to be completed in one year
• Cohorts start in Spring, Summer, or Fall
• Qualifies for a maximum of 30 Direct AMA PRA Category 1 Credits for Continuing Medical Education

Why ODU for Medical Science?

Advancing in today's medical field requires more than clinical expertise—it demands leadership, scholarly insight, and the ability to drive change. Through scholarly and applied projects, students build essential skills in:

• Critical reasoning and analysis
• Professional communication
• Clinical or academic leadership
• Evidence-based practice
• Innovation in health systems or education

Program Information

Required Courses

• Total of 30 credit hours divided into three terms
• Each term requires three courses totaling 10 credit hours
• Courses include:
  • Essentials of Financial Management
  • Healthcare Policy for PAs

Who Should Apply

This online Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) program is designed for practicing Physician Assistants with NCCPA certification who want to strengthen their expertise, advance into leadership roles, or contribute to academic programs.

Online Learning Environment

Access course materials online from any location. Many classes don't have a scheduled meeting time, so students can fit class into their personal schedule. The instructor may schedule assignments and exams at specific times. All courses follow ODU's regular academic calendar.

Program Faculty

• Lauren K. Paluch, DMSc, MPA, PA-C, Associate Professor and DSMc Program Director
• Kimberly K. Dempsey, EdD, MPA, PA-C, DFAAPA, Associate Professor
• Amanda F. Quillin, DHSc, CHES, Assistant Professor
• Dan T. Thibodeau, DHSc, MHP, PA-C, DFAAPA, Professor, Health Professions

Cost & Aid

Calculating Cost

• In-state Virginia Residents: $486 per credit hour
• Out-of-State Students: $926 per credit hour
• Rates are effective Fall 2025 and subject to change

Scholarship Opportunities

ODUGlobal offers a variety of scholarships to support and empower students in achieving their academic and career goals.

Careers in Medical Science

Clinicians with a Doctor of Medical Science are equipped to lead in clinical practice, healthcare administration, and academic settings. Career paths for D.M.Sc. graduates include:

• Clinical director or team leader
• Medical science educator or faculty member
• Healthcare program administrator
• Curriculum or clinical education coordinator
• Consultant in health systems or clinical operations

Admission Requirements

Applicants must have:

• A master's degree awarded by an ARC-PA accredited Physician Assistant program
• Certification to practice by National Commission NCCPA
• A graduate GPA of 3.0 or higher

Related Programs

• Graduate Certificate Educational Leadership and Administration
• Graduate Certificate Clinical Leadership and Administration
• Neonatal Physician Assistant Certificate Online
• Health Sciences Doctorate Online
• Medical and Health Professions Education