Program Overview

Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies/Doctor of Health Science Dual Degree Program

The Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies/Doctor of Health Science (MSPAS/DHSc) dual degree program is designed to prepare individuals for leadership positions in the healthcare industry. This program is exclusively offered to students in the Physician Assistant program at the Center City, Philadelphia campus.

Program Overview

The MSPAS/DHSc program is a three-year program that combines the Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies with the Doctor of Health Science. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in healthcare leadership, teaching, and research.

Curriculum

The curriculum is comprised of courses drawn from various colleges at Jefferson, supporting the training of professionals spanning the full gamut of healthcare. The program includes:

• Interdisciplinary health professions education and practice
• Healthcare leadership and management
• Teaching and learning in healthcare
• Research methods and design

Program Structure

The program is structured as follows:

• Year 1: Exclusive focus on the DHSc component, conducted online over three terms
• Years 2-3: PA studies conducted in-person at the Center City campus

Program Highlights

The program features partnerships with the Jefferson Center for Interprofessional Practice and Education (JCIPE) and the Rector University Clinical Skills and Simulation Center, creating innovative, transdisciplinary courses in health professions education. The curriculum presents courses from various Jefferson Colleges to create an interprofessional learning environment.

Academic Opportunities

Related programs include:

• Master of Science Physician Assistant Studies Center City
• Master of Science Physician Assistant Studies East Falls
• Doctor of Health Science (DHSc)

Program Details

The MSPAS/DHSc program is designed for individuals seeking to enter healthcare practice with greater opportunity to advance into leadership positions. The program is unique among combined MSPAS/doctoral degree programs, as students will receive their degrees within three years. All students will experience in-depth, multi-disciplinary training in a comprehensive range of healthcare leadership, teaching, and learning, and research skills that support their development as leaders in a burgeoning health professions career landscape.