Medical Sciences, DMSc

Program Description

The DMSc program will be a fully online, asynchronous, 12- to 15-month program. The program will have four 12- week semesters with at least three required courses taken each semester. Students can opt to take electives within the four-semester’s or add on an additional semester. All students will take courses in evidence-based medical writing, practicum series, and doctoral project series. Students will declare a concentration of study (Healthcare Administration, or Education) and will complete three courses in their declared area. Students will also need to complete two elective courses to round out their education. The elective courses may be courses in the other concentration or the designated electives.

The program will have a mid-summer start and will require an application for admission. This is not a direct-entry program, as all students will be required to hold active NCCPA certification before admission. The program is designed to be completed while students are working full-time as PA professionals.

Admission to the program:
Criteria:
Master’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution
Proof of active licensure and/or certification as a PA professional
A minimum graduate GPA of 3.0
A resume or CV detailing personal, educational, and professional achievements
One letter of recommendation
A completed online application

The program goals/outcomes are:
The goal of the Springfield College Doctor of Medical Sciences in PA studies degree is for graduates to become leaders in their field. It is built upon the foundation of Humanics and academic excellence in communities and clinical settings for which Springfield College is known. This goal is achieved through further training in leadership, scholarship, medicine, and administration.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the DMSc, graduates will be able to:
Provide advanced and/or specialized care to patients by demonstrating enhanced competency in the NCCPA defined competencies for Practicing PAs.
Medical knowledge
Patient Care
Interpersonal and communication skills
Professionalism
Practice-Based Learning and Improvement
System-based learning
Develop the skills needed to take on leadership roles at local, national and/or global levels.
Review, critique and develop plans/projects for improving patient safety and outcomes.
Develop professional writing skills
Create an Evidence-based article for publication.