A younger physician assistant wearing glasses, white coat and stethoscope, examines patient while holding digital pad

Medical Science (D.M.Sc.)

Advance your career with this degree program designed for working Physician Assistants by leaders in the profession.

Medical Science (D.M.Sc.)

Accreditation Statement

Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

Credit Designation

Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University designates this live activity for a maximum of 10 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit^TM

Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

What sets us apart

The Medical Science (D.M.Sc.) program is a one-year program with a fall semester start designed for working physician assistants desiring doctoral-level training to advance their education.

Physician Assistant in a white coat and wearing glasses with female patient in gown

A blonde female doctor in a white coat speaks to another female doctor, also in a white coat, both seated at a table

Two tracks offering practical skills

The Medical Science (D.M.Sc) degree offers students the flexibility to pursue tracks in either Clinical Leadership or Educational Leadership, aligning their education with their career aspirations.

Throughout the program, students gain hands-on experience by developing and implementing projects, ensuring practical application of their learning.

Two Graduate Certificate programs

Not ready for a full doctorate program? The nine credits earned in these one-year programs can be applied towards the doctoral courses if a student decides to continue their degree.

Successful completion of the certificate guarantees admission to the full doctoral program.

Learn More

Happy young adult nursing or medical student talks with classmate in university medical training class

Program benefits

Manageable Courseload

Designed to be completed at any stage in a Physician Assistant's career

Flexible

Online, asynchronous, semester-long classes, allowing you to do work on your schedule

Scholarly and Practice Experience

Engagement in scholarly and clinical projects cultivates essential career-enhancing skills and experience

Meet Our Faculty

Kimberly K. Dempsey, EdD, MPA, PA-C, DFAAPA, Associate Professor

Dr. Dempsey has taught graduate students in the Physician Assistant program since 2007 and serves as the Program Director. She also teaches in the Doctor of Medical Science (D.M.Sc) program, where she previously served as Program Director from 2016 to 2024. Her research interests include adult education, professional development, curriculum development, and student success.

Dan T. Thibodeau, MHP, PA-C, DFAAPA, Associate Professor, D.M.Sc.

Dr. Thibodeau has been a faculty member of the physician assistant program since 2005. His focus of education is the patient interview and physical exam skill development, as well as clinical skills procedures. He has been an active member of his local, state, and national organizations, and currently represents our school and his profession on national steering committees in cardiovascular disease.

Lauren K. Paluch, DMSc, MPA, PA-C, Program Director

Dr. Paluch serves as Program Director and is a 2014 graduate of the EVMS PA program. She received her Doctor of Medical Science degree from the University of Lynchburg in 2020. Dr. Paluch has been a faculty member since February 2020. She also practices clinically in pediatrics. Her academic interests include professional practice refinement as well as diversity, equity and inclusion in health profession education.

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Take the next step in your career. Apply to earn your doctorate in Medical Science.

Apply Now

Contact Us

Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences Medical Science at Old Dominion University
P.O. Box 1980
Norfolk, VA 23501

VHS-dmsc@odu.edu

757.446.7158

This website reflects current program information, including admission criteria and curricula. Information is subject to change.