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Distinguish Yourself as a PA Innovator

The Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) program is designed for Physician Associates (PA) who want to deepen their expertise in clinical practice, healthcare administration, and systems management. This flexible program equips graduates with the training needed to successfully guide organizations, direct care teams, and spearhead research initiatives. At the School of Graduate Studies, we recognize your potential and are dedicated to supporting you in becoming the leader you aspire to be. Join a program that aligns with Maryland's healthcare needs while empowering you to make a lasting difference in your field.

Deadline: July 1

Accepting Applications for Fall 2026

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3 Specializations

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Choose from electives in Health Professions Education, Clinical Informatics, or Global Health.

8 Certificate Pathways

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Earn dual credentials with a graduate certificate that complements your degree.

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Balance life and learning with flexible graduate courses.

Become a Catalyst for Change in Medicine

Are you ready to take your career as a Physician Associate to the next level? The DMSc program stands out as a transformative experience for practicing PAs who see themselves as leaders, innovators, and trailblazers in healthcare. Unlike a PhD, the DMSc focuses on applying strategic thinking and leadership within real-world healthcare settings.

With opportunities to choose electives and post-graduate certificates, students can tailor their academic journey to match their professional goals. Those seeking dual credentials can apply to one of eight graduate certificate pathways. Graduates of ARC-PA accredited master’s-level PA programs may transfer up to 9 credits, while UMSGS PA alumni can transfer up to 15 credits, accelerating their path to completion.

Whether your goal is to advance your clinical skills, deepen your research expertise, or excel in leadership, we have tailored opportunities to help you achieve your vision. 

You will be equipped to 

  • Apply advanced biomedical and clinical knowledge to patient care.
  • Communicate effectively with patients, families, and healthcare teams.
  • Lead interprofessional teams to deliver safe, patient-centered care.
  • Reflect on practice, research, and data to foster continuous improvement.
  • Practice ethically, legally, and with accountability, focusing on quality care.
  • Provide evidence-based care that promotes safety and health equity.
  • Consider social, environmental, and policy factors in clinical decisions.
  • Use intercultural leadership and health systems science to improve outcomes. 

Stand Out with a Certificate in

  • Aging and Applied Thanatology
  • Palliative Care
  • Integrative Health and Wellness
  • Health Professions Education Leadership
  • Health Professions Education Teaching
  • Clinical Informatics
  • Social Entrepreneurship
  • Leading Across Difference

  • Online application
  • $75 application fee
  • Official transcripts
  • CV or resume
  • 1 letters of recommendation
  • NCCPA cert., current and active
  • Current licensure in the US
  • Proof of English language proficiency
  • Statement detailing a practice-based issue/problem you're interested in improving

Prepare for Leadership with a DMSc

The DMSc program offers a direct path to executive leadership and career growth within the healthcare field. The doctorate degree is designed for PAs who want to expand their impact in clinical care, healthcare administration, medical education, and evidence-based practice. The program emphasizes practical application, interprofessional collaboration, and solutions to current healthcare challenges, allowing graduates to advance into senior-level roles more quickly. For PAs who are passionate about improving patient outcomes, influencing healthcare policy, and driving innovation, the DMSc provides a practice-oriented alternative to the highly specialized path of a PhD.

Healthcare leadership communicating with team members.

Dr. Bondy provides excellent, engaging, and thoughtful feedback. There's great use of evidence-based inventories in the Advocacy & Leadership course!
Laurarose Dunn-O'FarrellProgram Director and Chair at Frostburg State University Department of PA Medicine DMSc Student

Why Choose the School of Graduate Studies?

Engage with faculty and peers across disciplines for valuable feedback and fresh perspectives.  

Learn from seasoned instructors across the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB), with expertise in education, research, and academic-executive leadership. 

The School of Graduate Studies is one of UMB's seven professional schools, designed to support the next generation of researchers, professionals, and leaders. A certificate from UMB enhances your credibility and opens doors across Maryland's health and science fields and beyond. 

Propel Your Career Forward

Learn more about the Doctor of Medical Science program or start your application today.

620 W. Lexington St.
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 706-3100

University of Maryland School of Graduate Studies. All Rights Reserved.