Springfield College Introduces Innovative Doctor of Medical Science Program for Physician Associates
About 90 minutes east of Boston, Massachusetts lies Springfield College, the birthplace of basketball. Springfield College was founded in 1885 and currently enrolls around 4,100 students.
Springfield has a 27-month Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies which can be accessed alone or through their 6-year Bachelor of Science in Health Science/pre-PA followed by the master’s-level physician assistant program.
Starting in 2024, Springfield will offer a 37-credit Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc). Like most other DMS/DMSc programs, this will be a 100% online course held asynchronously to meet the needs of practicing Physician Associates (PAs).
The DMSc at Springfield will comprise four 12-week semesters taught by doctoral faculty. The school will offer two program concentrations: Clinical and Education.
The clinical curriculum is said to “blend advanced clinical knowledge, scholarship, and leadership skills.” There will be a focus on incorporating evidence-based medicine into practical patient care. The clinical concentration is best for those practicing PAs looking to transition to leadership roles.
The educational concentration is tailored for physician assistants currently in, or seeking to transition into, the field of physician assistant education emphasizing curriculum design and development, program development and upkeep, as well as the intricacies of accreditation.
The program can be completed in 12-15 months while working full-time. It will cost just over $29,000 before fees.
