Why ODU for Medical Science?

Advancing in today’s medical field requires more than clinical expertise—it demands leadership, scholarly insight, and the ability to drive change. ODU’s Doctor of Medical Science (D.M.Sc.) program is designed for certified Physician Assistants who want to expand their impact in clinical practice or academic medicine.

In this one-year, full-time program, you can choose a track in either Clinical Leadership or Educational Leadership, aligning your education with your career goals. You can enter the program in the spring, summer or fall. Through scholarly and applied projects, you will build essential skills in:

  • Critical reasoning and analysis
  • Professional communication
  • Clinical or academic leadership
  • Evidence-based practice
  • Innovation in health systems or education

When you graduate, you will be prepared to lead clinical teams, shape educational programs, and implement meaningful change with your Doctor of Medical Science from a respected R1 research institution.

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Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME)

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. It designates this live activity for a maximum of 30 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™.

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

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Program Information

Total
30 Credit Hours

Advance your career. Earn your doctoral degree in Medical Science online. 

Each track requires a total of 30 credit hours divided into three terms. Each term requires three courses totaling 10 credit hours. Beginning in Spring 2026, classes begin at the start of each semester (Spring, Summer, Fall).

Courses include:

  • Essentials of Financial Management
  • Healthcare Policy for PAs

Explore Courses in the Graduate Catalog

This online Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) program is designed for practicing Physician Assistants with NCCPA certification who want to strengthen their expertise, advance into leadership roles, or contribute to academic programs.

Access course materials online from any location. Many classes don't have a scheduled meeting time, so you can fit class into your personal schedule. The instructor may schedule assignments and exams at specific times. All courses follow ODU's regular academic calendar.

Lauren K. Paluch, DMSc, MPA, PA-C
Associate Professor and DSMc Program Director
Physician Assistant, MPA
paluchlk@odu.edu
757.446.7158

Kimberly K. Dempsey, EdD, MPA, PA‑C, DFAAPA
Associate Professor
Physician Assistant, MPA
dempsekk@odu.edu
757.446.7158

Amanda F. Quillin, DHSc, CHES®
Assistant Professor
Health Sciences, DHSc
quilliaf@odu.edu
757-446-7257

Dan T. Thibodeau, DHSc, MHP, PA-C, DFAAPA
Professor, Health Professions
Physician Assistant, MPA
thiboddt@odu.edu
757.446.7158

Total
30 Credit Hours

Advance your career. Earn your doctoral degree in Medical Science online. 

Each track requires a total of 30 credit hours divided into three terms. Each term requires three courses totaling 10 credit hours. Beginning in Spring 2026, classes begin at the start of each semester (Spring, Summer, Fall).

Courses include:

  • Essentials of Financial Management
  • Healthcare Policy for PAs

Explore Courses in the Graduate Catalog

This online Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) program is designed for practicing Physician Assistants with NCCPA certification who want to strengthen their expertise, advance into leadership roles, or contribute to academic programs.

Access course materials online from any location. Many classes don't have a scheduled meeting time, so you can fit class into your personal schedule. The instructor may schedule assignments and exams at specific times. All courses follow ODU's regular academic calendar.

Lauren K. Paluch, DMSc, MPA, PA-C
Associate Professor and DSMc Program Director
Physician Assistant, MPA
paluchlk@odu.edu
757.446.7158

Kimberly K. Dempsey, EdD, MPA, PA‑C, DFAAPA
Associate Professor
Physician Assistant, MPA
dempsekk@odu.edu
757.446.7158

Amanda F. Quillin, DHSc, CHES®
Assistant Professor
Health Sciences, DHSc
quilliaf@odu.edu
757-446-7257

Dan T. Thibodeau, DHSc, MHP, PA-C, DFAAPA
Professor, Health Professions
Physician Assistant, MPA
thiboddt@odu.edu
757.446.7158

Cost & Aid

Woman conducting research in a lab setting
Calculating Cost
In-state Virginia Residents
$486 per credit hour*
Out-of-State Students
$926 per credit hour

Rates are effective Fall 2025 and subject to change.
* In-state rate assumes residency requirements are met.

Explore evms Tuition & Fees

The newest class of graduates through ODUGlobal celebrated commencement in May 2024.
Scholarships & Aid

Scholarship Opportunities for Online Students

At ODUGlobal, we offer a variety of scholarships to support and empower you in achieving your academic and career goals, making quality education accessible wherever you are. 
 

Careers in Medical Science

Clinicians with a Doctor of Medical Science are equipped to lead in clinical practice, healthcare administration, and academic settings.

Career paths for D.M.Sc. graduates include:

  • Clinical director or team leader
  • Medical science educator or faculty member
  • Healthcare program administrator
  • Curriculum or clinical education coordinator
  • Consultant in health systems or clinical operations
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
Growth
11.5%
Median Salary
$100,890
Clinical Data Managers
Growth
36.0%
Median Salary
$108,020
Instructional Coordinators
Growth
1.8%
Median Salary
$74,620
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
Growth
18.8%
Median Salary
$105,650

Ready to Apply?

Applicants must have:

  • A master's degree awarded by an ARC-PA accredited Physician Assistant program.
  • Certification to practice by National Commission NCCPA.
  • A graduate GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Explore all admission requirements in the Graduate Catalog.