Why ODU for Educational Leadership and Administration in Medical Science?

Preparing to lead in health professions education requires a foundation in instructional design, program evaluation, and academic leadership. ODU’s Educational Leadership and Administration Graduate Certificate equips healthcare professionals with the skills needed to teach, assess, and lead within clinical and academic learning environments.

In this one-year program, you will:

  • Explore educational scholarship, research design, and evaluation methods
  • Learn foundational principles of academic leadership and accreditation, with a focus on PA education
  • Develop effective instructional strategies and assessment tools for health professions learners

When you complete this certificate, you will be prepared to take on teaching and leadership roles in healthcare education programs.

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Program Information

Total
9 Credit Hours

You will take three required courses to complete the Educational Leadership and Administration certificate:

  • Educational Scholarship Method
  • Teaching & Learning in PA Education
  • Learning Assessment and Evaluation

Explore Courses in the Graduate Catalog

This online Educational Leadership and Administration graduate certificate is ideal for current or aspiring faculty, clinical educators, or healthcare professionals pursuing a future in health professions education. Applicants should be interested in teaching, curriculum development, or academic program leadership.

 

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
Assistant Professor
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
9 Credit Hours

You will take three required courses to complete the Educational Leadership and Administration certificate:

  • Educational Scholarship Method
  • Teaching & Learning in PA Education
  • Learning Assessment and Evaluation

Explore Courses in the Graduate Catalog

This online Educational Leadership and Administration graduate certificate is ideal for current or aspiring faculty, clinical educators, or healthcare professionals pursuing a future in health professions education. Applicants should be interested in teaching, curriculum development, or academic program leadership.

 

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
Assistant Professor
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

Bridge to the Doctoral Program

The Educational Leadership and Administration Graduate Certificate offers a direct, flexible pathway to the Doctor of Medical Science (D.M.Sc.) program.

Students who earn a grade of B or higher in each course may apply the nine certificate credits toward the doctoral degree, where they will count toward the transcript and cumulative GPA if admitted. This option supports healthcare professionals looking to advance their clinical leadership and continue their academic journey.

Medical educator leading a lecture

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 Educational Leadership and Administration

Educational leadership skills are essential for healthcare professionals who teach, develop curriculum, or direct academic programs.

Career paths for certificate holders include:

  • Health professions faculty or clinical instructor
  • Curriculum and instructional design specialist
  • Academic program director or department chair
  • Clinical education coordinator or accreditation specialist
  • Faculty development leader or educational consultant

Graduates may also continue into the Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) program to further advance their educational leadership.

Instructional Coordinators
Growth
1.8%
Median Salary
$74,620
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
Growth
18.8%
Median Salary
$105,650
Education Administrators, Postsecondary
Growth
2.9%
Median Salary
$102,610

Ready to Apply?

All non-physician assistant applicants are reviewed on a case-by-case basis to ensure their graduate training meets program standards.

Applicants must have:

  • A master's degree (minimum 60 credits) from a regionally accredited institution with a healthcare focus
  • Certification to practice from an accredited regulatory body (e.g., NCCPA, BOC, NASM, ACSM)
  • A graduate GPA of 3.0 or higher

Explore all admission requirements in the Graduate Catalog.