Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, home to one of the top physician assistant (PA) programs in the U.S., announces a new degree program — the Doctor of Medical Science (DMS) — designed to expand professional opportunities for practicing PAs.
“Our doctor of medical science degree is an opportunity for advanced practice providers who want to help shape the future of their profession, improve health equity and access, and transform the delivery of care,” said College of Health Professions Dean Lisa Dutton, PT, MS ’93, PhD. “It builds on the strengths of our top-rated Physician Assistant Practice program and our institution, which is at the forefront of interprofessional education and collaborative practice.”
One of the fastest growing professions in the United States, PAs have proven to create access to care, and improve health outcomes and patient satisfaction. Employment of PAs is projected to grow 28% through 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The all-online DMS program, approved by the Illinois Board of Higher Education, will help PAs advance their knowledge through small classes and supportive, flexible learning. They will be prepared to take on greater responsibility as the profession continues to evolve to meet the growing needs of patients, communities and healthcare systems.
DMS students will develop leadership and administrative skills in growth areas both within and beyond clinical practice, including personalized medicine, technology-driven care and targeted prevention through lifestyle medicine and nutrition. Areas of concentration include lifestyle medicine, nutrition, leadership and health administration or health professions education.
“Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ is educating healthcare professionals who can bridge the gap between clinical expertise and system-level change,” said Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ incoming Interim Provost James Carlson, PhD, PA-C. “We’re equipping them with the advanced knowledge they need to improve health care through leadership, research and evidence-based practice.”