The Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) at Marshall B. Ketchum University is an advanced professional graduate degree designed to support physician assistants/associates in the continued development of clinical expertise, leadership, scholarship, and professional impact. The program prepares graduates to expand their roles in healthcare delivery, education, administration, and advocacy through rigorous doctoral-level study.

The DMSc program offers two concentrations: a six-month bridge option for recent graduates of ARC-PA–accredited physician assistant programs who have completed their degree within two academic years of the DMSc start date, and a twelve-month option for experienced PAs. Both concentrations culminate in the award of the Doctor of Medical Science degree. The program seeks to admit motivated, professionally accomplished applicants who demonstrate the ability to succeed in advanced academic coursework and who are committed to advancing the PA profession.

Admission is based on a comprehensive review of academic preparation, professional credentials, and demonstrable readiness for doctoral-level study. Applicants must complete the online application available through the MBKU website and meet all program-specific requirements. All applicants must have passed the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE). Applicants to the bridge program must be PANCE-eligible. Students currently enrolled in a PA program may apply provided they will complete their degree prior to the DMSc program start date; official transcripts showing a conferred PA degree must be submitted before enrollment begins. A cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale is required.

Applicants are required to submit official transcripts, a current curriculum vitae or résumé, and a written essay demonstrating graduate-level writing skills. The essay should describe the applicant’s professional aspirations, explain how the DMSc degree aligns with their career goals, and articulate how the applicant intends to use the degree to make a meaningful contribution to healthcare and the physician assistant profession. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, fluent in English, and a resident of one of the MBKU authorized states for educational practice as listed on our admissions website.

A letter of recommendation from a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician associate/assistant is optional but encouraged. Letters should speak to the applicant’s professional abilities and readiness for advanced study and may not be submitted by personal friends or family members.

Marshall B. Ketchum University practices rolling admissions for the DMSc program. Applications are reviewed as they are received, and qualified applicants may be offered admission before the final application deadline if space is available. To maximize consideration in a rolling admissions process, applicants are encouraged to apply early.