The newest doctoral program at St. Scholastica: Medical Science

The College of St. Scholastica is excited to announce the launch of its new Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) program, specifically designed for practicing physician assistants and physician associates (PAs) looking to enhance their expertise and credentials in an evolving healthcare landscape. Beginning in spring 2026, this groundbreaking program empowers PAs to lead change and tackle real-world healthcare challenges in high-level roles in clinical practice, education and healthcare leadership.

“St. Scholastica’s new DMSc program is not just another degree; it’s a pioneering initiative that is one-of-its-kind in shaping PA education and healthcare leadership for the next generation of providers,” said program director Dr. Kenneth Botelho. “Our DMSc creates leaders who understand the complexities of healthcare and are prepared to address them head-on.”

Dr. Botelho brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the College as founding director of the DMSc program. His robust background in clinical practice and education has shaped a vision for the program that fosters innovation and collaboration among healthcare professionals: “The future of healthcare depends on collaborative, forward-thinking leaders. As the founder of the Paving Practices initiative, my vision for this program goes beyond just preparing students for leadership; it’s about preparing them to build the future of healthcare.”

Preparing students to lead change

“Our DMSc program is uniquely built for PAs who want to redefine what it means to lead in healthcare,” Dr. Botelho continued. “Unlike traditional programs that focus on theory alone, our curriculum incorporates innovative leadership practices, hands-on experience and interdisciplinary collaboration to prepare our students to lead change across diverse healthcare environments.”

The comprehensive 36-credit DMSc program provides a robust curriculum covering topics like global health, disease prevention and healthcare quality improvement. Additionally, St. Scholastica’s DMSc program offers concentrations in Leadership, Education, and Clinical Practice, allowing students the flexibility to customize their educational experience to align with their career aspirations. The program is primarily delivered online, with the exception of the Clinical Practice track, ensuring accessibility to working professionals.

In addition, students will engage in solutions-oriented capstone projects as catalysts for systemic change. Students will develop real-world, actionable solutions that address critical systemic healthcare challenges, such as improving access to care, reducing disparities and increasing efficiency in healthcare delivery. “Through the capstone projects we challenge our students to innovate and lead change, not just in their careers but in the healthcare system as a whole,” Dr. Botelho noted.

“We understand the needs of our students and have crafted a curriculum that encourages collaboration, innovation and a holistic understanding of the healthcare system,” Dr. Botelho said. “This prepares graduates to lead effectively and make an impact in their communities.”

Become a transformational healthcare leader

As the demand for advanced education in the healthcare field continues to rise, particularly with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 28% growth in PA employment over the next decade, the DMSc degree represents a critical step for PAs aspiring to leadership roles. “The healthcare landscape has become increasingly complex,” Dr. Botelho explained. “Employers are looking for PAs with doctoral-level education who can lead interdisciplinary teams and tackle multifaceted clinical issues.”

Additionally, graduates from similar programs have reported substantial benefits such as career advancement, raises and promotion. Research indicates that over 20% of DMSc graduates receive an increase in compensation and 17% report a promotion within the first year. “Our program is dedicated to delivering the same kinds of transformative outcomes for St. Scholastica graduates,” said Dr. Botelho.

With a curriculum designed for those ready to make an immediate impact, the DMSc program offers the chance to become a transformational leader in healthcare. Applications are now open to join a group of innovative professionals shaping the future of healthcare delivery in the inaugural cohort of the DMSc program. “Together, we will develop strategies to address primary care shortages, expand healthcare access and ensure that the next generation of healthcare leaders is equipped to improve both clinical and administrative outcomes,” concluded Dr. Botelho.

For more information about the Doctor of Medical Science at The College of St. Scholastica, please visit the program page.