SHU Debuts CT’s First Doctor of Medical Science Program

Flexible, fully online format allows practicing physician assistants and associates to advance professionally while practicing clinically

Key Highlights

• Sacred Heart University launches Connecticut’s first Doctor of Medical Science (D.M.Sc.) program for physician assistants and associates
• Fully online, asynchronous format allows practicing PAs to continue working clinically while earning their doctorate
• Program prepares advanced clinicians to lead in evolving health care environments through interdisciplinary collaboration and systems-level improvement

Sacred Heart University is launching a new Doctor of Medical Science (D.M.Sc.) program for practicing physician assistants and associates (PAs) who want to grow their impact in health care. It is the first Doctor of Medical Science program offered in the state and one of few in New England.

“The Doctor of Medical Science program is an important extension of the University’s broader strategy to advance graduate education in the health professions,” said Karl Minges, dean of the College of Health Professions. “It reinforces our commitment to preparing clinicians who can work across disciplines, contribute to system-level improvement, and respond to evolving workforce needs.”

The 30-credit, fully online, asynchronous doctoral program is designed for practicing PAs who hold a master’s degree and want to advance their skills while continuing to work.

“This program represents an important milestone, as it will be the first Doctor of Medical Science program in Connecticut,” said Reynold Jaglal, chair and program director of SHU’s physician associate studies program. “It reflects Sacred Heart University’s mission to prepare compassionate, forward-thinking leaders. We are giving physician associates the opportunity to take the next step in their careers while continuing to serve their patients and communities.”

The new program addresses a growing need for PA-specific doctoral education in the region. As Connecticut’s first D.M.Sc. program, Sacred Heart’s offering provides working professionals a flexible path to doctoral study while preparing leaders to drive change across health care systems, classrooms, and communities. Graduates will be equipped for roles in academia, executive and organizational leadership, health systems management, and policy development.

The curriculum includes foundational coursework in leadership, health policy, population health, and quality improvement, followed by a choice of two specialized tracks: education or health care leadership. The program culminates in a capstone project that addresses a real-world challenge in clinical or academic practice.

"Health care is evolving rapidly, and there is an increasing need for highly trained professionals who can lead change,” said Eric Nemec, director of research and assessment and associate professor at SHU. “Students in this program can expect a rigorous, yet flexible learning experience that connects directly to their professional goals. Through coursework in leadership, policy, and education, along with a hands-on capstone project, they will gain practical skills they can immediately apply in their workplaces.”

Sacred Heart’s D.M.Sc. program will stand out for its focus on compassion-centered leadership and its alignment with the University’s mission to serve the common good. By combining flexible learning with practical, real-world application, the program aims to prepare graduates to lead meaningful change in health care systems and improve outcomes for patients and communities.

“At its core, this program is about advancing health care in a way that aligns with our values of compassion, service, and equity,” said Jaglal. “Our graduates will be prepared not only to lead, but to lead with purpose—improving systems of care and the communities they serve.”