Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc)

The Most Flexible, Forward-Thinking DMSc in the Nation

Transform your career in six to 12 months.

Lynchburg's DMSc

The University of Lynchburg was the first institution to define what a Doctor of Medical Science could be — and we’re still the ones leading the way.

Our newly redesigned DMSc sets the national standard for flexibility, innovation, and real-world impact. With three distinct tracks offering accelerated completion options, cutting-edge certificates, and in-depth specialties, Lynchburg’s DMSc is designed to meet you where you are — and take you where healthcare is going next.

Whether you want to lead in clinical practice, shape policy, educate future providers, or drive innovation from the boardroom, at Lynchburg, the DMSc isn’t just a degree. It’s your next step toward meaningful, transformational leadership.

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The flexible path to your degree.

6-12 Months

Finish your degree in one year or less.

3 Tracks

Tailor the DMSc to your goals.

The Doctor of Medical Science is more than a degree — it’s a launchpad.

At Lynchburg, your clinical experience is just the beginning. Our DMSc builds on what you already know and equips you to lead, educate, advocate, and influence healthcare at every level. What you learn today, you’ll apply tomorrow — in real time, in real-world settings.

This is where your next chapter begins.

Start on Your Schedule: Enrolling each January, March, June, August, and October.

Go Further. Start Here.
Let us know you’re interested, and we’ll be in touch.

Or call us

434-544-8770

Or call us

434-544-8770

Choose Your Track:

The DMSc offers three flexible Degree tracks to advance your career.

DMSc Core: The fastest, most affordable path to your doctorate. Designed for U.S. and international PAs, this track allows you to complete your degree in just six months by accepting 12 credits for your professional academic experience.
DMSc+ (Plus): Build a DMSc that aligns with your interests and goals. This flexible option allows you to customize and enhance the DMSc Core with electives or choose from our 13 graduate-level certificates in high-demand areas like healthcare law, artificial intelligence in healthcare, public health, medical affairs, and more.
DMSc Specialty: The original, in-depth Lynchburg DMSc experience. Go deeper into a focused area of practice with 37 credit hours of advanced, specialized coursework. Perfect for PAs seeking long-term leadership, academic, or subject matter expert roles, this track lets you specialize in fields like addiction medicine, medical education, emergency management, and more.

Having a doctorate is certainly an important component of being a leader in today’s health care systems.

Jonathan Sobel, DMSc ’18, PA-C, MBA

Former president, American Academy of PAs
Senior Administrative Director for PA Services, Northwell Health, New York City, New York

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**This program is not an entry-level doctoral program. PAs interested in this program must have previously completed all their PA professional education, completed a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, and successfully passed the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE).

University of Lynchburg | 1501 Lakeside Drive | Lynchburg, VA 24501-3113 | 434.544.8100