Baylor University has joined forces with the U.S. Army to create a clinical doctoral program that trains physician assistants in emergency medicine. The degree offered is a Doctorate of Science Physician Assistant (DScPA). The program's extensive training prepares graduates to provide advanced medical services in active combat. Applicants must be on active duty in the Army, hold a master's degree, and have four years of PA experience.
As of 2010, Army medical centers offering the program included Brooke at Fort Sam Houston, Texas; Madigan at Fort Lewis, Washington; Carl Darnall at Fort Hood, Texas; and William Beaumont at Fort Bliss, Texas.
Baylor University Graduate School
One Bear Place
Waco, TX 76798
254-710-2588
www.baylor.edu
Nova Southeastern University in Florida has a distance education program that awards a Doctor of Health Science (DHSc) degree. Many students in the program are PAs seeking doctorates. In 2007 Director Patricia Kelly estimated the program had conferred degrees on more than 75 PAs. Courses take place online, but an internship, doctoral analysis, practicum, and several week-long on-campus visits are required. Graduates have an excellent track record of finding employment in administrative positions and academia.
Nova Southeastern University
Health Professions Division
3200 S. University Dr.
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328
1-800-541-6682
www.nova.edu
The Arizona School of Health Sciences at A.T. Still University offers a Doctor of Health Science (DHSc) degree with a concentration in advanced physician's assistant studies. The majority of coursework is done online, although an additional six credit-hour residency requirement must be fulfilled at the school's Mesa, Arizona, campus. Applicants must have a master's degree and be licensed health care professionals. The program is designed to provide graduates with the skills and credentials necessary to obtain leadership positions in the health care field.
Arizona School of Health Sciences
5850 E. Still Circle
Mesa, AZ 85206
480-219-6000
www.atsu.edu