Campbell University

Programme overview

Campbell University’s Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) is a 36-credit, cohort-based doctorate delivered 100% asynchronously online. The curriculum is structured to build on prior master’s-level coursework (up to 12 credits may be transferred in) and is completed over four semesters using accelerated 8-week courses intended for working professionals. New cohorts start each January and graduate together the following May. Students complete an interactive online orientation one week before classes begin.

What you'll study

The program offers three areas of focus: Clinical Leadership, Health Professions Education, and Clinical Research and Medical Affairs. Coursework emphasizes leadership, policy, advocacy and applied scholarship. Courses are 3 credit hours each and are offered in an 8-week accelerated format; students typically take one course at a time and follow a two-course-per-semester load, with the summer semester requiring concurrent courses. The degree culminates in a faculty-guided applied doctoral capstone project, including a defended final product and a publish-ready manuscript demonstrating integration of program competencies and addressing a real-world problem in clinical leadership, education, quality improvement, or clinical research operations.

Entry requirements

Admission expects prior graduate-level coursework; up to 12 credits from a previous master’s may be transferred. Physician assistants with a master’s degree are explicitly targeted; bachelor’s-trained PAs who have completed a separate graduate degree (for example MHA, MPH/MSPH, MS, or a related field) are also eligible to apply. The DMSc inaugural cohort begins January 2027; applications for that cohort must be submitted and completed by November 20, 2026. Additional detailed admissions requirements are provided by the program.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to expand their roles and lead across clinical, academic, research and administrative settings. The curriculum and capstone are designed to develop credentials and skills for leadership positions, faculty and educational roles, quality improvement initiatives, and clinical research or medical affairs operations.

Scholarships & funding angle

The programme page does not list specific scholarships; prospective students should consult Campbell University’s financial aid office and the College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences for funding options, employer tuition benefits, or graduate aid opportunities.