Advancing Excellence: Why Forward-Thinking Employers Back PA Doctorates

By: Kari S. Bernard, PhD, PA-C

Director, Doctor of Medical Science Program, The College of Idaho

As PA roles expand, the organizations that thrive are those that invest in developing their PA workforce. Supporting PAs in earning a Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) isn’t just a professional perk. It’s a strategic investment in leadership, innovation, and organizational excellence.

At The College of Idaho, the DMSc program equips PAs with advanced skills in implementation science, leadership, population health, and education, all while they continue working full time. The 100% online format, built-in breaks, and personalized mentorship make the program flexible, feasible, and fulfilling for working PAs.

The Organizational Advantage

1. Develop Leaders from Within

Graduates are prepared to take on roles in administration, process improvement, and interprofessional leadership. Employers benefit from cultivating internal leaders who already understand the organization’s culture and mission.

2. Drive Evidence-Based Change

Through coursework in implementation science, PAs learn to translate research into practice, and lead projects that improve efficiency, outcomes, and cost-effectiveness. Practicum projects are designed to align directly with institutional goals and initiatives.

3. Strengthen Teaching and Training Capacity

For institutions that host students, residents, or fellows, DMSc-trained educators bring new strength to preceptorship, academic partnerships, and staff development initiatives.

4. Increase Retention and Professional Satisfaction

When employers invest in their PAs’ advanced education, they communicate trust, respect, and a commitment to professional growth. This support inspires employee engagement and reduces turnover, generating a measurable return on investment.

5. Advance Organizational Reputation

Having doctoral-prepared PAs on staff reflects an organizational commitment to excellence and continuous learning. It distinguishes employers in recruitment, accreditation, and community impact.

A Forward-Thinking Path to Mutual Impact

The College of Idaho’s DMSc program is structured for working clinicians, with 10-week terms, online delivery, and applied projects that directly enhance clinical and organizational performance. The structure allow PAs to integrate school into existing work and life commitments, while leveraging new skills immediately rather than after graduation. Employers can amplify impact by offering tuition assistance, professional development time, or alignment of practicum projects with institutional initiatives.

When PAs grow, so does the organization. Supporting your PAs in earning a DMSc builds the leadership, resilience, and innovation capacity that today’s healthcare systems need most.

Register for an upcoming Virtual Info Session or explore our DMSc program online to learn more about our specialty tracks and accelerated pathways.