Starting in the fall of 2026, Sacred Heart University (SHU) opened its new Doctor of Medical Science (D.M.Sc.) program, the first of its kind in Connecticut and one of only a few in the New England area. The D.M.Sc. program is fully online, asynchronous and offers the opportunity for physician associates, known as PAs, to advance their knowledge.
Contributed by Sacred Heart University.
The program is 30-credits and is open to those with a physician associate degree and who have national certification. There is also an available pathway for graduates of SHU’s Master of Science in Physician Associate Studies program.
“As PAs increasingly take on workplace leadership and academic roles, as well as positions within industry and non-profits, supporting that work with advanced knowledge continues to be beneficial,” says Dr. Jason Prevelige, Founding Director of the D.M.Sc. program.
The foundation for the D.M.Sc. program was laid by a committee including Prevelige, Dr. Reynold Jaglal, Dr. Eric Nemec and Dr. Irina Ellison. The program was created to identify how other D.M.Sc. programs functioned and how to improve upon them.
“In addition to deeper insight into the healthcare system, leadership and academics, the D.M.Sc. provides students with the ability to grow their professional networks, both through their classmates, faculty and guest lecturers,” says Prevelige. “The doctoral capstone course provides students with the opportunity to solve real-world problems and conduct publishable research that will improve their workplace.”
Prevelige is a SHU alumnus who graduated from the university in 2004. He later helped develop the university’s PA program.
“I have always felt a strong connection to the university, so when I was approached over a decade ago about being involved with the formation of the PA program, I jumped at the opportunity to be involved,” says Prevelige.
“He served on the founding advisory committee, participated in the program’s early admissions process, helped develop the pediatric curriculum and has taught pediatrics and emergency medicine since the inaugural cohort,” says Jaglal, Chair of Physician Associate Studies.
Prevelige was selected as director after 17 years of work in the field, having recently served as the President and Chair of the Board of the American Academy of Physician Associates, a national representation organization for PAs.
“What makes me so excited about Dr. Prevelige serving in the founding director position is that he understands the evolving needs of the PA profession because he has actively contributed to shaping its future,” says Dr. Karl Minges, Dean of the College of Health Professions.
“When I was then later approached to help with the initial development of the D.M.Sc. program, I never expected it to lead to a full-time faculty role,” says Prevelige. “When that opportunity presented itself, however, it just felt right. Like coming home.”
Going forward, Prevelige plans on expanding the program, both overseas at SHU’s Dingle campus and the university’s connections in Spain, as well as a professional development residency weekend.
“I believe the program has tremendous potential. In the near term, our priority will be delivering an excellent experience for the inaugural cohorts, assessing program outcomes, supporting meaningful capstone projects and building a strong community among students, faculty, alumni and practicing PAs,” says Jaglal.
“I anticipate it being one of the most sought-after D.M.Sc. programs and a model for others,” says Prevelige. “As it continues to grow, I want to see us add additional elective tracks in addition to leadership and education. Ideas include informatics, global health, emergency management and more!”
