Testimonials DMSc
Lulu Gizaw, DMSc, PA-C
"My time in this doctoral program was transformative. It not only provided me with a solid academic foundation but also instilled in me a lifelong interest in research and learning. I am immensely grateful for the opportunities, mentorship, and experiences that have shaped my academic and professional trajectory. This program has undoubtedly prepared me to make meaningful contributions to my field, and I would wholeheartedly recommend it to aspiring scholars seeking a rigorous and enriching doctoral experience."
Thomas Rosen, DMSc, PA-C
"Prior to starting the SIU DMSc program, I had some concerns about whether I would be able to handle the course load while working clinically 50-60 hours/week. Although it certainly required some work and some time, I was able to manage my schedule well. I successfully completed the program and conferred my degree a couple of months ago, and immediately transitioned to PA education. Earning the DMSc degree from SIU has had a tremendously positive impact on my career and my life."
Macy Henson, DMSc, PA-C
"The SIU Medicine DMSc program enabled me to achieve my goal of earning a doctorate degree while simultaneously managing my responsibilities as a PA educator, wife, mother, and foster parent. The program's coursework was designed with flexibility, making it possible to balance these various roles effectively."
Belen Ramos, DMSc, PA-C
"I decided to advance my degree since PAs are trained to be on the cutting edge of medical knowledge in whichever areas we are blessed to practice and change our patients' lives. The SIU DMSc program offered me the flexibility to work full-time and complete the scholastic requirements in a timely manner. Every PA must prioritize gaining expertise in global health, disaster medicine, and health law. These areas are essential for providing effective and comprehensive care in this rapidly changing world. Prospective options are available for me at my workplace - both promotion by grade and role. I appreciate the supportive team at the SIU-DMSc program!"
L. Kristen Schloemann, DMSc, PA-C
"As a full-time PA and mother of four, I was concerned about managing my doctorate studies. However, the DMSc program at SIU is designed for busy PAs. This experience expanded my knowledge and abilities as both a clinician and teacher. I am grateful for the personal growth and insights gained over the past year!"
Andrea Fox, DMSc, PA-C
The SIU DMSc experience has taught me to have a greater appreciation for research and impactful change. Much to my surprise, even my patients have been cheering me on and have been excited to hear of my successes through this year-long journey. Since acquiring my DMSc I have been asked to be the PI in three research studies and invited to speak at three conferences. I feel the level of credibility I receive within my small subspecialty is notably higher with this "expected" degree. I am grateful for the opportunities I know this endeavor will bring to my future."
James Van Rhee, DMSc, PA-C
"The design of the program has not only allowed me to continue to work while in the program, but it has allowed me to apply the coursework on an almost daily basis in my role as a PA educator. The courses not only cover the theory but provide practical, hands-on experience. As a senior leadership member in PA education, I know when hiring graduates of this program they have received the education and knowledge needed to step immediately into an active role as a PE educator."
Jennifer Sanders, DMSc, PA-C
"The most valuable takeaway from my DMSc education was the comprehensive understanding I gained in evidence-based, advanced clinical skills, research components, and leadership training. These unique features collectively equipped me with a well-rounded skill set to excel professionally."
Taylor McClard, DMSc, PA-C
"The SIU DMSc program has enabled me to become a well-rounded P that is better prepared for academic and leadership roles. The faculty was very responsive, supportive and accommodating to the working PA. This online program, made by the PAs for PAs, is essential for creating personal connections and the lifelong learning skills needed to become a valuable leader in the PA profession."
Matthew A. McQuillan, DMSc, PA-C, MS, DFAAPA
"I highly recommend the SIU DMSc program with its one-year, fully online curriculum. The courses are relevant and build on current knowledge and skills. The scholarly project courses are well-designed and provide the foundational education that culminates in a project suitable for publication in a professional journal. This is precisely what I was looking for, as I needed a doctoral program that could fit into my already busy life."
Captain James A. Chally, DMSc, PA-C
"Trepidation is how I would describe my feelings going into the DMSc program at SIU while also balancing my clinical practice, faculty responsibilities, family time, and military commitment in the National Guard. Was it hard? Yes. Was it doable? Definitely. Was it valuable in providing me with the skills and education to help me achieve my goals through career progression and help pave the way to work at the peak of my license in an increasingly competitive market? Absolutely! My goal going into SIU's DMSc program was to use the Skills and education to progress in my career. Upon graduation I already have multiple interviews lined up for director level positions. Completing this degree has put me in a position to be competitive for the career progression I envisioned for myself."
Christine Albers, DMSc, PA-C
"The SIU DMSc format is ideal for the working PA. I was able to balance work, school, and time with family and friends. The faculty are very supportive and want us to succeed in this program as it is taught by PAs for PAs."
Stacey Becker, DMSc, PA-C
"The clinical practicum allowed for the application of the skills which were learned and fostered through the program to be reflected upon in a personal and meaningful way. The progressive nature helped to develop accountability for the project as well as a sense of accomplishment upon completion. By having goals that were applicable to my own practice integrated into the DMSc curriculum, I was able to apply my learning in real time."
Major Matt Schneider, DMSc, PA-C
"SIU DMSc has enhanced my practice by providing enrichment to subject matter that previously had not been exposed to. The overall experience has been amazing and the faculty have been incredibly supportive. I am using my knowledge and experience gained in this program to take on a role as legislative committee chair for my state PA organization and I have no doubts about the success I will achieve in that role."
Halley Barke, DMSc, PA-C
"I decided to advance my degree because I feel that as a profession, this is something we need to do in staying true to our mission of being lifelong learners and remaining relevant among our peers."
Courtney Ledbetter, DMSc, PA-C
Pursuing my DMSc while working full-time was not difficult. The asynchronous course delivery allowed me to work ahead if needed. Due dates were planned well in advance and consistent throughout the program. The faculty was friendly, approachable, and invested in my success.
Cheng Hsieh, DMSc, PA-C
The education practicum improved my design of courses and objectives, test writing, classroom teaching, lecture writing, student evaluation and feedback, understanding of the ARC-PA Accreditation standards and process, and helped me improve in my current role in PA education through better academic, administrative, and practical knowledge and skills.
Kassie Jones, DMSc, PA-C
The DMSc program at SIU has encouraged me to think outside of the box. It has provided a greater understanding of healthcare policy, management, and leadership. The DMSc program has been essential in advancing my personal goals as a PA and is contributing to the advancement of the rapidly changing PA profession by empowering PAs to become skilled and valuable leaders, independently, organizationally, politically, and globally.
J. Paul Bueza, DSMc, PA-C
"Completing the SIU School of Medicine DMSc program has been significantly beneficial. It has not only helped with opening doors to a new career path as faculty, but also provided a “deeper dive” and a more thorough understanding of the varying facets of healthcare. It has reinvigorated my personal drive towards being a better PA."