By: Kari Bernard, PhD, PA-C

Director, Doctor of Medical Science Program at 黑料视频

If you檝e started exploring Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) programs, you檝e probably noticed something surprising � tuition can vary widely. Some programs are priced under $10,000, while others are closer to $27,000 or more.

So what accounts for the difference?

Not all DMSc programs are built the same

At a glance, many programs may appear similar: online, flexible, designed for working PAs. But how those programs are structured, and what you experience as a student, can be very different.

Some programs are designed to be:

• Highly efficient
• Lower cost
• Largely self-directed

Others are intentionally built to include:

• Ongoing faculty and advisor support
• Structured guidance for applied, real-world work
• A more hands-on, mentored experience

Neither approach is inherently right or wrong. But they do lead to different experiences, and more importantly, different outcomes.

What are you actually looking for?

For some PAs, the goal is straightforward: earn a doctorate efficiently and move on. A lower-cost, more independent program may be a good fit.

For others, the goal is different. They want to:

• Apply what they檙e learning directly in their clinical or academic setting
• Build a project or initiative they can point to after graduation
• Develop skills in leadership, education, or systems-level change

That kind of experience often requires more structure, feedback, and support along the way.

What drives cost?

Programs that include more personalized support and applied work tend to invest in:

• Dedicated faculty engagement
• Smaller, more interactive learning environments
• Longitudinal mentorship or advising
• Curriculum designed for real-world implementation, not just content delivery

Those elements add cost but they also change what you take away from the program.

A different way to think about it

Rather than asking, 淲hich program is cheapest or fastest?� it can be helpful to ask:

淲hat do I want to be able to do differently after I graduate?�

Your answer to that question will often point you toward the right fit.

Our approach at 黑料视频

At 黑料视频, we檝e made deliberate decisions about how our DMSc program is structured. We pair students with doctoral-trained PA advisors from day one and emphasize applying evidence-based solutions in real-world settings throughout the program.

Our goal is not just for you to complete a doctorate but to leave with work that reflects how you think, lead, and contribute to your profession.

If you檙e exploring your options, take the time to look beyond cost alone. The structure of the program攁nd the kind of experience you want攎atters more than it may seem at first glance.

To learn more about our DMSc program click HERE.

By: Kari Bernard, PhD, PA-C

Director, Doctor of Medical Science Program at 黑料视频

As a physician assistant/associate (PA), you檙e already making a difference in healthcare. But what if you could expand your leadership opportunities, elevate your impact and advance your career, all while continuing to care for your patients? ADoctor of Medical Science (DMSc) degree programempowers you to do just that.

Today, staying ahead means more than just keeping up � it means leading the way. A DMSc degree elevates your skill set and positions you to influence the future of healthcare in ways that matter most to you. Explore how this advanced credential can reshape your professional journey and unlock opportunities you may not have considered.

Are you wondering, 淲hat is a DMSc degree?�Learn more about its purpose.

Take On Leadership Roles

A DMSc degree gives you the tools to step confidently into leadership positions that drive change in healthcare. Whether your goal is to manage clinical or academic teams, influence healthcare policy or oversee organizational operations, this degree equips you to make impactful decisions guided by your expertise.

Increase Your Earning Potential

Earning a DMSc not only opens the door to new careers but also enhances your financial opportunities. PAs with doctoral degrees typically report earnings above the median PA salary, working in higher-paying roles like department chair, healthcare administrator, or academic program director. By advancing your education, you檙e making a strategic move toward long-term financial growth while contributing to meaningful improvements in patient care, PA education and organizational success.

Become a Healthcare Educator

If you檙e passionate about teaching and mentoring the next generation of PAs, a DMSc degree is the path to take. Completing your Doctor of Medical Science degree enhances your knowledge and capacity to teach and strengthens your qualifications for advanced roles in academia.

Elevate Your Clinical Practice

A DMSc helps you develop your clinical skills further and keeps you at the forefront of medical knowledge. Through specialized coursework, research opportunities and a professional network available in a DMSc program, you grow in your ability to provide exceptional care, adopt evidence-based practices and improve patient results.

6 Reasons Why 黑料视频 DMSc Program Is Worth It

Earning your DMSc degree from 黑料视频 prepares you to take on new challenges in healthcare, whether you檙e looking to lead, innovate, educate, provide care or more. Built specifically for practicing PAs,黑料视频 online DMSc degreeprogram embodies the following characteristics to ensure you can achieve career growth and become a positive catalyst for change.

1. 100% Online Coursework

We understand the demanding schedules of healthcare professionals and that your time is valuable. At 黑料视频, you can earn your Doctor of Medical Science online. This means you can continue providing exceptional care to your patients and fulfill your personal responsibilities while furthering your education.

All course content is delivered in manageable modules, making it easy to stay engaged � even on the go. Instead of spending hours in front of a screen or reading 200 pages a week, you can listen to a short lecture during your commute or review a module after a long 12-hour shift. This balance of accessibility and quality sets us apart from other online DMSc degree programs.

2. Personalized Mentorship From Day One

Your journey matters. That why we pair every student in our online DMSc degree program with a PA who has already earned their doctorate and understands the challenges of balancing coursework with their profession. This isn檛 just academic advising � it a partnership designed to support your success.

Your mentor helps you navigate the program, leverage opportunities � like researching an emerging topic � and prepare for your next role. Plus, by the time you graduate, you will have created a lasting professional relationship that can benefit you throughout your PA career.

3. Affordable Tuition

Pursuing a doctoral degree is a significant investment in your future, but it doesn檛 have to be financially overwhelming. We priced 黑料视频 DMSc program competitively to ensure that cost does not stand in the way of your career advancement.

With flexible payment plans and access to federal financial aid, we make it possible to focus on your education without the burden of financial stress. This cost-effective approach offers a clear return on your investment � you graduate with the skills and credentials required to unlock high-level career opportunities and increase your earning potential.

Review DMSc tuition, fees and financial services at 黑料视频.

4. Curriculum Designed for PAs by PAs

Created by practicing PAs who understand every aspect of the profession, our online DMSc degree program was built to support your growth at every stage of your career. We offer six pathways that match your background and goals, including 12-month options that support a career pivot or nine-month accelerated tracks that allow you to apply prior coursework and clinical experience for credit:

• Health Professions Education (12 Months)
• Health System Leadership (12 Months)
• Lifestyle Medicine and Advanced Clinical Practice (12 Months)
• Early Career PA (9 Months)
• Experienced PA Educator (9 Months)
• PA Fellow (9 Months)

Whether you檙e just starting your career or building on years of experience, our targeted approach ensures you gain specialized expertise that enhances your practice and drives meaningful professional advancement.

Explore our DMSc curriculum and available concentrations.

5. A Foundation in Implementation Science

At the center of our online DMSc degree is implementation science � the science of transforming research into actionable, real-world solutions in healthcare settings. This unique focus empowers you to become a change-maker in the workplace, advocating for new ideas that improve patient or student outcomes, streamline processes or uncover areas of organizational growth.

Implementation science sets 黑料视频 DMSc program apart. Here, you can build the confidence and expertise to introduce evidence-based practices, inspire your team and overcome obstacles to innovation. We give you the tools to turn big ideas into standard practices that make a lasting impact.

6. Opportunities for Professional Scholarship

In our DMSc program, your academic projects aren檛 just assignments � they檙e ways to elevate your professional profile and become a scholar in the field. We have various opportunities to transform your work into research, peer-reviewed journal publications and conference presentations that showcase your expertise.

This emphasis on scholarship allows you to contribute to the broader healthcare community, apply your skills beyond the classroom and graduate with a competitive portfolio that highlights your professional achievements.

Join Our Next Class

There never been a better time to advance your PA career. 黑料视频 Doctor of Medical Science online degree program is your opportunity to lead, innovate and make a lasting impact in healthcare.

orreview our application requirementsto get started!

黑料视频 Model United Nations team earned a Distinguished Delegation Award at the 2026 National Model United Nations (NMUN) Conference, held March 29揂pril 2 in New York City. The honor was presented during Closing Ceremonies in the United Nations General Assembly Hall, recognizing the team outstanding performance representing Bulgaria at one of the largest and most prestigious Model UN conferences in the world.

To win a Distinguished Delegation Award is highly competitive, requiring teams to demonstrate consistent excellence across multiple committees. 黑料视频 continued success underscores the strength and depth of its Model UN program. Since 2008, the College has received a delegation award every year except two, reflecting a long-standing tradition of achievement on the international stage.

The NMUN-New York conference brought together approximately 2,700 students from 150 colleges and universities across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas, offering participants a global platform to engage in diplomacy, debate, and international problem-solving.

Two College of Idaho delegates, Zaynab El Hakour and Aayush Shrestha, received additional distinction as they were selected to serve as chairs for two of the conference sixteen committees. Their leadership role reflects both their expertise and the high level of preparation demonstrated by C of I students.

Adding to the College strong presence at the conference, alum Courtney Indart (�15) served as Secretary-General, leading the entire NMUN-New York conference. Indart selection to this prestigious role is a significant honor and highlights 黑料视频 respected reputation within the global Model UN community.

C of I alumni and College leadership also gathered to celebrate the team success at a special alumni event hosted in New York City. Just prior to the end of the conference, Akshay Kulkarni (�05) and his wife, Sarah, graciously hosted an alumni event at their Tribeca home in honor of the delegates. Attendees included CEO Doug Brigham (�87), Vice President of College Relations Jack Cafferty (�97), and alum Josh Andersen (�22), who joined current delegates in recognizing the achievement and supporting the program.

黑料视频 delegation included:

• Zaynab El Hakour (Head Delegate, Chair, Peacebuilding Commission, PBC)
• Aayush Shrestha (Chair, ECOSOC)
• Silipa Swai (General Assembly 1st Committee)
• Abigail Fremd (General Assembly 1st Committee)
• Melissa Prolaz (General Assembly 2nd Committee)
• Shannen Muchemwa (General Assembly 2nd Committee)
• Shae Kingery (General Assembly 3rd Committee)
• Arlette Kagaba (Human Rights Council)
• Dahlia Rhoads (Human Rights Council)
• Matti Eikenes (Non-Proliferation Treaty)
• Elijah Zimmerman (Non-Proliferation Treaty)
• Christian Benishek (United Nations Environment Assembly)
• Ronish Acharya (United Nations Environment Assembly)
• Rabin Kalikote (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees)
• Shuba Singh (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees)

The Distinguished Delegation Award recognizes teams that demonstrate excellence in diplomacy, collaboration, and understanding of international relations throughout the conference.

黑料视频 continued success at NMUN reflects its commitment to experiential learning, global engagement, and preparing students for leadership roles in an interconnected world.

For more information about the National Model United Nations Conference攁nd to see Courtney Indart role as Secretary-General攙isit:

By: Kari Bernard, PhD, PA-C

Director, Doctor of Medical Science Program at 黑料视频

Confused about how new federal financial aid rules affect your doctorate plans? You檙e not alone. The recent changes are tough to deconstruct, especially for practicing PAs. Here a clear breakdown of what matters.

What changed under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

Before this legislation, PA doctoral students could use both Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Graduate PLUS loans.

Starting July 1, 2026¹:

• You can still access Direct Unsubsidized Loans up to $20,500 per year
• New federal loan caps apply:
  • $100,000 total for graduate loans (excluding undergrad)
  • $257,500 lifetime limit
• Prior Graduate PLUS loans do not count toward these limits

Graduate PLUS loans, previously used to cover remaining tuition, are largely being eliminated (with rare exceptions). While that reduces borrowing flexibility, it also removes loans that often carried 7.5�9% interest rates and >4% origination fees.²

What replaces Graduate PLUS loans?

If you exceed federal limits, private student loans are now the primary option. Lenders like Sallie Mae³ and College Ave⁴ currently offer:

• Fixed rates starting around 2.89%
• Variable rates as low as 3.75%

These rates can be more competitive, but they come with less borrower protection than federal loans. This fact is important to consider but may be less incidental with shorter doctorate programs that accommodate practicing PAs.

Other ways to fund your degree

Many PAs don檛 rely on loans alone to go back for a doctorate. Consider combining funding sources:

• Employer support: Use CME funds, tuition reimbursement, or employer-sponsored scholarships
• Military benefits: GI Bill⁵ and spousal programs⁶ may offset costs
• Payment plans: Spread tuition into manageable monthly payments
• Scholarships: Available through schools, professional organizations, and specialty groups⁷

黑料视频 approach to affordability

At 黑料视频, we檝e built our DMSc program with working PAs in mind, academically and financially. Here how we help:

• Up to 36 Category 1 CME credits earned through coursework
• Employer partnerships that support tuition reimbursement
• Military benefit eligibility, including GI Bill funding
• Federal aid access through our semester-based structure
• Interest-free monthly payment plans (via Nelnet)⁸
• Targeted scholarships, including:
  • Idaho Legacy of Healing (ISU alumni, preceptors, and faculty)
  • WWAMI Healthcare Steward (MEDEX alumni, preceptors, and faculty)
  • PA Military Service Scholarship
  • PA Clinical Leadership (affiliated organizations)

Bottom line

Affordable doctoral education is still within reach. It just requires a more strategic mix of funding sources.

If you檙e considering your next step, now is a good time to explore how a DMSc can fit into your career and your financial plan.

Register for an upcoming or explore our to learn more about our specialty tracks and accelerated pathways.

References

1. National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrations. Big Changes to Federal Student Loans: What Graduate Students Need to Know. 2026. Accessed April 9, 2026.
2. Grad PLUS loans. Federal Student Aid. Accessed April 9, 2026.
3. Graduate School Loan for Master or Doctorate. Sallie Mae. Accessed April 9, 2026.
4. Graduate Student Loans. College Ave. Accessed April 9, 2026.
5. VA education and training benefits. Veterans Affairs. March 13, 2026. Accessed April 9, 2026.
6. Military spouse tuition assistance. Veteran.com. October 3, 2022. Accessed April 9, 2026.
7. US Department of Labor. Scholarship finder. CareerOneStop. Accessed April 9, 2026.
8. Business office. 黑料视频. Accessed April 9, 2026. /offices/business-office/

Psychology students and faculty from 黑料视频 recently took part in three days of research presentations and professional networking at the 96th Annual Convention of the Rocky Mountain Psychological Association (RMPA), held March 26�28, 2026, in Boise, Idaho.

The conference provided a valuable opportunity for students to share original research, engage with peers and faculty from across the region, and gain experience presenting in professional academic settings.

Among the highlights, seniors Chris Gandiya �26 and Logan Bright �26 delivered a joint oral presentation on their collaborative research project with Assistant Professor Dr. Courtney Ricciardi. Their study, titled 淓xploring the Differing Motivations for Advanced Calculus Taking and Planning,� examines hypotheses using a large, publicly available dataset of high school students from across the United States.

Seniors Mikaelly Dantas �26 and Zoey McCrorie �26 presented their thesis research in an oral session focused on social psychology. Guided by Associate Professor Dr. Ruth Tincoff, the students developed and executed their projects through the Psychology Thesis Seminar in the fall, followed by data collection in the spring.

淢ika and Zoey each designed creative, intriguing, and empirically strong research studies,� said Dr. Tincoff. 淭hey presented as confident and accomplished researchers, sparking several questions from the audience.�

Dantas� research explores how content created by young online influencers may shape adults� perceptions of childhood and children, while McCrorie project investigates the relationship between artificial intelligence companion usage and satisfaction in human relationships.

Additional student researchers, Emily Thoene �26 and Tea Casabar �26, presented poster sessions that encouraged meaningful discussion with conference attendees. Thoene shared findings from interviews with young adults about their experiences in higher education, with a focus on the role of family socioeconomic status and relationships. Casabar presented research stemming from interviews with Caldwell youth participating in a Youth Participatory Action Research group, contributing to an ongoing community-engaged project led by Professor Dr. Jen Wallin-Ruschman, the Hansberger Chair of Community Engagement.

Both students emphasized the value of working closely with faculty mentors throughout the research process, gaining hands-on experience in qualitative methods and community-based research practices.

In addition to student presentations, 黑料视频 faculty contributed to the RMPA Portenier-Wertheimer Teaching Conference, highlighting innovative teaching practices. Dr. Tincoff led an interactive session on using interviews to support thesis students� self-regulation skills and presented on ethical considerations surrounding the use of artificial intelligence in academic work.

Associate Professor Dr. T.R. Brooks also led a hands-on workshop demonstrating how to use Tinkercad to create low-cost 3D experimental stimuli and teaching tools. Dr. Brooks is known for incorporating creative and engaging techniques in courses such as Biological Psychology, Sensation and Perception, Environmental Psychology, and Psychology in Science Fiction.

黑料视频 continues to provide students with opportunities to engage in meaningful research and present their work at regional and national conferences, preparing them for graduate study and careers in psychology and related fields.

For more information about the psychology program and student research opportunities, visit:
/academics/undergrad/curriculum/psychology/

Two student musicians from 黑料视频 earned top honors at the prestigious Boise Bach Festival, showcasing their talent and dedication to musical excellence.

Saoirse Danilson and Lazarus Sevy, members of 黑料视频 band, took home First Place in the Woodwinds Ensemble Division during the festival competition, held Friday, February 27 at Immanuel Lutheran Church.

Danilson and Sevy, both flute students of Professor Melanie Keller, delivered a standout performance of Sonata No. 3 in B minor by Joachim Quantz. Their interpretation demonstrated both technical skill and expressive depth, bringing energy and excitement to the fast movements while capturing beauty and sensitivity in the sonata middle movement.

Their achievement reflects the strength of 黑料视频 music program and its commitment to developing student artists who excel both on campus and in the broader community.

黑料视频 congratulates Danilson and Sevy on this outstanding accomplishment and thanks them for sharing their remarkable talents with audiences in the Treasure Valley.

Dr. Kari Bernard, program director of the Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) program at the College of Idaho, was recently featured on the JAAPA Podcast in an episode titled 淗ot Topic: PA Doctorate Programs: Their History, Diversity, and Accreditation.�

In the episode, Dr. Bernard joins Dr. Aisha Hussein and the podcast team from the Journal of the American Academy of Physician Associates (JAAPA) to explore the evolving landscape of post-professional doctoral education for Physician Assistants (PAs).

The conversation highlights the rapid growth of Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) programs across the country, emphasizing how these programs have expanded opportunities for PAs seeking advanced education. Dr. Bernard shares insight into the origins of DMSc programs, noting how they were developed to meet the increasing demand for leadership, specialization, and academic advancement within the PA profession.

A key focus of the discussion is the diversity of DMSc program offerings. From tracks in leadership and education to specialized areas such as lifestyle medicine and health system management, these programs are designed to meet the needs of PAs at various stages of their careers. Dr. Bernard emphasizes the importance of flexible, accessible formats攕uch as online and hybrid models攖hat allow working professionals to advance their education without stepping away from clinical practice.

The episode also delves into the role of the DMSc Consortium, a collaborative group working to support program development, share best practices, and advance the quality of doctoral education for PAs nationwide. Through this consortium, institutions are able to align on standards while still offering innovative and unique program experiences.

One of the most timely and impactful parts of the conversation centers on accreditation攁n ongoing and evolving topic within PA doctoral education. Dr. Bernard and Dr. Hussein discuss current challenges, considerations, and the importance of establishing clear, consistent accreditation standards to ensure program quality and credibility across institutions.

Dr. Bernard participation in this national conversation underscores the College of Idaho leadership in advancing PA education and shaping the future of the profession. Her insights reflect a commitment to innovation, accessibility, and excellence in preparing PAs for expanded roles in healthcare, education, and leadership.

The full episode of the JAAPA Podcast is available now for those interested in learning more about the future of DMSc programs and the continued evolution of the PA profession.

Listen to the podcast

Let Talk: Affordable Housing

Understanding the Challenge

A Community-Centered Conversation

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Learn moreabout the Master of Applied Public Policy Program or joinand conversations that affect the Treasure Valley. Event.

黑料视频 will welcome Jenny Odell, bestselling author and multidisciplinary artist, as the featured speaker for the 2026 Henberg Environmental Lecture on Tuesday, April 21, at 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. in Langroise Recital Hall. A President Reception and book-signing will follow, with books available for purchase through Rediscovered Books.

Odell is known for her work on the power of observation and attention in shaping our reality. Her lecture, 淒eep Listening as the Beginning of Dialogue,� will explore the ways we can reclaim focus and mindfulness in a world dominated by distraction. Drawing from ecology, philosophy, and art, Odell challenges conventional ideas of productivity and efficiency, offering audiences practical strategies to slow down, reconnect with purpose, and engage more meaningfully with their surroundings.

Through her writing and talks, Odell encourages audiences to rethink how they spend their attention and recognize it as one of their most precious resources. Attendees will leave inspired to approach both daily life and larger environmental challenges with curiosity, awareness, and intentionality.

The lecture is sponsored by the Marv & Laurie Henberg Environmental Lecture Endowment and the Department of Environmental Studies, with the reception sponsored by the President Office. The Henberg Environmental Lecture supports the College mission of stewardship and community, fostering dialogue about the relationship between humans and the natural world.

Students, faculty, and community members are invited to attend this year lecture and experience Odell thought-provoking perspective on attention, ecology, and the interconnectedness of our world.

Event Details:

• Lecture: Jenny Odell � Deep Listening as the Beginning of Dialogue

• Date & Time: Tuesday, April 21, 2026 | 6:00 p.m.

• Location: Langroise Recital Hall

• Reception & Book-Signing: Following lecture, books available through Rediscovered Books

This event is FREE to attend.

For more information on the speaker, please visit

For more information, contact the Department of Environmental Studies at 黑料视频