Application Process
DMSc Application Process
TIMELINE
- Application Deadline: June 1 (for August enrollment)
- Admission Decisions: (Rolling)
- Enrollment Confirmation: June 1
- Orientation: July (dates vary)
- Program Start: August
Admission Requirements
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Educational Requirements:
- Master’s degree from an ARC-PA accredited physician assistant program
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for all graduate coursework
- Current NCCPA certification and state licensure
Professional Experience:
- New and experienced physician assistants who have graduated from an ARC-PA accredited PA program
- Demonstrated clinical competency and professional excellence either in their PA program or clinical practice
Professional Requirements:
- Clean disciplinary record with state licensing boards and NCCPA
- Demonstrated commitment to professional development and lifelong learning
Required Documents
1. COMPLETE THE ONLINE APPLICATION
Note: The online application for the DMSc Degree is not yet available, but will become active upon final approval from the Higher Learning Commission.
Notification of admission is sent after a review of the application and supporting materials. Please contact enrollment@sckans.edu with your questions about the application process and getting started in the program.
2. OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPTS
Transcripts for Southwestern College graduates are on file. All other students should arrange for submission of official transcripts of all prior college/university coursework. Applicants must hold a recognized baccalaureate degree with a grade point average of 3.0 or higher. You can order transcripts from prior college/university coursework online via the National Student Clearinghouse secure site: www.getmytranscript.com.
3. CURRENT CURRICULUM VITAE OR RESUME
4. PERSONAL STATEMENT
Statement must be 500-750 words addressing career goals and motivation for pursuing the DMSc degree.
5. THREE PROFESSIONAL CONFIDENTIAL LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION.
One from a healthcare provider (physician or PA), one from a former educator, and one from an employer/supervisor. Email the link below to your three references and ask them to complete the online recommendation form for graduate programs: www.sckans.edu/graduate-recommendation
6. COPIES OF CURRENT NCCPA CERTIFICATION AND STATE LICENSURE
7. DOCUMENTATION OF CLINICAL EXPERIENCE
Clinical rotations or employment if more than one year from graduation.
Submit all required documents to enrollment@sckans.edu.
OPTIONAL MATERIALS:
- Evidence of scholarly activity (publications, presentations, research projects)
- Awards and recognitions
- Leadership experience documentation
- Volunteer work, committee work, etc…
Selection Process
Phase 1: Application Review
- Academic credentials evaluation
- Professional experience assessment
- Reference review
- Personal statement evaluation
Phase 2: Interview Process
- Interviews are not required; however, the program director may reach out to applicants for further clarification of application materials.
- Applicants may request to speak with the program director to learn more about the program
Phase 3: Final Selection
- Holistic review of all application materials
- Admission committee deliberation and final decisions
- Notification of admission status

