California Baptist University College of Health Science
“The College of Health Science was founded upon the principle of transforming lives through the health professions. The college’s faculty members have answered their calling to serve and prepare the next generation of professionals for careers in patient care, wellness, fitness and more. We all share a passion for service in the image of Jesus, and we welcome you to come explore your talents and calling from God.”
David Pearson, PhD Dean, College of Health Science
Program Distinctives
CBU’s Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) program is a terminal degree designed for Physician Assistants (PAs) and other advanced practice clinicians. The program focuses on enhancing clinical expertise and preparing graduates for leadership roles in healthcare, research, academia and administration.
Strengthen Clinical Medical Acumen
Students will build upon their career experience and sharpen clinical practice skills through a personalized, clinical medicine project.
Enhance Leadership Skills
Students will participate in a personalized leadership project and be equipped with biblically-based ethical principles and practices at the only school in the Council of Christian Colleges and Universities to offer the degree.
Increase Research Ability
CBU’s DMSc offers students the flexibility to complete their doctoral project on an area of interest, while also equipping students to identify, initiate, lead and disseminate their research effectively.
Program Details at a Glance
Program Length
39 units
1–2 years*
Program
Cost
$33,495**
$795 per unit
$365 per semester general fee
Program Start Term
Asynchronous online Fall (September) WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Class Format
Accreditation
What does Asynchronous mean?
CBU’s asynchronous class format means our online programs provide the maximum amount of flexibility for a minimum amount of interruption to your busy schedule. Additionally, the 8-week format means you can complete your degree twice as fast as a traditional semester schedule.
*Rotations custom built & program length may vary depending on course availability **Based on current academic year. Subject to change.
Transforming lives through the health professions
About California Baptist University
California Baptist University is a dynamic institution that combines academic rigor, innovation, faith and service to empower students to become leaders with a profound impact on the world. With its mission to produce graduates who are academically prepared, biblically rooted, globally minded and equipped to serve, CBU continues to shape the next generation of compassionate, competent and socially responsible leaders.
Our Values
Academically Prepared
At CBU, innovation permeates every aspect of the educational journey. With a forward-thinking mindset, the university leverages emerging technologies, interdisciplinary collaborations and hands-on learning experiences to empower students with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Whether through state-of-the-art laboratories, immersive simulations or collaborative research projects, CBU provides an environment where students are encouraged to explore, experiment and challenge the status quo.
Biblically Rooted
CBU places a profound emphasis on spiritual growth and character development. Rooted in the Christian faith, the university fosters an inclusive community where individuals from diverse backgrounds can explore their beliefs, engage in meaningful discussions and deepen their understanding of themselves and the world around them. Guided by a commitment to integrity, compassion and service, CBU instills in its students a strong moral compass, preparing them to become competent professionals and compassionate leaders who positively impact society.
Globally Minded
Recognizing the interconnectedness of today’s world, CBU embraces a global perspective and prepares students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected global marketplace. The university offers a variety of study abroad programs, international internships and cross-cultural experiences that broaden students’ horizons, deepen their cultural competence and equip them with the skills necessary to excel in a global context.
Equipped to Serve
A cornerstone of CBU’s mission is the integration of faith and service. Through partnerships with local organizations and community initiatives, CBU students actively engage in outreach programs, volunteering their time and talents to address pressing social issues. From assisting underserved populations to promoting environmental sustainability, CBU cultivates a sense of social responsibility, empowering its graduates to make a tangible difference in their communities.
Faculty Spotlight
J. Zapata, DMSc, MS, PA-C Program Director
Dr. Zapata is a Physician Assistant (PA) practicing in the Southern California Area who has a passion for medicine, education, mentorship, and research. Dr. Zapata completed his Undergraduate in Human Biology and minor in Biblical Studies at Biola University, obtained his Master of Physician Assistant Studies at Western University of Health Sciences, and went on to complete his Emergency Medicine Fellowship at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center followed by his Doctor of Medical Sciences (DMSc) at University of Lynchburg. Throughout his career Dr. Zapata has enjoyed working within multiple specialties including Emergency Medicine, Emergency Behavioral Health, and Correctional Health where he has acted as both clinician and faculty, mentoring new providers to prepare them to tackle the dynamic landscape of the healthcare system. When not in the clinic or the hospital, Dr. Zapata has enjoyed contributing to the next generation of PAs through academia with his background in teaching even prior to becoming a PA.
Throughout Dr. Zapata’s career in higher education, he has enjoyed coordinating international internships and community medical service projects, providing conference presentations, producing research publications, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams on research ideas and projects, curriculum design, program development, administrative projects, and providing instruction as PA faculty for a variety of topics in graduate and post-graduate programs. Some of his areas of interest and research include topics of Ultrasonography, Medical Genetics, Emergency Medicine, Clinical Skills & Procedures, Atrial Fibrillation, Faith-Integration and Gamification. During his tenure at California Baptist University, Dr. Zapata has held positions as Principal Faculty working on both the Clinical and Didactic teams, as Director of Assessment developed the PA program’s assessment system alongside the Program Director, and developed the DMSc program curriculum as Program Director.
Admissions Requirements
Application for admission with a $45 application fee.
Official transcript from an accredited college or university reflecting the completion of a Master of Science in PA Studies.
Written statement of purpose OR in-person/virtual program interview (student’s choice). Written statement (500-word maximum) or interview will address:
ο What are your educational goals?
ο How will this program help meet those goals?
ο What makes you a good fit for CBU?
Additional requirements may be requested.
Prerequisites
Successfully passed National Comission on Certification of Physician Assistants certification exam, completion of Masters in PA Studies, and holds a current license to practice as a physician assistant within one of more of the 50 states.
How to Apply
Submit a graduate application at calbaptist.edu/gradapp
Provide any supplemental documents required. 01 02 03
Send official college or university transcripts.
Application Deadline
Rolling Admissions: Accepting applications year-round.
Ready to take the next step? Follow this QR code to start your application!
