Wake Forest University School of Medicine

Wake Forest University School of Medicine prepares the next generation of health care leaders through cutting edge education and training programs, including MD, PA Studies, Academic Nursing and biomedical graduate programs. 

PA Studies 

From its beginning in 1969, the Wake Forest Physician Assistant (PA) program has produced highly capable, compassionate PAs who deliver patient-centered care. A recognized leader in PA education and PA-led research, the Wake Forest University School of Medicine Department of PA Studies currently offers two degrees: 

• Master of Medical Science (MMS) – 24-month, in-person program preparing students to become licensed PAs 
• Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) – 24-month, online program equipping PA leaders to help shape the future of health care, research and medical education 

The department also partners with other Wake Forest University schools to offer sequential degree programs, including the PhD/MMS program and the Emerging Leaders Program, which enables students to earn either a Master of Science in Management or a Master of Legal Studies before beginning their MMS degree.  

The PA profession is consistently ranked one of the best jobs in America and one of the top jobs in health care. PAs practice in every specialty and work setting across the United States. According to the American Academy of Physician Associate (AAPA), the demand for PAs is so high that three quarters of PAs receive multiple job offers upon graduation. 

Wake Forest University Biomedical Graduate Programs 

The School of Medicine has 18 total Biomedical Graduate programs with PhD, MS and Certificate options. Teammates interested in advancing their current professional career may be interested in these four programs in particular: 

• Clinical Research Management MS – online 
• Translational and Health System Science MS & CRT - post-professional program 
• Biomedical Research MS - in-person 
• Translational Biotechnology MS & CRT - the research pathway is in-person and the business pathway is online 

To learn more, please visit the Biomedical Graduate program  site, or contact our admissions team by email or call 336-716-4303. 

Department of Academic Nursing

Rooted in a proud legacy dating back to 1942, the Department of Academic Nursing at Wake Forest University School of Medicine is committed to shaping the future of healthcare through innovation, inclusion and excellence. Guided by our motto -- Impact, Include, Innovate, Inspire -- we provide transformative, learner-centered education that empowers nurses to lead and advocate for improved care delivery.

We offer two distinguished Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) tracks:

• DNP with Nurse Anesthesia Specialization: A rigorous, three-year, 90-credit program that combines distance learning with hands-on clinical experiences, simulation and global health opportunities. Accredited for 10 years by the Council on Accreditation, this program prepares graduates for full-scope nurse anesthesia practice with advanced leadership skills. 
• DNP- post-Master’s with Leadership Focus: A 24-month, 30-credit program designed for working professionals in a cohort model. Delivered primarily online with periodic synchronous sessions, it culminates in a leadership practicum that equips graduates to drive healthcare improvement for patients and communities. 

Join a community dedicated to your success and experience programs that inspire bold action and lasting impact in healthcare.