The Drexel University College of Medicine Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and Professional Studies recently launched a new graduate program offering a Master of Science Degree in Medical and Healthcare Simulation. This unique program offers advanced training to healthcare professionals to prepare them to teach others how to care for patients in simulation practice environments rather than practicing on patients.

Healthcare simulation can be defined as the opportunity to practice outside of patient care to improve the quality, safety, effectiveness and efficiency of healthcare services. "The goal of the program is to provide a scientific and educational foundation that prepares graduate-level healthcare providers to foster an enduring, productive educational and research-oriented career in simulation. We intend to educate the next wave of leaders in simulation education to better train future generations of healthcare providers," said Sharon Griswold, MD, MPH, director of the new graduate program.

This master's program is intended for individuals with prior training and/or experience in healthcare to provide a much broader foundation of education in simulation-based medical education than currently exists in one format anywhere else locally, nationally or globally. Specifically, this program is geared toward:

• Individuals with healthcare experience, such as nurses, physicians, physician assistants and paramedics who desire additional professional development in simulation education
• Individuals currently working in healthcare education looking to advance their careers
• Healthcare providers looking to transition into a new educational career in simulation

The two-year, part-time program's curriculum is delivered in a blended instructional format. The majority of courses are delivered online. In addition, three one-week intensive simulation practicums take place at the Center City campus at Drexel University College of Medicine. The degree provides students with a core, detailed focus on the many facets of simulation-based healthcare education. Additionally students will be provided with multiple options to pursue related areas of interest upon graduation.