Enhancing Healthcare and the Community's Role Through New MSMS Program

DUBUQUE, Iowa - The University of Dubuque continues to build pathways into healthcare careers with the planned launch of an innovative master of science in medical science (MSMS) program that will give students the opportunity to explore clinical careers, strengthen their academic credentials, and enhance their understanding of the role a community plays in health outcomes.

The 10-month, non-thesis master's degree, designed as an "academic enhancer," will start in fall 2027, pending approval from the Higher Learning Commission. Designed to prepare students for medical or professional programs, the MSMS program will serve those who need to complete advanced science courses to qualify for medical school admission and those who want to learn and explore their career options.

"Thanks to its community-oriented curriculum, the Dubuque area will also benefit from the new MSMS program, gaining students who are ready to contribute to nonprofits and other community efforts to help our neighbors in need," said Sarah Cassella, PhD, director of the MSMS program at UD. "Regardless of whether these students go onto medical school and practice in Iowa, they will graduate with a firsthand understanding of a community's role in healthcare, along with the skills to make a difference in a variety of roles."

Cassella's first weeks as the inaugural director of the MSMS program have been full of exciting energy and collaboration. She recently attended the National Association of Advisors for the Health Professions National Conference in New Orleans, Louisiana, where she connected with counterparts from across the country and received professional development to provide students applying for medical school and other health professions programs with the most up-to-date information and guidance.

"At the University of Dubuque, we are committed to helping students discover and achieve their calling," said Adam Hoffman, PhD, vice president for academic affairs at UD. "Dr. Cassella understands that aspiring healthcare professionals need more than strong academic preparation - they need mentorship, guidance, and opportunities to explore how they can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Her student-centered approach will help MSMS students grow in confidence, clarify their professional goals, and prepare for successful futures in medicine and health sciences."

The MSMS program will be supported by a comprehensive suite of modern medical education facilities and technology, integrated into the proposed John and Alice Butler College of Osteopathic Medicine (applicant, seeking accreditation) building located in downtown Dubuque. Students will have access to advanced didactic and clinical spaces such as specialized biomedical laboratories, high-fidelity simulation centers, and anatomy suites. Faculty expertise will also be shared between the medical science and osteopathic medicine programs.

"Having the MSMS program housed within the proposed John and Alice Butler College of Osteopathic Medicine building is also advantageous for informal community-building and mentorship - particularly because the MSMS program is centered on discernment, and seeing the DO student experience firsthand will help MS students decide on their next steps after graduation," Cassella said

Cassella's career in academia began when she was hired as a teaching postdoc at Susquehanna University in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania. Her two years there allowed her to focus on undergraduate education and refine her teaching skills as she applied for tenure-track positions. In 2017, she relocated to Dubuque to serve as a visiting assistant professor of neuroscience at Loras College. She soon transitioned to a tenure-track position and took on the role of program coordinator for the neuroscience program. In late 2024, Cassella took on an additional role as director of the postbaccalaureate pre-med program, as well as pre-health advising. 

Cassella holds a doctor of philosophy in neuroscience from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine in Cincinnati, Ohio, and a bachelor of art in neuroscience from Oberlin College in Oberlin, Ohio. The primary focus in her career has been education.

"Dr. Sarah Cassella brings a rare combination of scientific expertise, educational leadership, and a deep commitment to student success," Hoffman said. "Her experience mentoring pre-health students and developing innovative academic programs makes her exceptionally well-suited to lead the University of Dubuque's new master of science in medical science program as we prepare future healthcare professionals to serve their communities with excellence and compassion."

Cassella and her husband, Sam, live in Dubuque. They have two young boys, Jasper and Graham. They enjoy spending Saturday mornings at the Dubuque Farmer's Market and checking out new playgrounds.