PHA 508: Biostatistics 

Summer Semester
Semester hours: 1

This course is designed to acquaint the student with the basics of biostatistics and emphasizes how an understanding of these areas is important in clinical medicine. An understanding of biostatistics is important not only for analyzing the results of research, but also for understanding and reducing errors. The course centers on basic techniques of investigating the association of variables and significance of results in a clinical and epidemiological setting.

PHA 509: Professional Practice Issues

Fall, Spring, and Summer Semester
Semester hours: 1

This course is taken sequentially for three semesters (Professional Issues: I, II, and III), and is designed to prepare the student for professional medical practice. The three-credit series covers a wide range of topics to build a solid foundation of ethical, professional, and communication principles necessary for successful practice as a physician assistant.

PHA 518: Allergy/Immunology

Fall Semester
Semester hours: 2

This course introduces the student to the pathophysiology, pathology, clinical medicine, diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, and preventative medicine aspects in the practice of allergy and immunology.

PHA 520: Physical Assessment

Fall Semester
Semester hours: 3

This course prepares students to master the art of taking medical histories and performing physical examinations. The focus is on recognition of "normal" and the significance of "abnormal" findings. A systems approach is used and the material is taught using a lecture, demonstration, and laboratory practicum format. A laboratory session is scheduled weekly to incorporate/practice skills presented in the lectures.

PHA 522: Hematology

Fall Semester
Semester hours: 2

This course introduces the student to the pathophysiology, pathology, clinical medicine, diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, and preventive medicine aspects in the practice of hematology.

PHA 523: Pulmonology

Spring Semester
Semester hours: 2

This course introduces the student to the pathophysiology, pathology, clinical medicine, diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, and preventative medicine aspects in the practice of pulmonology.

PHA 524: Cardiology

Spring Semester
Semester hours: 2

This course introduces the student to the pathophysiology, pathology, clinical medicine, diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, and preventative medicine aspects in the practice of cardiology.

PHA 527: Nephrology

Spring Semester
Semester hours: 2

This course introduces the student to the pathophysiology, pathology, clinical medicine, diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, and preventative medicine aspects in the practice of nephrology.

PHA 531: Behavioral Dynamics

Spring Semester
Semester hours: 2

This course will introduce the student to the complexities of the practice of psychiatry including neurobiology, epidemiology, diagnosis and management of a variety of behavioral health and substance use disorders. Additionally, there is an introduction to the concepts of death, dying and bereavement.

PHA 533: Infections Disease

Fall Semester 
Semester hours: 2

This course introduces the student to the pathophysiology, pathology, clinical medicine, diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, and preventative medicine aspects in the practice of infectious disease.

PHA 535: Gastroenterology

Spring Semester
Semester hours: 1

This course introduces the student to the pathophysiology, pathology, clinical medicine, diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, and preventative medicine aspects in the practice of gastroenterology. 

PHA 538: Clinical Human Anatomy and Physiology

Summer Semester
Semester hours: 4

This course is a fast-paced review of human anatomy and physiology designed to build upon the student’s fundamental knowledge gained in prerequisite courses.  This course will challenge students to begin applying these scientific principles as they relate to patient care in the clinical medicine course work that follows.

PHA 539: Neurology

Spring Semester
Semester hours: 2

This course introduces the student to the pathophysiology, pathology, clinical medicine, diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, and preventative medicine aspects in the practice of neurology. 

PHA 543: Endocrinology

Fall Semester
Semester hours: 2

This course introduces the student to the pathophysiology, pathology, clinical medicine, diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, and preventative medicine aspects in the practice of endocrinology.

PHA 546: Pediatrics

Spring Semester
Semester hours: 2

This course will examine infant and child health and development, focusing on major common pediatric illnesses and their signs, symptoms, and management relative to the primary health care provider. The problem-oriented medical record is presented, i.e., the pediatric history and physical examination. Specific problems of the newborn and older child will be presented for discussion in such areas as immunity and allergy, pharmacotherapy, medical emergencies, preventive health care, and the psychosocial and developmental disabilities specific to pediatrics. Students will learn to perform and demonstrate an infant exam. Specific strategies for physical examination of the pediatric patient will be learned and practiced on live patients in a skills lab.

PHA 547: Ophthalmology

Fall Semester
Semester hours: 2

This course introduces the student to the pathophysiology, pathology, clinical medicine, diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, and preventative medicine aspects in the practice of ophthalmology. 

PHA 549: Oncology

Spring Semester
Semester hours: 1

This course introduces the student to the pathophysiology, pathology, clinical medicine, diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, and preventative medicine aspects in the practice of oncology.

PHA 550: Introduction to Clinical Practice

Spring Semester
Semester hours: 2

This course introduces the clinical practice of medicine through simulated patient care experiences, building upon the foundational skills developed in Physical Assessment. Students will navigate common clinical scenarios, focusing on effective patient communication across both outpatient and inpatient settings. Key competencies include developing differential diagnoses, selecting appropriate diagnostics to interpret, creating comprehensive medical assessments, curating problem lists, and presenting organized case information to other providers. Furthermore, the course emphasizes preventative healthcare, the application of medical literature to pathophysiology, and the formulation of treatment plans. Students are also introduced to administrative essentials, including medical documentation standards, prescription writing, and CPT/ICD-10 coding.

PHA 551: Urology

Summer Semester
Semester hours: 2

This course introduces the student to the pathophysiology, pathology, clinical medicine, diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, and preventative medicine aspects in the practice of urology. 

PHA 556: Surgery

Summer Semester
Semester hours: 2

This course introduces the student to the pathophysiology, pathology, clinical medicine, diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, and preventative medicine aspects in the practice of surgery. 

PHA 557: Otorhinolaryngology

Spring Semester
Semester hours: 1

This course introduces the student to the pathophysiology, pathology, clinical medicine, diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, and preventative medicine aspects in the practice of otorhinolaryngology.

PHA 561: Obstetrics/Gynecology

Summer Semester
Semester hours: 2

This course introduces the student to the pathophysiology, pathology, clinical medicine, diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, and preventative medicine aspects in the practice of obstetrics/gynecology. 

PHA 562: Orthopedics

Summer Semester
Semester hours: 2

This course introduces the student to the pathophysiology, pathology, clinical medicine, diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, and preventative medicine aspects in the practice of orthopedics.

PHA 572: Dermatology

Summer Semester
Semester hours: 1

This course introduces the student to the pathophysiology, pathology, clinical medicine, diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, and preventative medicine aspects in the practice of dermatology.

PHA 574: Rheumatology

Summer Semester
Semester hours: 1

This course introduces the student to the pathophysiology, pathology, clinical medicine, diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, and preventative medicine aspects in the practice of rheumatology. 

PHA 575: Genetic & Molecular Basis of Health & Disease

Summer Semester
Semester hours: 2

The focus of this course is to gain an understanding of the biochemical, molecular, and genetic basis for health and disease with an emphasis on clinical applications. The purpose of this course is to provide students with a knowledge base that can be applied throughout their study of medicine.

PHA 610: Emergency Medicine

Summer Semester
Semester hours: 3

This course reviews the pathophysiology, pathology, diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, and preventive medicine aspects of clinical medicine within the context of emergency medicine. The focus of this course is to prepare students to rapidly recognize, evaluate, and manage acute illnesses and injuries across the lifespan that require emergent care, with emphasis on timely clinical decision-making, patient stabilization, and the performance of essential life-saving procedures. 

PHA 621: Problem-Based Clinical Correlation

Summer Semester
Semester hours: 2

This course is designed to refine students’ critical thinking skills within a problem-based clinical correlation model. Building on the Introduction to Clinical Practice course, students will continue to perfect their ability to critically evaluate, apply, and document clinical information. This includes synthesizing data from medical histories, physical examinations, diagnostic testing, and pertinent medical literature to manage healthcare problems and provide patient education. Additionally, the course introduces advanced concepts such as inpatient documentation and the formulation of inpatient admission and discharge orders.

PHA 636: Patient Safety - Unifying Themes

Summer Semester
Semester hours: 3

Students will employ the Institute of Healthcare Improvement Open School modules on leadership, patient safety, and quality improvement.  Building upon concepts and discussions begun during the didactic year regarding evidence-based medicine, ethics, and professionalism, the student will leave the program with a focus on enhancing patient safety through communication, data gathering, and quality improvement techniques. In addition, students will complete training in substance use.

PHA 638: Case Study and Community Education Project

Summer Semester
Semester hours: 3

Students will apply skills learned from Evidence-Based Medicine: Research, Communications and Applications, and Professional and Medical Practice Issues to choose a case study developed and researched during the clinical rotations. The course will conclude with an oral presentation to second-year peers and the faculty of a literature supported case study and a written 3-5-page paper. Case study development will be mentored by the director of clinical education and supported by the core faculty. Presentations will be delivered the week of graduation. This course also incorporates structured PANCE preparation.

PHA 641: Geriatrics

Summer Semester
Semester hours: 2

This course provides an introduction to gerontology with an emphasis on the normal biological, sociological, behavioral, and environmental changes that occur with age. Consequences of aging from the perspective of primary health care providers will be presented. Principles and methods of multidimensional assessment relative to the recognition and management of medical disease and mental illness with an emphasis on maximizing functional independence is discussed. The skills of history taking and physical assessment in the geriatric population will be taught. Students will understand the end-of-life issues and ethics in palliative care with review of the model of advanced care planning.

Clinical Year

PHA 651: Clinical Rotations I*

Fall Semester
Semester hours: 12

Students complete clinical rotations as assigned by the physician assistant program.

PHA 652: Clinical Rotations II*

Spring Semester
Semester hours: 12

Students complete clinical rotations as assigned by the physician assistant program.

PHA 653: Clinical Rotations III*

Summer Semester
Semester hours: 12

Students complete clinical rotations as assigned by the physician assistant program.

Clinical Rotations 
*These rotations will include the following:

Family Practice Rotation

This six-week core rotation provides supervised clinical experience in the evaluation and management of acute and chronic conditions, injuries, and preventive care across the lifespan within a family medicine setting. Emphasis is placed on the development of advanced history-taking and physical examination skills, clinical reasoning, and the application of evidence-based management strategies. Students will engage in a broad range of primary care procedures while developing proficiency in essential skills, including comprehensive patient assessment and interpretation of diagnostic studies, including chest radiographs and urinalyses.  This rotation further emphasizes interprofessional collaboration, patient safety, and health promotion within the outpatient environment. Students will not function as primary providers or replace clinical staff; all patient care activities will be supervised and reviewed. 

Emergency Medicine Rotation

This core six-week rotation provides clinical experience in the evaluation and management of acute illnesses and injuries in both pediatric and adult populations requiring emergency care. This rotation emphasizes the development of focused history-taking and physical examination skills, clinical decision-making, and the application of evidence-based management strategies. Students will participate in performing essential procedures and interventions under appropriate supervision, including airway management, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, fluid resuscitation, management of electrolyte and acid-base disturbances, laceration repair, interpretation of orthopedic X-rays, and splinting/casting. The rotation also highlights interprofessional collaboration, patient safety, and timely disposition planning within the emergency care setting. Students will not function as primary providers and will not replace clinical staff. All patient care activities will be supervised and reviewed.  

Internal Medicine Rotation

This six-week core rotation provides supervised clinical experience in the evaluation and management of acute and chronic medical conditions in adult patients across inpatient, outpatient, and long-term care settings, as determined by the clinical site. Emphasis is placed on the development of advanced history-taking and physical examination skills, clinical reasoning, and the application of evidence-based management strategies across the continuum of care. Students will participate in the care of patients with complex comorbidities, gaining proficiency in comprehensive patient assessment, interpretation of diagnostic studies (including laboratory data, imaging, and electrocardiograms), and the development of evidence-based management plans. This rotation further emphasizes interprofessional collaboration, patient safety, transitions of care, and follow-up. Students will not function as primary providers or replace clinical staff; all patient care activities will be supervised and reviewed.

General Pediatrics Rotation

This six-week core rotation provides supervised clinical experience in the evaluation and management of infants, children, and adolescents. Emphasis is placed on the development of advanced history-taking and physical examination skills specific to the pediatric population, clinical reasoning, and the application of evidence-based management strategies.  Students will participate in newborn care, routine well-child care, and the management of common acute and chronic pediatric conditions. Learners will gain proficiency in comprehensive pediatric assessment, growth and development, immunization practices, and the interpretation of age-appropriate diagnostic studies. This rotation further emphasizes interprofessional collaboration, patient safety, family-centered care, and health promotion, including anticipatory guidance. Students will not function as primary providers or replace clinical staff; all patient care activities will be supervised and reviewed.

Obstetrics/Gynecology (Women's Health) Rotation

This six-week core rotation provides supervised clinical experience in the evaluation and management of conditions related to women’s health across the lifespan, including both obstetric and gynecologic care. Emphasis is placed on the development of advanced history-taking and physical examination skills, clinical reasoning, and the application of evidence-based management strategies in both outpatient and inpatient settings. Students will participate in routine prenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum care, as well as the evaluation and management of common gynecologic conditions. Additional learning experiences include family planning and contraceptive counseling, screening and management of sexually transmitted infections, cancer screening and prevention, and the assessment of common reproductive health concerns. Learners will develop proficiency in comprehensive patient assessment, interpretation of diagnostic studies, and formulation of appropriate management and follow-up plans.

This rotation further emphasizes interprofessional collaboration, patient safety, and patient-centered care, including education and counseling. Students will not function as primary providers or replace clinical staff; all patient care activities will be supervised and reviewed.

General Surgery Rotation

This six-week core rotation provides supervised clinical experience in the evaluation and management of patients with surgically treatable conditions across the lifespan within a surgical setting. Emphasis is placed on the development of focused history-taking and physical examination skills, clinical reasoning, and the application of evidence-based perioperative management strategies. Students will participate in preoperative assessment and optimization, intraoperative care, and postoperative management, including wound care and recognition of surgical complications, to develop an understanding of operative techniques and interprofessional team roles. Students will engage in a variety of procedural experiences while developing proficiency in essential skills, including interpretation of diagnostic studies relevant to surgical care. This rotation further emphasizes interprofessional collaboration, patient safety, and continuity of care across the perioperative period. Students will not function as primary providers or replace clinical staff; all patient care activities will be supervised and reviewed.

Psychiatry Rotation

This core six-week rotation provides clinical experience in the evaluation and management of psychiatric conditions across the lifespan. This rotation emphasizes the development of comprehensive and focused history-taking, mental status examination skills, clinical reasoning, and the application of evidence-based diagnostic and management strategies. Students will participate in the assessment and management of common psychiatric disorders under appropriate supervision, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, and behavioral emergencies. The rotation also highlights risk assessment (including suicide and violence risk), appropriate use of pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions, interprofessional collaboration, patient safety, and disposition planning within psychiatric care settings. Students will not function as primary providers and will not replace clinical staff. All patient care activities will be supervised and reviewed.

Elective Rotation

This six-week elective rotation provides supervised clinical experience that allows students to explore professional interests and expand their knowledge and skills as future physician assistants. Elective experiences may include additional clinical practice in core disciplines or exposure to medical or surgical subspecialties. Emphasis is placed on the continued development of clinical reasoning, application of evidence-based medicine, and refinement of patient care skills within the chosen area of study. Students will engage in experiences appropriate to the selected elective, with opportunities to enhance patient assessment skills, interpret diagnostic studies, and develop management plans. This rotation further emphasizes professionalism, interprofessional collaboration, and patient-centered care. Students will not function as primary providers or replace clinical staff; all activities will be supervised and reviewed. Syllabi have been developed for all elective rotations.

Students will also be required to complete an online opiate use disorder training, supplemental online learning cases for each rotation, and a Pance prep program that will need to be completed by graduation, with further details, expectations, and evaluation criteria provided in the respective course syllabi.