The curriculum design, offered in didactic and experiential components, is based upon the concepts of adult-centered learning and professional education, which focus on mastery of knowledge, skills and attitudes required by the graduate to practice effectively as a PA. The didactic curriculum offers multiple modalities for learning, which include self-directed study, recitation, lecture, integrated clinical cases and laboratory experiences. These modalities assist students in developing the necessary skills to be self-directed life-long learners and effectively apply what they learn in the clinical setting. The clinical curriculum provides core primary care and other learning experiences where students apply knowledge and skills in patient care settings under the supervision and mentoring by licensed health care providers.
The Shenandoah University PA (SUPA) program is offered on a full-time basis only. The length of the program is eight semesters (30 months). The delivery model is designed to prepare students for a rapidly changing health care environment where simple memorization of facts and figures is insufficient for effective clinical practice. Delivery of content includes face-to-face, asynchronous online, and video-teleconferencing. Learning is accomplished through independent study and preparation, lecture and discussions, small-group case-based exercises, and practical application. Interprofessional learning opportunities are integrated throughout the curriculum. As adult learners, it is expected that students will actively engage in independent study, inquiry and clinical rotations outside the classroom to augment learning and to maximize effectiveness of classroom and laboratory contact time.
The SUPA program received approval from ARC-PA in 2016 to expand the program to a satellite site in historic Leesburg, Virginia which operates under the philosophy of two campuses, one class, one faculty. The curriculum is delivered synchronously, utilizing distance learning technology between both campuses, and the program works to ensure equity between the two campuses.
PA Curriculum
| Course Number | Course Name | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Summer 1 | ||
| PA 504 | Medical Physiology and Genetics | 3 |
| PA 511 | Introduction to the Physician Assistant Profession | 1 |
| Subtotal: 4 credits | ||
| Fall 1 | ||
| PA 508 | Anatomy for Physician Assistants I | 4 |
| PA 515 | Medical Interviewing and Physical Assessment I | 2 |
| PAL 515 | Medical Interviewing and Physical Assessment Lab I | 1 |
| PA 530 | Diagnostic Tests and Procedures I | 1 |
| PA 525 | Clinical Medicine I | 4 |
| PA 535 | Pharmacotherapeutics I | 1.5 |
| PA 635 | Clinical Integration Seminar I | 1.5 |
| PA 645 | Professional Seminar I | 0.5 |
| Subtotal: 15.5 credits | ||
| Spring 1 | ||
| PA 509 | Anatomy for Physician Assistants II | 4 |
| PA 517 | Medical Interviewing and Physical Assessment II | 2 |
| PAL 517 | Medical Interviewing and Physical Assessment Lab II | 1 |
| PA 531 | Diagnostic Tests and Procedures II | 1 |
| PA 526 | Clinical Medicine II | 4 |
| PA 536 | Pharmacotherapeutics II | 2.5 |
| PAL 531 | Diagnostics Lab | 0.5 |
| PA 636 | Clinical Integration Seminar II | 2.5 |
| PA 646 | Professional Seminar II | 0.5 |
| Subtotal: 18 credits | ||
| Summer 2 | ||
| PA 507 | Neuroscience | 1 |
| PA 513 | Healthcare Systems and Issues in Healthcare | 1 |
| PA 519 | PA Clinical Skills | 1 |
| PAL 519 | PA Clinical Skills Laboratory | 1 |
| PA 579 | Exposure to Clinical Practice | 2 |
| Subtotal: 6 credits | ||
| Fall 2 | ||
| PA 532 | Diagnostic Tests & Procedures III | 1 |
| PA 614 | Epidemiology, Research and Interpreting Medical Literature | 3 |
| PA 611 | Humanities for the PA Profession | 2 |
| PA 671 | Women’s Health | 2 |
| PA 527 | Clinical Medicine III | 4 |
| PA 537 | Pharmacotherapeutics III | 2.5 |
| PA 647 | Professional Seminar III | 0.5 |
| PA 637 | Clinical Integration Seminar III | 1.5 |
| Subtotal: 16.5 credits | ||
| Spring 2 | ||
| Clinical Rotations* | 10 | |
| PA 600 | Clinical Rotation Seminar I | 1 |
| Subtotal: 11 credits | ||
| Summer 3 | ||
| Clinical Rotations* | 5 | |
| PA 601 | Clinical Rotation Seminar II | 0.5 |
| PA 612 | Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Community Resources | 2 |
| Subtotal: 7.5 credits | ||
| Fall 3 | ||
| Clinical Rotation* | 2.5 | |
| PA 690 | Transition to Practice Supervised Clinical Practice Experience | 4 |
| PA 603 | Capstone Seminar | 1 |
| Subtotal: 7.5 credits | ||
| Nonspecific Term | HP Graduate Professional Elective Credit(s).** | 3 |
| Total non-elective credits | 86 | |
| Grand Total (includes 3-credit didactic elective course)** | 89 |
* Sequence of clinical rotations will vary by student.
** Additional requirement: Each student is required to take at least one 3-credit didactic professional elective course that is interdisciplinary in nature. Scheduling will be determined by the student based on course availability and consultation with advisor. Generally, graduate courses with the HP prefix will be approved; however, students may select other graduate courses to fulfill the elective with the approval of their advisor.
SUMMER 1
PA 504 Medical Physiology and Genetics
This course provides an overview of physiological processes that influence the human organism at the cellular, organ and systemic levels. It includes a discussion of normal function and focuses on how normal physiology impacts upon a patient’s health and well-being. A case study approach is used to assist students in the application of fundamental principles to clinical situations and to begin the process of understanding dysfunction and pathology likely to be encountered in the clinical setting. It also includes an introduction to the scientific concepts related to genetics and molecular basis of disease.
PA 511 Introduction to the Physician Assistant Profession
This course is an overview of the history and philosophy of the physician assistant profession and the role of PAs in the health care field; and includes a review of current professional issues and organizations relevant to the PA profession as well as issues that may impact the profession in the future. This course also includes a review of medical terminology to provide a foundation for further study.
FALL 1
PA 508 Anatomy for Physician Assistants I
This first course provides an in-depth study of human anatomy, including an introduction to anatomical and medical terminology and foundational information on human development and structure fundamental to considerations of function, physical diagnosis, trauma and disease. Using a regional approach, this course places emphasis on obtaining functional knowledge of normal human gross anatomy of the thorax and upper extremities as a basis for solving clinical problems related to these body regions.
PA 515 Medical Interviewing and Physical Assessment I
This course includes the development of the knowledge and skills required to competently take a medical history and perform a physical examination, recognize normal and abnormal findings, and record the findings in the medical record. It also includes an introduction to the art of patient and family/practitioner communication and effective interviewing for the purpose of establishing a health database and follow-up care. This course will provide an overview of the medical record as well as development of writing and organizational skills for medical record keeping.
PAL 515 Medical Interviewing and Physical Assessment Lab I
This laboratory based course will focus on the development of the skills required to competently take a medical history and perform a physical examination, recognize normal and abnormal findings, and record the findings in the medical record. It includes introduction to the art of patient and family/practitioner communication and effective interviewing for the purpose of establishing a health database and follow-up care. This course will provide an overview of the medical record as well as development of writing and organizational skills for medical record keeping.
PA 525 Clinical Medicine I
This course is an intensive study of human diseases and disorders across the lifespan from the perspectives of pathophysiology, epidemiology, etiology, clinical manifestations, progression, therapy (including emergency and surgical treatment when indicated), and prognosis. Emphasis will be on diseases common to primary care practices, and the development of a differential diagnosis and plan based upon the patient’s clinical presentation.
PA 530 Diagnostic Tests and Procedures I
This course is an introduction to the use and interpretation of commonly used diagnostic tools including laboratory studies and radiologic procedures related to clinical disorders.
PA 535 Pharmacotherapeutics I
A study of the general principles of pharmacology including classification, mechanisms of action and the rational use of medications for the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of disease. The appropriate selection, dosing and monitoring of medication is also reviewed.
PA 635 Clinical Integration Seminar I
This seminar course, delivered in a small group format, is designed to develop student skills related to integration of patient assessment and clinical medicine concepts from other courses in their curriculum. Using a patient-centered, problem-based learning method, students will actively explore pertinent aspects of patient care and practice through a case-based approach.
PA 645 Professional Seminar I
This course is designed to develop and enhance interpersonal and professional skills required for clinical practice, effective teamwork and leadership. It will focus of development of professional competence through interprofessional education and professional communication with peers and mentors.
SPRING 1
PA 509 Anatomy for Physician Assistants II
This course provides an in-depth study of human anatomy, including an introduction to anatomical and medical terminology and foundational information on human development and structure fundamental to considerations of function, physical diagnosis, trauma, and disease. Using a regional approach, this course places emphasis on obtaining functional knowledge of normal human gross anatomy of the abdomen, lower extremities and head and neck as a basis for solving clinical problems related to these body regions.
PA 517 Medical Interviewing and Physical Assessment II
This course provides for the development of the knowledge and skills required to competently take a medical history and perform a physical examination, recognize normal and abnormal findings, and record the findings in the medical record. It also includes the art of medical interpretation and the delivery of information to patients and their family members.
PAL 517 Medical Interviewing and Physical Assessment Lab II
This laboratory based course will focus on the development of the skills required to competently take a medical history and perform a physical examination, recognize normal and abnormal findings, and record the findings in the medical record.
PA 531 Diagnostic Tests and Procedures II
This course develops the knowledge of, the proper use, and interpretation of commonly used diagnostic tools including laboratory studies and radiologic procedures related to clinical disorders.
PA 526 Clinical Medicine II
This course is an intensive study of human diseases and disorders across the lifespan from the perspectives of pathophysiology, epidemiology, etiology, clinical manifestations, progression, therapy (including emergency and surgical treatment when indicated), and prognosis. Emphasis will be on diseases common to primary care practices and the development of a differential diagnosis and plan based upon the patient’s clinical presentation.
PA 536 Pharmacotherapeutics II
This course is a study of the general principles of pharmacology including classification, mechanisms of action and the rational use of medications for the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of disease. The appropriate selection, dosing and monitoring of medication is also reviewed.
PAL 531 Diagnostics Lab
This course provides opportunities for students to develop and enhance the complex skills of electrocardiogram (ECG) interpretation and other diagnostic tests. Concepts needed to approach and systematically evaluate ECG readings introduced in the co-requisite course will be reinforced. Interpretation skills will be practiced and reinforced by application to specific disorders and diseases.
PA 636 Clinical Integration Seminar II
This seminar course, delivered in a small group format, is designed to develop student skills related to integration of patient assessment and clinical medicine concepts from other courses in their curriculum. Using a patient-centered, problem-based learning method, students will actively explore pertinent aspects of patient care and practice through a case-based approach.
PA 646 Professional Seminar II
This course is designed to develop and enhance interpersonal and professional skills required for clinical practice, effective teamwork and leadership. It will focus on development of professional competence through interprofessional education and professional communication with peers and mentors.
SUMMER 2
PA 507 Neuroscience
This course provides an introduction to how the nervous system functions to control behavior. It addresses the structure of the nervous system and how it functions under normal and pathological conditions organized by functional system with focus on diagnosis of neurological disorders. Particular attention is paid to the central pathway for each functional systems and the clinical aspects of damage to the system.
PA 513 Healthcare Systems and Issues in Healthcare
This course is an introduction to issues and systems related to the delivery of health care in the United States such as health care settings, health care costs and reimbursement issues, the evaluation of health care quality, an overview of health care provider roles, and a focus on the delivery of health care via a team approach. It will include an introduction to the common policies and legal issues encountered by physician assistants such as liability insurance, privacy rules, and informed consent. Public health principles (including epidemiology) and utilization of public health officials by a PA will also be discussed.
PA 519 PA Clinical Skills
This lecture based course focuses on the development of diagnostic and therapeutic skills including administration of medications, basic surgical skills and clinical procedures commonly performed in primary care physician assistant practice.
PAL 519 PA Clinical Skills Laboratory
This laboratory based course focuses on the development of diagnostic and therapeutic skills including administration of medications, basic surgical skills and clinical procedures commonly performed in primary care physician assistant practice.
PA 579 Exposure to Clinical Practice
This is an experiential learning opportunity that allows for early exposure into a clinical setting. The structure of the course combines didactic learning in the classroom with community-based practical learning. In this first clinical experience, emphasis is placed on developing student skills in eliciting a medical history and performing the appropriate physical exam. The student may also participate in patient assessment and the development of diagnostic, therapeutic and management plans. These occur through objective and guided patient contact experiences supervised by community health care providers.
FALL 2
PA 532 Diagnostic Tests and Procedures III
This course develops the knowledge, the proper use and interpretation of commonly used diagnostic tools including laboratory studies and radiologic procedures related to clinical disorders.
PA 614 Epidemiology, Research and Interpreting Medical Literature
This course is a study of the principles of evidence based medicine including application of techniques for review, interpretation, and analysis of medical/scientific literature. It includes an introduction to epidemiology and biostatistics.
PA 611 Humanities for the PA Profession
This course provides a review of sociologic and humanitarian issues related to the art of medicine including medical ethics, patient experiences of loss, and cultural issues. This course will include an emphasis on the personal development of the PA practitioner.
PA 671 Women’s Health
This course provides an intensive study of the concepts related to the evaluation and care of women during the stages of pregnancy through the postpartum period. It also includes preventive care principles and procedures related to women’s health and disorders specifically related to the female reproductive tract.
PA 527 Clinical Medicine III
This course is an intensive study of human diseases and disorders across the lifespan from the perspectives of pathophysiology, epidemiology, etiology, clinical manifestations, progression, therapy (including emergency and surgical treatment when indicated), and prognosis. Emphasis will be on diseases common to primary care practices and the development of a differential diagnosis and plan based upon the patient’s clinical presentation.
PA 537 Pharmacotherapeutics III
This course is a study of the general principles of pharmacology including classification, mechanisms of action and the rational use of medications for the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of disease. The appropriate selection, dosing and monitoring of medication is also reviewed.
PA 647 Professional Seminar III
This course is designed to develop and enhance interpersonal and professional skills required for clinical practice, effective teamwork and leadership. It will focus of development of professional competence through interprofessional education and professional communication with peers and mentors.
PA 637 Clinical Integration Seminar III
This seminar course, delivered in a small group format, is designed to develop student skills related to integration of patient assessment and clinical medicine concepts from other courses in their curriculum. Using a patient-centered, problem-based learning method, students will actively explore pertinent aspects of patient care and practice through a case-based approach.
SPRING 2
PA 600 Clinical Rotation Seminar I
This seminar is designed to reinforce and expand the student’s knowledge of the clinical medicine application, the business of healthcare and addresses contemporary topics applicable to the PA. Information is delivered via lecture, group work and workshops.
SUMMER 3
PA 601 Clinical Rotation Seminar II
This seminar is designed to reinforce and expand the student’s knowledge of clinical medicine application, the business of healthcare, and addresses contemporary topics applicable to the PA. Information is delivered via lecture, group work and workshops.
PA 612 Health Promotion, Disease Prevention & Community Resources
This course is an introduction to the basic concepts of health promotion and disease prevention and the development of strategies to affect healthy lifestyle changes in the individual and community. This course is an investigation of community resources will also be included. Students will be required to develop and implement an individual health prescription or community service/education project. This course is offered via web-based/computer-assisted instruction and periodic seminars.
FALL 3
PA 603 Capstone Seminar
This capstone is designed to solidify the student’s knowledge and understanding of clinical medicine application, and the business of healthcare and address contemporary topics applicable to the PA.
PA 690 Transition to Practice Supervised Clinical Practice Experience
This rotation provides the student with the opportunity to increase competence in clinical practice. The intent of this rotation is to provide the student with more insight into longitudinal care of patient populations that may include infants, children, adolescents, adults or the elderly. The setting of this rotation is dependent upon the nature of the specific practice and may include experiences in the emergency department, inpatient, outpatient or operating room settings. The student will also incorporate the culmination of knowledge they have acquired through their Clinical Phase in behavioral and mental health.
Note: The following clinical courses will be offered in variable sequence over three semesters during clinical phase of the program depending on availability and student readiness.
PA 680 Family Medicine Supervised Clinical Practice Experience
This rotation provides the student with experience in practicing the principles of Family Medicine. The student will participate in acute and chronic care, including preventive medicine, behavioral and mental health care. The patient population may consist of infants, children, adolescents, adults or the elderly. This rotation will occur primarily in the outpatient setting.
PA 681 Pediatric Medicine Supervised Clinical Practice Experience
This rotation provides the student with experience in practicing the principles of Pediatrics. The student will participate in acute and chronic care, including preventive medicine, and behavioral and mental health care. The patient population may consist of infants, children, adolescents and young adults. This rotation will occur primarily in the outpatient setting.
PA 682 Women’s Health Supervised Clinical Practice Experience
This rotation provides the student with experience in practicing the principles of Women’s Health. The student will participate in acute and chronic care, including preventive medicine, behavioral and mental health care. The patient population may consist of adolescents or adults. This rotation may include experiences in the outpatient, inpatient, operating room or emergency department settings.
PA 683 Emergency Medicine Supervised Clinical Practice Experience
This rotation provides the student with triage, evaluation and management opportunities for patients who present to the emergency department. The patient population may consist of infants, children, adolescents, adults or the elderly. Students will participate in all aspects of emergency medical care that may include participating in various procedures, and management of significant traumatic injuries, acute illnesses, acute complications of chronic illnesses and other less life-threatening conditions.
PA 685 Surgical Medicine Supervised Clinical Practice Experience
This rotation provides the student with experience in practicing the principles of surgery. The student will participate in all aspects of surgical care including pre-operative, intraoperative and post-operative care. The patient population may consist of infants, children, adolescents, adults or the elderly. This rotation will occur in the operating room and may include inpatient and outpatient components.
PA 687 Internal Medicine Supervised Clinical Practice Experience
This rotation provides the student with an opportunity to learn and gain supervised experience in practicing the principles of Internal Medicine. The primary focus of this rotation is following adult and elderly patients with chronic illness. This rotation may include experiences in inpatient and outpatient settings.
PA 689 Elective Supervised Clinical Practice Experience
This elective rotation provides the student with experience in practicing the principles of a medical or surgical specialty. The patient population may consist of infants, children, adolescents, adults or the elderly. The setting of this rotation is dependent upon the nature of the specific practice and may include experiences in the emergency department, inpatient, outpatient or operating room settings.