Students must earn passing scores in all phases of the curriculum to be considered for promotion and graduation. Student progress is monitored regularly by the Professional Standards and Promotions Committee (PSPC). Non passing scores in any phase of the curriculum will result in review by the PSPC. Students are expected to achieve certain levels of competency and professionalism as they progress through the curriculum. Promotion from the academic year to the clinical year, and graduation from the School of Physician Assistant Studies, are based on the student’s readiness to assume a professional role, as well as his/her academic performance. While grades are important, the decisions for promotion and graduation are based on the composite picture of both academic performance and professional growth and development.
White Coat Ceremony
Upon successful completion of the didactic phase of the curriculum, students are promoted to the clinical phase. This transition is marked with the White Coat Ceremony during which students are cloaked with their long white clinical coats.
Graduation
The Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree is conferred upon all graduates of the School of Physician Assistant Studies at the School's graduation convocation in June. Graduates also receive a certificate of completion at this ceremony. Upon graduation, graduates are eligible to sit for the national certifying examination (PANCE).
