The Master of Science (MS) in PA Studies is a 131-credit course of study that includes a didactic (classroom) phase followed by a clinical phase (rotations). The degree requirements and course description are listed in the academic catalog.
Courses in the didactic phase are delivered primarily in person, with occasional online sessions. The didactic curriculum is delivered in a modular format: rather than semester-long courses, modules are anywhere from one to four weeks, focusing on specific organ systems and the medicine related to their care.
The clinical phase occurs over the last 12 months of the program. During this phase, students will travel to rotations to learn with preceptors in the field. Rotations are completed primarily in person, on site at various clinical settings, with possible telemedicine experiences in which preceptors are present in the room, except for the behavioral health rotation, which may be primarily via telemedicine.
- Courses are graded Pass/No Pass. Students are required to complete all curricular components with a Pass. The Academic Progression Policy can be found in the student handbook and provides details about academic expectations, remediation, and deceleration.
- Travel during the clinical phase is required for all students.
- As with other health professions programs, students are expected to adhere to CDC recommendations and immunization requirements set forth by the State of Oregon and clinical placement sites.
- Students are not required to provide or solicit clinical sites or preceptors.
- Complete policies and procedures describing student requirements can be found in the student handbook.
The program is designed to be completed with full-time study for 27 months. Students are strongly encouraged not to work while enrolled in the school. Any student who chooses to work is required to attend all program related activities and will not be granted an excused absence for work obligations.