Physician Assistant Studies
Degrees and Certificates
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Master of Medical Science (MMS) in Physician Assistant Studies
Courses
PAS 504: Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
Credits 2This course provides an overview of fundamental public health concepts, such as health promotion and disease prevention across the life span. It covers various aspects of public health, including health screening; disease surveillance, reporting and interventions; the responsibilities of healthcare providers in maintaining the health of the population; patient advocacy; and basic nutrition counseling. Additionally, the course will also cover topics such as safety in the workplace, pediatric and adult immunizations, health screening recommendations for pediatric and adult populations, cancer screening guidelines, dental health, and modifiable risk factors in preventive medicine
PAS 509: Evidence Based Medicine
Credits 2This course is designed to equip students with the essential skills to critically evaluate medical literature and apply evidence-based principles to patient care. In today's rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, clinicians must be able to effectively integrate the latest scientific evidence into their practice to deliver optimal, patient-centered care. Key objectives include interpreting evidence-based practice guidelines, critically evaluating medical research, applying evidence to practice, and integrating clinical knowledge. This course will prepare them to become lifelong learners who can stay abreast of the latest medical advancements and apply them effectively to improve patient outcomes.
PAS 514: Foundations of Clinical Practice
Credits 4This course provides a historical perspective of the Physician Assistant (PA) profession and explores current trends in healthcare and medical ethics. It covers professional responsibilities related to the PAs and other healthcare provider roles within the healthcare team and the system. This course will introduce students to ethical and moral principles, biomedical and legal concepts, risk management strategies, legal definitions, provider responsibilities, informed consent, and confidentiality. The ethical principles of beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, and justice are also examined.
PAS 518: Patient Evaluation I
Credits 3This is the first course in a two-part series designed to introduce students to the art of patient history- taking, medical documentation and developing basic physical examination skills. Students will learn to properly obtain and document patient encounters, utilizing appropriate oral and written communication skills. The course content will include medical terminology, professional ethics, and patient interviewing. It will cover fundamental aspects of history taking and physical examination in adults, as well as variations related to newborns, children, and adolescents. Students will also be introduced to patient education and counseling. Students will develop skills in eliciting and documenting a comprehensive medical history and basic physical examination along with performing fundamental physical exam techniques to prepare them for authentic clinical practice.
PAS 519: Patient Evaluation II
Credits 3This is the second course in a series of two (2) courses. The course covers the foundational knowledge required to systematically perform a comprehensive physical examination. After establishing the foundation, the course then focuses on approaching and diagnosing diseases and disorders of various body systems such as the head, neck, otolaryngologic, ophthalmological, integumentary, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, peripheral vascular, pulmonary, gastrointestinal, nervous, and genitourinary systems based on patient complaint, history, and presentation. Additionally, students will learn about conducting well-child pediatric history and physical examinations, general surveys, vital signs, pain assessment, behavioral evaluation, and mental status examination.
PAS 522: Essentials of Clinical Medicine I
Credits 5This is the first course in a (3) three-part series where students will comprehensively study clinical medicine focusing on each body system in a modular format. Each module covers the anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, etiology, clinical presentation, abnormal physical examination findings, patient assessment, differential diagnosis, diagnostic workup, and complete treatment plan for acute and chronic conditions including patient education and preventative care. The body systems covered in this semester include dermatology, ophthalmology, otolaryngology, rheumatology, immunology, and orthopedics.
PAS 523: Essentials of Clinical Medicine II
Credits 5This is the second course in a (3) three course series where students will comprehensively study clinical medicine focusing on each body system in a modular format. Each module covers the anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, etiology, clinical presentation, abnormal physical examination findings, patient assessment, differential diagnosis, diagnostic workup, and complete treatment plan for acute and chronic conditions including patient education and preventative care. The Body systems covered in this semester include hematology, oncology, cardiology (cardiovascular), pulmonology and gastroenterology.
PAS 524: Essentials of Clinical Medicine III
Credits 5This is the third course in a (3) three course series where students will comprehensively study clinical medicine focusing on each body system in a modular format. Each module covers the anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, etiology, clinical presentation, abnormal physical examination findings, patient assessment, differential diagnosis, diagnostic workup, and complete treatment plan for acute and chronic conditions including patient education and preventative care. The body systems covered in this semester include neurology, endocrinology and genitourinary/renal.
PAS 526: Clinical Integration I
Credits 2This is the first course in a three-part series aimed at instructing students on applying critical thinking skills to assess patients effectively and deliver high-quality patient care. Students will apply the knowledge they gained in other courses to assess and provide care for patients of all ages. This encompasses the impact of social and political determinants of health and the promotion of health and well-being through preventative care. The course utilizes a team-based learning approach to cultivate the critical thinking skills necessary for medical practice and encompasses the contributions of healthcare team members. This course covers dermatology, ophthalmology, otolaryngology, rheumatology, immunology, and orthopedics.
PAS 527: Clinical Integration II
Credits 2This is the second course in a three-course series. This course is designed to cultivate critical thinking skills essential for providing high-quality patient care. Students will apply knowledge gained in other courses to provide care for patients across diverse populations and throughout the lifespan This encompasses the impact of social and political determinants of health and the promotion of health and well-being through preventative care. The course utilizes a team-based learning approach to cultivate the critical thinking skills necessary for medical practice and encompasses the contributions of healthcare team members. This course covers Cardiology, Pulmonology, Gastroenterology
PAS 528: Clinical Integration III
Credits 2This is the third course in a three-course series. This course is designed to cultivate critical thinking skills essential for providing high-quality patient care. Students will apply knowledge gained in other courses to provide care for patients across diverse populations and throughout the lifespan. Emphasis is placed on preventive care, addressing social, psychosocial, and political determinants of health, and optimizing patient well-being. The course utilizes a team-based learning approach to cultivate the critical thinking skills necessary for medical practice and encompasses the contributions of healthcare team members. The course covers neurology, nephrology, and urology systems, while also exploring the roles of other healthcare professionals.
PAS 529: Social & Cultural Aspects of Healthcare
Credits 2This course will introduce students to the medical intervention skills required to provide care for special populations. Discussions during the course will emphasize the importance of culturally competent medical care, advocacy, patient counseling, and medical considerations for patients with disabilities or special healthcare needs. Attention will also be given to the impact of ethnicity, race, gender identity, religion, spirituality, sexual orientation, and social determinants of health. Students will be trained in cultural awareness and humility to help them address patient barriers to healthcare. Furthermore, there will be a strong emphasis on developing and demonstrating professional behaviors and qualities when interacting with patients and healthcare colleagues.
PAS 534: Interprofessional and Population Healthcare
Credits 3This course prepares students for interprofessional, patient-centered care across the lifespan. Students will learn to collaborate with diverse healthcare professionals in simulation settings, focusing on team dynamics, patient-centered approaches, and understanding the PA's role in relation to the roles of various members of the healthcare team.
PAS 538: Special Populations (Pediatrics and Geriatrics)
Credits 2This comprehensive course delves into the unique health challenges faced by both pediatric and geriatric populations. Students will explore the etiology, epidemiology, genetics, clinical manifestations, physical examination findings, diagnostic procedures, treatment options, and prognosis of a wide range of common and complex conditions. Key topics will include pediatric and geriatric health.
PAS 539: Mechanisms of Disease
Credits 3This course will provide a comprehensive overview of the pathophysiology of disease for all major organ systems. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the structural and functional changes that occur in the body because of disease or injury. Students will develop a strong foundation in the underlying mechanisms of disease processes, including cellular and molecular alterations, organ system dysfunction, and clinical manifestations. Emphasis will be placed on applying this knowledge to understanding the pathophysiology of common diseases and disorders.
PAS 547: Medical Spanish Terminology I
Credits 1This is the first course in a 3-course series that allows students to apply medical Spanish terminology in various clinical settings. Focusing on commonly used medical terminology and cultural nuances impacting communication, the course equips students to conduct patient interviews, provide explanations, and build rapport with Spanish-speaking patient populations. Through immersive practice in simulated clinical situations, students will become familiar with Spanish words and phrases frequently utilized in conversations related to patient care and be prepared to interact more effectively with patients whose first language is not English.
PAS 548: Medical Spanish Terminology II
Credits 1This is the second course in a 3-course series that allows students to apply medical Spanish in various clinical settings. Focusing on commonly used medical terminology and cultural nuances impacting communication, the course equips students to conduct patient interviews, provide explanations, and build rapport with Spanish-speaking patient populations. Through immersive practice in simulated clinical situations, students will become familiar with Spanish words and phrases frequently utilized in conversations related to patient care and be prepared to interact more effectively with patients whose first language is not English.
PAS 549: Medical Spanish Terminology III
Credits 1This is the third course in a 3-course series that allows students to apply medical Spanish in various clinical settings. Focusing on commonly used medical terminology and cultural nuances impacting communication, the course equips students to conduct patient interviews, provide explanations, and build rapport with Spanish-speaking patient populations. Through immersive practice in simulated clinical situations, students will become familiar with Spanish words and phrases frequently utilized in conversations related to patient care and be prepared to interact more effectively with patients whose first language is not English.
PAS 561: Pharmacology I
Credits 3This is the first course in a three-part series introducing concepts of pharmacodynamic, pharmacokinetic and pharmacotherapeutic principles, laying the foundation for the study of pharmacology and pharmacotherapeutics. Students will understand how to formulate a drug management plan and how to write a prescription. This course focuses on pharmacology and therapeutics related to the autonomic nervous system, otolaryngology, ophthalmology, dermatology, orthopedics, immunology, and rheumatology.
PAS 562: Pharmacology II
Credits 2This is the second course in a three-course series. In this course series students will solidify an understanding of pharmacology and pharmacotherapeutics principles learned in Pharmacology I (PAS 561). Students will become proficient in formulating a drug management plan and writing prescriptions. This course focuses on pharmacology and pharmacotherapeutics related to hematological, oncological, cardiovascular, pulmonary and gastrointestinal diseases.
PAS 563: Pharmacology III
Credits 2This is the third course in a three-course series. In this course students will solidify an understanding of pharmacology and pharmacotherapeutics principles learned in Pharmacology I (PAS 561).and II (PAS 562). Students will master formulating a drug management plan and writing prescriptions. This course focuses on pharmacology and pharmacotherapeutics related to neurological, psychosocial/psychiatric, and endocrinological, diseases and disorders.
PAS 572: Clinical Procedures I
Credits 2This course provides students with hands-on experience in applying foundational technical skills to clinical practice. Building upon theoretical knowledge acquired in previous coursework, students will master essential procedures including aseptic technique, intravenous insertion, injection administration and technique, wound care, and catheterization. Through practical application and simulation, students will develop the technical proficiency and clinical judgment necessary for safe and effective patient care
PAS 573: Clinical Procedures II
Credits 2This course provides students with hands-on experience applying theoretical knowledge gained in previous coursework. The curriculum emphasizes the development of essential clinical skills, including sterile technique, suturing, joint injections, aspirations, X-ray interpretation, casting, splinting, airway management, lumbar puncture, and nerve blocks. Students will also receive instruction in common otolaryngological procedures.
PAS 576: Emergency Medicine
Credits 2This course provides a comprehensive overview of the diagnosis and management of traumatic injuries and medical emergencies commonly encountered in the emergency department (ED). Through a case- based approach, students will develop critical thinking skills and clinical decision-making abilities. Emphasis will be placed on life-threatening conditions, trauma assessment and management, diagnostic testing and therapeutic interventions. At the end of this course, students will be equipped to provide competent and compassionate care to patients in emergency situations.
PAS 577: Surgery
Credits 2This course provides a comprehensive overview of surgical principles and practices for Physician Assistant (PA) students. Building upon foundational knowledge acquired in earlier coursework, students will delve deeper into the surgical management of various medical conditions. The course emphasizes the PA's role as a vital member of the surgical team, focusing on preoperative assessment, intraoperative assistance, and postoperative care.
PAS 578: OBGYN and Reproductive Health
Credits 2This course provides a comprehensive overview of common obstetric and gynecological conditions affecting women throughout their lives. Students will explore the epidemiology, etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide range of diseases, including reproductive health, family planning, pregnancy, mental health issues, and breast disorders.
PAS 579: Psychiatry/ Behavioral Health
Credits 2This course provides a clinical foundation in the field of psychiatry and behavioral health. Students will develop a strong understanding of behavioral science principles, psychological assessment, and psychopharmacological interventions. Emphasis will be placed on patient education, advocacy, and ethical practice across the lifespan. The course will also explore the unique challenges and considerations of behavioral health in special populations.
PAS 623: Family Medicine Clinical Rotation
Credits 4This clinical rotation is designed to provide the PA student with the basics necessary to build a solid foundation for the evaluation, documentation, diagnosis and treatment of problems common in primary care and family medicine. The student will develop proficiency in office procedures commonly performed in a family medicine office.
PAS 624: Elective I Clinical Rotation
Credits 4This clinical rotation is designed to provide the PA student with the basics necessary to build a solid foundation for the evaluation, documentation, diagnosis and treatment of problems common in primary care and general medical practice.
PAS 626: Behavioral Medicine Clinical Rotation
Credits 4This clinical rotation is designed so students will develop the skills necessary to evaluate and manage patients with a variety of psychiatric problems. The rotation will provide students with the opportunity to develop an understanding of the role of psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and nurses in the care of the psychiatric patient. Students will learn the appropriate use of selected psychoactive pharmaceuticals. There will be ample opportunity for the student to practice the skills necessary to perform a psychiatric interview and mental status examination and make referrals for specialized psychiatric treatment.
PAS 627: Elective II Clinical Rotation
Credits 4This clinical rotation is designed to provide the PA student with the basics necessary to build a solid foundation for the evaluation, documentation, diagnosis and treatment of problems common in primary care and general medical practice.
PAS 628: Internal Medicine Clinical Rotation
Credits 4This clinical rotation is designed to provide the PA student with comprehensive training in the evaluation and ongoing treatment of patients facing complex medical conditions and chronic illness. Students learn the skills necessary to evaluate and manage the effects of chronic disease on multiple body systems and to perform or assist in procedures commonly done in Internal Medicine. The Internal Medicine rotation exposes the Physician Assistant student to 4 weeks of clinical medicine in the field of Internal Medicine.. The Physician Assistant student will be able to obtain and record a complete problem-oriented medical history; perform a complete or problem-focused physical examination; formulate a diagnosis and problem list; order, obtain, and interpret indicated laboratory and diagnostic studies; and implement therapeutic procedures and treatment plans for internal medicine patients while under preceptor supervision.
PAS 629: Surgery Clinical Rotation
Credits 4This clinical rotation is designed to provide PA students with the skills necessary to evaluate and manage patients with a variety of surgical problems. Students will have the opportunity to develop an understanding of the role of the surgeon, anesthesiologist, assistant surgeon, circulating nurse, scrub nurse, scrub tech, recovery room and the surgery floor nurses, aids, and techs in the care of the surgical patient.
PAS 632: Women's Health Clinical Rotation
Credits 4This rotation is designed to provide the student with an outpatient experience in the care of the female patient, and the impact of disease processes on the reproductive system. The student will develop the skills and knowledge necessary to evaluate, manage, and educate the patient in areas such as annual exams, birth control, infertility, menstruation, sexuality, pregnancy, pre and postnatal care, menopause and relationships.
PAS 633: Pediatrics Clinical Rotation
Credits 4This clinical rotation is designed to provide the student with a clinical experience in pediatrics focusing on newborn children through age 18. The student will learn how to perform a pediatric well child visit and recognize, evaluate and treat common pediatric illnesses and conditions. Additionally, the student will learn to identify and manage both pediatric growth and development issues and pediatric emergencies.
PAS 634: Emergency Medicine Clinical Rotation
Credits 4This clinical rotation is designed to introduce students to the triage and stabilization of patients with life-threatening conditions, as well as the procedures commonly performed in the emergency department. Emphasis is placed on skills required to perform and document a problem-oriented history and physical; formulate a differential diagnosis; order and interpret the tests necessary to confirm or rule out a primary diagnosis and give appropriate patient education. The student will also learn strategies for interacting with patients and families in various levels of stress.
PAS 642: Transition to Care
Credits 4This course is designed to transition students from their academic experiences to clinical experiences to clinical practice. Topics will include issues students will encounter during rotations, including medical ethics, patient safety principles, clinical setting communications, Advance Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Basic Life Support (BLS) renewal, Pediatric Advance Life Support (PALS), professionalism, quality improvement, prevention of medical errors, risk management and an in-depth discussion of program and professional requirements for progressing through the clinical phase. Students will also prepare for formative examinations following most clinical rotations. Students will be introduced to continuing medical education activities.
PAS 662: PANCE Preparation Course
Credits 5This course prepares students for successful completion of the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE), necessary for entering medical practice. Students learn strategies for successful study and successful completion of board-style exams, as well as an intense overview of medical knowledge at the end of this course to help prepare them for the PANCE. This course provides a summative evaluation tool to measure cognitive, motor and affective domains at a point near a student’s completion of the clinical portion of the program. Students perform an objective standardized clinical examination (OSCE) to demonstrate competencies in interpersonal skills, comprehensive physical examination skills and professional bearing. Students will complete an end-of-year written examination providing proof of medical knowledge and clinical competence.
PAS 663: Evidence-Based Medical Practice Capstone Projects
Credits 3Evidence-Based Medical Practice Capstone Projects A is designed to enable PA student learner to put into practice the skills acquired in PAS 509: Evidence- Based Medicine and PAS 529: Social & Cultural Aspects of Healthcare by conducting a literature review and writing a thesis paper describing their findings. Under the guidance of a faculty research advisor, students will review how to search, interpret, and evaluate medical literature. They will then focus on a step-by-step approach to further develop and implement their group Capstone project. Regular meetings with their Capstone advisor will provide opportunities to discuss preliminary drafts of their scholarly work and associated assignments. Additionally, students will submit their work for poster presentation at the LMU-Tampa Research Symposium, allowing them to share their research findings with a broader audience.