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Physician Assistant Program FAQ's
“What is the program’s first-time pass rate in the national boards?”
The PA Program’s first-time pass rate for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) for the last five years is as follows:
| 2007 | 48 students | 96% |
| 2006 | 43 students | 93% |
| 2005 | 41 students | 91% |
| 2004 | 37 students | 95% |
| 2003 | 33 students | 94% |
| Total average : 94% |
“Can the Program be done as a part-time student?”
The PA Program is completed as a full-time, cohort program only. Students complete their course of study in 6 semesters over 24 months. The Program begins in the fall and classes graduate in August after completion of the Program.
“Can I transfer credits to reduce the number of courses I must take?”
Because of the integrated nature of the Program, no advanced standing or transfer of credits is granted. Each class is an integral part of the academic experience and is necessary for a complete education.
“Can I work while attending the Program?”
Due to the intensity and time demands associated with the Program, students are strongly discouraged from working while in the Program. There may be classes that meet during evenings or weekends as the schedule permits and students must be available to attend these sessions. The intensity of study required for successful completion of the Program makes working a significant distraction.
“What is the ‘accreditation status’ of the Program and what does it mean?”
In order for graduates to be eligible to sit for the national board exam, they must have successfully completed an accredited PA Program. The Chatham University PA Program was recently reaccredited in 2005 for a period of 7 years. Accreditation assures the public that a program meets or exceeds standards set by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for Physician Assistants (ARC-PA).
“Can I defer my acceptance into the Program for a future class?”
Offers of acceptance are valid for one entering class only. Students who are accepted but turn down their admission for any reason may “recycle” their application. These applicants must go through the admissions process, as would a first time applicant. No preferential treatment is provided to these candidates. Please contact the Admissions Department for details.
“Where do students do their clinical rotations?”
Chatham University PA students complete their clinical rotations in a variety of settings, including in-patient facilities, out-patient facilities, long term care, and office settings. The Program has developed a unique ‘self-scheduling’ process that allows students to help determine their clinical rotation schedule. Clinical sites are within the Pittsburgh area, as well as across the country. Students also have the opportunity to perform clinical rotations in international settings.
“What can I do to prepare for PA school after I have been admitted?”
One of the best things a student can do to prepare is to learn medical terminology. Medicine has an entirely unique language and requires practice to master. The faculty will suggest a number of medical terminology texts with which students can use.
“Is a laptop computer required?”
All students must have access to a computer (with Internet access) and printer. There are no specific requirements however systems should have enough memory and capability to handle the volume of work. The campus is currently creating a wireless network which will allow students with laptops to access the internet and e-mail from anywhere on campus. Many students prefer a desktop system over a laptop.
“What is the job market for PA’s?”
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ (www.bls.gov) Occupation Outlook, employment of PAs is expected to grow much faster than the average (defined as increases of 36% or more) for all occupations through the year 2012, due to anticipated expansion of the health services industry and an emphasis on cost containment, resulting in increasing utilization of PAs by physicians and healthcare institutions.
“Do we use cadavers for anatomy instruction?”
Yes, cadavers remain an integral part of the instruction for anatomy. Students use cadavers in a pro-section manner (that is, the cadavers are already dissected to reveal the pertinent structures). Computer based programs also provide instruction for anatomy. Beginning in Fall 2005, the Program will provide some of its physiology and pathophysiology instruction via computerized mannequins, as a part of clinical skills instruction.
“What if I have not completed my pre-requisites at the time of matriculation?”
All admissions requirements must be completed prior to entering the Program in the Fall. Any student who has not done so will be unable to begin the Program. Students are strongly encouraged to have plans (and alternate plans) for completion of any work prior to entering the Program. Students must provide evidence of completion (transcript) of any coursework.
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