Clinical Rotation Experience

Through the seven required rotations in Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Emergency Medicine, Women's Health, Psychiatry/Behavioral Health, Surgery, as well as through electives, students are able to become well-rounded practitioners and solid members of healthcare teams, as well as fine-tune their career aspirations. All required rotations must occur within the United States. 

Quotes from Preceptors

Let our preceptors tell you in their own words how Chatham’s MPAS program prepares its student.

"Constantly takes the initiative."

Rarely in my 25-year career have I felt so inclined to recognize a student at this stage of her career for excellence. Alicia exudes determination and constantly takes the initiative in regard to whatever task may be at hand. She is blessed with a charismatic personality accompanied by a delightful sense of humor. She persistently radiates positivity in a way that influences both staff and patients alike. In fact, I on several occasions had patients ask to see "Alicia" as their provider after having had seen her at their previous appointment.

Alicia presents herself with such drive, determination and subtle confidence that I was shocked to learn that this is her first clinical rotation. Alicia's willingness to learn and thirst for knowledge is unmatched amongst her peers. She was never intimidated to ask questions that were thought provoking and well thought out. Alicia has outstandingly represented Chatham. It has been a privilege precepting a student of this caliber and I look forward to witnessing her unlimited future potential.

—CareSalus Internal Medicine Primary Care Physician Group

"Stepped up to the plate each time."

I wanted to reach out to regarding your student, Megan, who is currently in her rotation with me at UPMC Children’s Palliative Care. To start, she is fabulous! We are eager to meet more of your students in the time to come. 

I also wanted to share with you that Megan’s first two weeks with us were not easy and very emotional. I would never expect a student to be prepared for that or even take part (in very difficult situations). Nevertheless, Megan stepped up to the plate each time and viewed it as a learning opportunity. This by no means would have impacted her grade if she would have stepped away, however, I felt that her willingness to hang in there and take part speaks volume for the type of physician assistant she will be.

—UPMC Children’s Palliative Care

Photo of a nurse in maroon scrubs walking with a woman in a black suit in an outdoor hallway

Hit the Ground Running

Unlike students who have received most of their education through lectures, Chatham students come to rotation with a year’s worth of:

  • Simulated interactions, including patient exams, patient interviewing, patient education, and patient presentations to preceptors
  • Experience working in a team to problem-solve
  • Competence in navigating evidence-based medical resources
  • Practice receiving and implementing constructive feedback on all aspects of their clinical rotation preparation and performance

Photo of a Chatham University student posing with a skeleton model

Become a Preceptor

Preceptors may claim CME credits, receive tuition remission for coursework at Chatham, enhance their knowledge base, strengthen their leadership skills, and explore the role of a healthcare educator. Read more about the benefits to the preceptor and to the practice by reading the PDF below.

Download the PDF : Checkerboard 2 - Become a Preceptor