Department of Physician Assistant

Because of their close working relationship with physicians, physician assistants are educated in the medical model designed to complement physician training. Students in ATSU-ASHS’ intensive master’s and advanced master’s physician assistant programs develop proficiencies in many areas: taking medical histories and performing physical examinations, ordering and interpreting lab tests, prescribing medications, assisting in surgery and counseling patients. Faculty and staff work closely with students, helping them develop professional attributes and clinical problem-solving skills necessary for efficient and optimal patient care. Upon graduation, physician assistants take a national certification examination developed by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA).

Department Mission Statement

The A.T. Still University Department of Physician Assistant Studies provides a learning-centered education that develops exemplary physician assistants who deliver whole person healthcare with an emphasis on underserved populations and will be the nation’s leading provider of competent physician assistants who will serve populations in need by providing care to the body, mind and spirit.

The Department advocates and values the following:

A commitment to service
Personal honesty and integrity
Professionalism in practice
Motivation to excel
Compassion and Caring
Teamwork

The Department educates physician assistants with a philosophy that patients come first. We instill in students the concept of addressing the entire patient through the body, mind, and spirit. This philosophy has, at its core, the tenant that healing is more than treatment of a medical diagnosis. Our practitioners recognize the interconnection of the body (physical nature), the mind (psychological and emotional) and the spirit (spiritual and/or religious). Our graduates address the “whole patient” through competent medical treatments, application of educational and preventive strategies, psychological support, and value of each individual’s spiritual beliefs.

Programs

Master of Science