The second year classroom curriculum includes pharmacology, ethics and risk management and several clinical medicine courses. The format is mostly lecture and seminar. Second year clinical rotations are required in pediatrics, family medicine, and surgery. Students may also participate in a variety of elective rotations. All second year rotations are primarily hands-on with direct supervision by physicians and practicing PAs. Before being promoted to third year, students must complete all second year classroom and clinical courses and pass the Entrance to Internship exam.

(schedule subject to change)

Second Year Course Descriptions

MPAS 6101 & 6102 Pharmacology I and II ,
Thomas French, PhD, discussion of the clinical aspects of drug absorption, metabolism, excretion and the dynamics of drug action. Lectures

MPAS 6201 & 6202 Applied Behavioral Medicine I & II
Kyle Tick, MSW discussion of emotional, behavioral, psychosomatic and psychiatric problems commonly encountered by physician assistants in the primary care setting. Evaluation, management and appropriate referral are emphasized. Lecture and small group discussions are utilized.

MPAS 6301 & 6302 Pediatric Clinical Medicine I and II,
Christina Robohm, MS, PA-C, Discussion of pediatric medical and surgical conditions, including pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment. Lectures, clinical correlates and team-based learning

MPAS 6401 & 6402 Adult Clinical Medicine I and II,
Jonathan Bowser, MS, PA-C, Discussion of adult medical and surgical conditions, including pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment. Lectures, clinical correlates and team-based learning

MPAS 6610 Pediatric Dermatology,
Joanna Burch, MD, Discussions on evaluating and managing dermatologic problems in pediatrics. Lectures

MPAS 6620 Nutrition,
Susan Johnson, PhD, A discussion of the principles of nutrition for patients of all ages, including the requirements for normal growth, development and health maintenance, as well as special dietary needs for problems commonly seen in primary care.

MPAS 6701 & 6702 Evidence-Based Medicine I and II,
Anita Glicken, MSW, Students are introduced to the conscientious, explicit and judicious use of current best evidence in clinical decision-making

MPAS 6510 Orthopedics,
Raul Gierbolini, PhD, PA-C, A discussion of the principles of assessment and management of orthopedic problems for physician assistants in primary care. Laboratory sessions provide an opportunity to practice orthopedic examinations and management techniques.

MPAS 6800 PA Role Development,
Cathy Ruff, MS, PA-C, lectures and discussions on PA professional development, including professional behavior, ethical decision making, and risk management.

MPAS 6948 Emergency Medicine
Sandy Fallon, PA-C, Discussion on evaluating and management of medical and surgical emergencies.

MPAS 6300-6600 Pediatric, Adolescent, Family Medicine, Surgery, Women’s Health and Elective Preceptorships,
Joyce Nieman, MHS, PA-C, Students will learn skills appropriate to the specialty or subspecialty including history taking, physical diagnosis, assessment and patient management under the supervision of community clinical preceptors. Students are also required, during the fall and spring semesters, to discuss current clinical experiences in the group format.