Program goals

The Department of Physician Assistant Studies (DPAS) embraces Elon University’s guiding mission and supports fulfillment of The Elon Commitment through implementation of the departmental “Learning. Caring. Serving. Leading.” vision. The themes of The Elon Commitment serve as the structure for presenting our goals through the 2015-16 Academic Year. Each theme is expanded upon by key strategies that will lead to attaining our overall goal of creating a nationally recognized department.

Commitment to diversity and global engagement

Goal 1: Attract and educate academically-talented, compassionate, mature students from diverse backgrounds and experiences who are committed to the mission of Elon University and the department.

Goal 2: Support student interest in service and leadership through structured co-curricular activities and a curriculum model that adapts to allow exceptional students the opportunity to pursue service and leadership opportunities.

World-class faculty and staff

Goal 3: Prepare our faculty to excel in utilizing “engaged learning” strategies that effectively educate students to deliver patient-centered, evidence-based care to all patients.

Goal 4: Prepare our faculty to excel in utilizing “engaged learning” strategies that effectively educate students to deliver patient-centered, evidence-based care to all patients.

Outcome: One hundred percent of principal faculty employed for the 2014-15 academic year have demonstrated success through a variety of venues that included: submission and publication of peer-reviewed articles, provided national peer-reviewed presentations, successfully competed for grant funding, and held university, professional and national service and leadership positions or practiced clinically.

Highest levels of academic achievement

Goal 5: Continue to develop innovative teaching and curriculum methods that prepare PA graduates to meet the future needs of the health care delivery system.

Innovative alumni programs

Goal 6: Create and implement a dynamic Alumni Program for the Department of Physician Assistant Studies.

Premier academic facilities

Goal 7: Maintain the Gerald L. Francis Center as a premier academic facility through the use of sustainable building practices.