Expectations for Progression

A student’s progress through the Program is based upon successful demonstration of expected academic progress, professional behaviors and attitudes. While concerns may be raised at any time, specific program checkpoints allow the program to closely monitor each student.  Course performance and module GPA will be considered at the end of each module as well as at these checkpoints.

Academic

To assure students are aware of concerns prior to failing courses or failing to meet progression criteria, an informal remediation system is used during courses.  The exams given in DPAS courses provide students and faculty with the opportunity to identify areas in which students’ knowledge may be weak.  Students should review the feedback received from the instructor and from the exam platform as soon as possible after the exam and make plans to strengthen weak areas. 

Professional

Professional behaviors defined by the Department of Physician Assistant Studies and evaluated by the department include the following:

• Adheres to institutional policies and procedures
• Admits errors and assumes responsibility
• Advocates for the individual patient
• Arrives on time and prepared for scheduled activities and appointments
• Conveys information honestly and tactfully
• Demonstrates sensitivity to power inequalities in professional relationships
• Fulfills responsibilities, obligations, and commitments in a timely manner
• Maintains personal control and composure during difficult interactions
• Constructively approaches conflict resolution
• Maintains thoroughness and attention to detail
• Actively solicits and incorporates feedback
• Modifies behavior based on feedback in a timely manner
• Requests help when needed
• Takes initiative, perseveres, and prioritizes time effectively
• Responds promptly to communication requests
• Demonstrates respect for peers, professors, patients and their families, and clinical setting colleagues and supervisors in all specialties, disciplines, and professions
• Acknowledges limits of one's own knowledge
• Demonstrates sensitivity and responds receptively to diverse opinions and values
• Demonstrates humility
• Maintains the confidentiality of test material