Dress Code
The Elon University PA Program in Charlotte requires all students to maintain a professional appearance that reflects the standards of the medical profession and the values of Elon University. Professional presentation demonstrates respect for patients, peers, and faculty and contributes to a professional learning environment.
Didactic Year
1. Required Attire
Students must wear program-designated scrubs for all classroom, laboratory, and simulation activities.
Scrubs must be clean, wrinkle-free, and appropriately fitted.
Approved scrub colors and program branding must be worn as designated by the program.
Closed-toe shoes are required in all laboratory and simulation spaces.
The Elon Phoenix Card (student ID) must be visibly displayed at all times while on campus or at any affiliated instructional site.
2. Professional Events and Assessments
Business casual attire is required for special events, guest lectures, professional meetings, professional development events, community engagement activities, any event designated by faculty or program leadership, and Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs).
* A white lab coat is required during certain clinical skills sessions, OSCEs, and standardized patients.
Clinical Year
1. Required Attire
Students are expected to wear business casual attire along with a white coat and a name badge identifying the student’s name and role (“Physician Assistant Student, Elon University Charlotte”).
Clothing must be clean, pressed, and professional in style and appearance.
Closed-toe, professional footwear is required in all clinical settings.
2. Site-Specific Requirements
Students must comply with all dress code and infection control policies of each clinical site.
Scrubs may be worn when specifically required by the rotation (e.g., operating room, emergency department, or other designated settings).
Hair must be neat and secured as appropriate for patient care. Jewelry, perfume, and other accessories should be kept minimal and professional.
___________________________________________________________
Business Casual Attire Guidelines:
Acceptable Attire Includes:
Slacks, khakis, or dress pants
Blouses, button-down shirts, or professional tops
Dresses or skirts of appropriate length
Closed-toe dress shoes or professional flats
Unacceptable Attire Includes:
Jeans, leggings, or athletic wear
T-shirts, tank tops, or crop tops
Flip-flops or sneakers (unless medically necessary)
General Appearance and Conduct
Personal hygiene must reflect the norms of professional healthcare settings.
Tattoos, piercings, or body modifications must comply with the policies of clinical sites and should not detract from professional presentation.
The program reserves the right to determine whether attire or grooming is unprofessional or inappropriate.
Compliance and Professionalism
Students are expected to maintain personal hygiene and present themselves in a manner that reflects professionalism.
Non-compliance with the dress code may result in a professionalism concern and be addressed according to the program’s policies.
After you have read the above guidelines, if you are unsure about an item request guidance from your faculty advisor for advice on the dress code.
Clinical Skills Labs
For the purpose of learning diagnostic and physical examination skills, students may be asked to dress in specific clothing that allows appropriate access to anatomical regions being examined.
Acceptable attire may include athletic shorts, tank tops, or sports bras that ensure both comfort and modesty while permitting effective instruction and peer examination.
Drapes and gowns will be provided for use during all laboratory sessions to preserve privacy and professionalism.
Faculty teaching clinical skills sessions will provide specific guidance regarding appropriate dress for each session based on the body system or examination being taught.
Students are expected to maintain professionalism at all times and to be respectful of peers during all examination activities.
Dress Code in other Locations
Students are also expected to follow these dress code guidelines when they are representing the Program in any setting that requires them to interact with the Elon University community, the professional medical community, or the public. Faculty reserve the right to remove students from the classroom or ask them to alter their appearance if they feel they are not achieving this standard.
In the clinical setting there may be adjustments to clothing requirements by medical service type (Emergency Medicine, OB) or the institution providing the clinical rotation experience. Please note that ties may be disallowed in clinic due to sanitary requirements. However, they may be required at other institutional functions (e.g., education sessions).