Courses

This IPE introductory course provides exposure to learners early in their educational programs to engage in activities that offer knowledge based information, focused on "describing roles and responsibilities" and "demonstrating awareness of interprofessional (IP) communication and teamwork in the context of shared curricular topics required across health professions. An introductory level hybrid course of Inter-Professional Education Collaborative (IPEC) competencies and an end of course seminar for all students will be required. (0 Units)

This course will engage intermediate learners in their educational program together through their own programs activities that provide opportunities to continue to build upon IPE competencies and develop collaborative skills, knowledge and attitudes. Programs will integrate multifaceted active teaching methods such as simulation, problem-based learning, clinical practicum, community-based projects, service-learning, and other IPE activities. (0 Units)

This course prepares advanced learners to work collaboratively as appropriate, to assess, plan, provide care/intervention and make decisions to optimize client/patient, family, and community health outcomes and improve quality of care through a University wide IPE simulation. Students will draw upon previously learned knowledge, skills, and attitudes related to the four domains of IPE education to effectively apply leadership qualities that support collaborative practice, and team effectiveness through reflection and application. (1 Units)

This course exposes students to the topography, internal structures and functions of the human body, with correlations to diagnostic modalities currently used by medical practitioners. Case studies illustrate the anatomical findings in classical clinical presentations. Pertinent biochemical principles are applied to cellular and sub-cellular structures and processes which impact health and disease. A systems and inter-systems approach are reinforced in guided labs. (4 units)

This course further exposes students to the topography, internal structures and functions of the human body, with correlations to diagnostic modalities currently used by medical practitioners. Case studies illustrate the anatomical findings in classical clinical presentations. Pertinent biochemical principles are applied to cellular and sub-cellular structures and processes which impact health and disease. A systems and inter-systems approach are reinforced in guided labs. (4 units)

This course exposes students to legal and ethical issues faced in medical practice. Through assigned readings, reflection, application, and class discussions, students will explore approaches that facilitate thinking through the complexities of ethical issues in clinical practice. Representative opinions on death and dying decisions, informed consent, decisional capacity, cultural and religious beliefs, euthanasia and assisted suicide, genetic screening, and the use of humans in clinical research will provide opportunities for thoughtful debate and analysis. (1.5 units)

This course exposes students to the role of microorganisms in infectious diseases, in preparation for advanced coursework in pharmacology, pathophysiology and clinical medicine. Students will appraise the mechanisms of microbial pathogenicity associated with specific infectious diseases, in relation to bacteria, fungi, parasites, mycoplasmas, rickettsias, chlamydias, spirochetes, vibrios, and viruses. (3 units)

This course exposes students to methods of patient evaluation. Students develop critical thinking, interviewing techniques, examination techniques, and proper equipment use. In addition, students appraise patient responses and culturally background. Students learn how to obtain a patient history, document information using the SOAP format, and use medical terminology. Assessment of the skin, head, neck, eyes, ears, nose, sinuses, oral cavity, chest and lungs, and nutrition are practiced in a lab setting. (4 units)

This course further exposes physician assistant students to the techniques of obtaining a patient history, performing a physical examination, and formulating diagnoses. Students will develop skills in interviewing techniques, proper use of equipment, history taking, SOAP note writing, performing examinations, and correlating signs and symptoms with disease processes. In addition, students will undertake evaluation of the heart, the peripheral vascular system, the abdomen, the acutely ill patient, the male genitalia, and also perform patient write-ups. (4 units)

This course further exposes physician assistant students to the techniques of obtaining a patient history, performing a physical examination, and formulating diagnoses. Students will develop skills in interviewing techniques, proper use of equipment, history taking, SOAP note writing, performing examinations, and correlating signs and symptoms with disease processes. In addition, students will perform evaluation of the pediatric patient, musculoskeletal system, breast, pregnant female, nervous system and the geriatric patient. The practical culmination is the performance of a comprehensive physical examination. (4 units)

This course exposes students to the pathophysiology of disease and reviews relevant normal structure and function of human organ systems, followed by a study of pathophysiological mechanisms that underlie diseases related to the cardiovascular, blood, pulmonary, gastrointestinal, liver, exocrine pancreatic, renal, and male reproductive systems. (2 units)

This course further exposes students to the pathophysiology of disease and reviews relevant normal structure and function of human organ systems, followed by a study of pathophysiological mechanisms that underlie diseases related the immunologic, rheumatologic, endocrine, nervous systems; infectious, and hematologic disease processes, as well as neoplasia. (2 units)

This course is designed to acquaint physician assistant (PA) students to basic research in the health sciences and the use of research as evidence in clinical and professional practice. The student will recognize the relevance and value of research in professional development and obtain the skills necessary to pursue a lifetime of learning through examination of research methods and evaluation of current medical literature. (1.5 units)

This course is designed to acquaint the entering student with the PA profession, current and expected future practice trends and the PA’s role as part of the health care team. It also explores health care delivery and political and legal factors that affect PA practice. Additionally, the importance of ethical behavior and professional responsibilities are explored. Furthermore, the role of professional organizations, PA practice requirements and employment strategies are emphasized. The student is introduced to principles and practices that enhance patient safety, professional liability and risk management. (2 units)

This course exposes students to the principles of pharmacology and the application of pharmacotherapeutics. Students are introduced to the rational use of drugs for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases encountered in the clinical care setting. Essentials of pharmacotherapeutics, pharmacodynamics and applicable biomechanisms are applied to the care and treatment of pediatric, adult and geriatric patients. Application of concepts are demonstrated through case presentations. (3 units)

This course further exposes students to the principles of pharmacology and the application of pharmacotherapeutics. Students are introduced to the rational use of drugs for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases encountered in the clinical care setting. Essentials of pharmacotherapeutics, pharmacodynamics and applicable biomechanisms are applied to the care and treatment of pediatric, adult and geriatric patients. Application of concepts are demonstrated through case presentations. (3 units)

This course exposes students to the basic principles of heredity (including cytogenetics, molecular, and mendelian genetics) and the processes that lead to genetic variability in humans. Through a few select genetic disorders, students will become aware of their genetic causes, genetic testing, clinical manifestations of genetic diseases, as well as physical, psychological and social impacts of these disorders on patients. Students attend workshop sessions to solve genetic problems. (1.5 units)

The course exposes students to strategies for fostering a provider-patient partnership, and tools for effectively communicating healthy lifestyles. Students will be presented with current information about various conditions commonly seen in the clinical setting. In addition, students will appraise benefits of prevention, barriers to preventive care, historical perspectives, shared decision-making, selectivity of ordering tests, and improving the delivery of preventive clinical services. Particular attention will be paid to Healthy People 2020. (2 units)

This course exposes students to the psychological and social factors that influence human behavior. Students examine how behavior can be influenced by illness, leading at times to poor coping skills, and physical and mental manifestations. In addition, students will explore development through the life cycle, sleep, sexuality, violence, reaction to illness and learn how to take a proper mental health history and perform a Mini-Mental Status Examination. (2 units)

This course exposes students to practical approaches in the management of medical and surgical conditions. Students perform procedures including prescription writing, aseptic techniques, surgical protocol, venipuncture, intravenous catheterization, suturing techniques, incision and drainage, splinting and casting, oral screening, oral case presentation, and dermatologic procedures. (3 units)

This course exposes students to practical approaches in the management of medical and surgical conditions. Students perform procedures including radiology, lung and heart sounds, bladder catheterization, nasogastric tube placement, joint access, steroid therapy, anesthesia techniques, BLS, ACLS, and miscellaneous urgent care/primary care procedures. In addition, students will take a PACKRAT and an OSCE exam. (3 units)

This course exposes students to common medical and surgical disorders encountered in general adult medicine. Students will appraise typical clinical presentation, etiology, pathophysiology, diagnostic work-up, and management of these disorders. A correlational approach, and interaction with physical diagnosis, pharmacology, and clinical diagnostics of the head, eyes, ears, nose, throat, heart, and lungs will be incorporated. (3.5 units)

This course further exposes students to common medical and surgical disorders encountered in general adult medicine. Students will appraise typical clinical presentation, etiology, pathophysiology, diagnostic work-up, and management of these disorders. A correlational approach, and interaction with physical diagnosis, pharmacology, and clinical diagnostics of the gastrointestinal, renal, musculoskeletal, endocrine, infectious diseases, nutrition, metabolic disorders, rheumatology, and fluids, electrolytes and acid-base disorders will be incorporated. (4.5 units)

This course further exposes students to common medical and surgical disorders encountered in general adult medicine. Students will appraise typical clinical presentation, etiology, pathophysiology, diagnostic work-up, and management of these disorders. A correlational approach, and interaction with physical diagnosis, pharmacology, and clinical diagnostics in dermatology, neurology, infectious diseases, sexually transmitted diseases, oncology/hematology and coagulation disorders, psychiatric disorders, family violence and abuse, rehabilitative medicine, end-of-life issues, and emergency medicine will be incorporated. (3 units)

This course exposes students to common medical and surgical disorders in the newborn, pediatric and adolescent populations. Students will review pertinent anatomic and pathophysiologic aspects of disease conditions, clinical presentation, physical findings, diagnostic work-up, diagnosis, formulation of treatment plans and referral. In addition, students will obtain knowledge pertinent to the physical and psychosocial development of patients in the newborn to adolescent age group and learn strategies for interviewing, performing evaluations, screening exams, and providing anticipatory guidance. (3 units)

This course exposes students to common conditions in caring for the adolescent, adult and elderly female. Students will appraise the etiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic work-up, and management of these problems. Further, students will learn management techniques involved in pregnancy, fetal medicine, dysmenorrhea, iso-immunization, diabetes and hypertension in pregnancy, complications of pregnancy, labor and delivery, post-partum issues, sexually transmitted diseases, menstrual-endocrine abnormalities, reproductive life extremes, fertility regulation, disorders of pelvic support, ovarian, endometrial, cervical and vulvar neoplasia, and cancer. (2.5 units)

This course exposes students to major global health challenges relating to health and disease. Students will analyze recent and emerging health dilemmas, medical emergencies, effects of poverty and conflicts, health systems and disease prevention. In addition, students will explore strategies for acquiring cultural awareness and sensitivity, understanding the status of global health, and identifying opportunities for medical missions in overseas, and rural and medically under-served areas in the United States. (1 unit)

This course emphasizes clinical reasoning and assessment skills in the management of acute medical and surgical care. It would provide students with an overview of emergency medicine and surgical practice with an emphasis on the necessary skills and rationale for exam, diagnostic testing, and management plans required to give treatment to those with life-threatening illness and injuries. The course will introduce current diagnosis and treatment for commonly encountered medical emergencies. The student should be able to develop a working knowledge and framework for the evaluation and treatment of common medical and surgical procedures. (3 units)

Provides practical clinical exposure opportunities for physician assistant students to expand, refine and integrate knowledge and skills in the area of primary care medicine. Students will engage in learning activities that include patient examination, diagnostic laboratory ordering and interpretation, pharmacotherapeutics, treatment modalities, patient referral, follow-up evaluation, case presentations, and patient history and findings documentation. In addition, students will continue to develop skills in clinical problem-solving, evidence-based medicine, inter-professional practice, and effective communication. (5 units)

Provides practical clinical exposure opportunities for the physician assistant student to expand, refine and integrate knowledge and skills in internal medicine. Students will engage in learning activities that include patient examination, diagnostic laboratory ordering and interpretation, pharmacotherapeutics, treatment modalities, patient referral, follow-up evaluation, case presentations, and patient history and findings documentation. In addition, students will continue to develop skills in clinical problem-solving, evidence-based medicine, inter-professional practice, and effective communication. (5 units)

Provides practical clinical exposure opportunities for the physician assistant student to expand, refine and integrate knowledge and skills. Students will continue to develop skills in clinical problem-solving, evidence-based medicine, inter-professional practice, and effective communication. In addition, the student will expand didactic emergency medicine principles to clinical situations, and refine clinical psychomotor skills. Students will engage in learning activities that include patient examination, diagnostic laboratory ordering and interpretation, pharmacotherapeutics, treatment modalities. (5 units)

Provides exposure to general and specific principles of evaluating and treating surgical patients, and expands on knowledge and concepts acquired during the didactic phase of the program through practical applications. Students will learn how to evaluate, diagnose, manage, and refer patients presenting with surgical conditions. In addition, students will perform pre-operative work-ups, post-operative documentation and care for patients, and will assist in the operating room as a member of a surgical team. (5 units)

Focuses on general and specific principles of evaluating and treating patients in the pediatric and adolescent age groups of both gender, and expands on knowledge and concepts acquired during the didactic phase of the program through practical applications. Students will learn how to perform common pediatric treatment procedures, recognize developmental milestones and manage life-threatening conditions. In addition, students will perform drug dosage calculations, provide immunizations, and provide anticipatory guidance. (5 units)

Provides practical clinical exposure opportunities for students to expand refine and integrate knowledge and skills in Behavioral Medicine/Psychiatry. Students will develop proficiency in patient history-taking, evaluation, diagnosis, and management of emotional and psychiatric conditions seen in the pediatric to geriatric populations, and in all genders. In addition, students will expand didactic psychiatric medicine principles to clinical situations. (5 units)

Reinforces and expands on knowledge and concepts acquired during the didactic phase of the program through practical applications. Students will develop proficiency in performing pelvic examinations, saline preps, KOH preps, specimen collection, and some minor surgical procedures such as abscess incision and drainage. In addition students will be involved in providing care for general female conditions, family planning, contraception, prenatal care, preventive education and health promotion related to issues in women’s health. (5 units)

Provides students with opportunities to engage in learning activities that include patient examination, diagnostic laboratory ordering and interpretation, pharmacotherapeutics, treatment modalities, patient referral, follow-up evaluation, case presentations, and patient history and findings documentation. In addition to gaining specific skills in the urgent care setting, the student will continue to develop skills in clinical problem-solving, evidence-based medicine, inter-professional practice, and effective communication. (5 units)

Students gain additional or new clinical experience by returning to a previous clinical specialty or pursuing studies in another area of clinical interest. Students engage in activities that include patient examination, diagnostic laboratory ordering and interpretation, pharmacotherapeutics, treatment modalities, patient referral, follow-up evaluation, case presentations, and patient history and findings documentation. In addition, students will continue to develop skills in clinical problem-solving, evidence-based medicine and inter-professional practice. (5 units)