wingate university department of physician assistant studies
TRANSCRIPT
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Wingate University
Department of Physician Assistant Studies
Academic Catalog
2008-2010
Master of Physician Assistant Studies
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Contents Contact Information ..................................................................................................................... 4
Staff ............................................................................................................................................ 4
Faculty ........................................................................................................................................ 4
ACCREDITATION ...................................................................................................................... 5
Department of Physician Assistant Studies ............................................................................ 5
Wingate University ................................................................................................................... 5
INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................................... 6
ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY ....................................................................................................... 7
ABOUT THE MPAS PROGRAM .............................................................................................. 7
ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................. 9
Master Degree Prerequisites. ................................................................................................... 9
Prerequisite Science Courses ................................................................................................... 9
Prerequisite General Courses .................................................................................................. 9
Required Clinical Experience for Physician Assistant Applications ................................. 10
Letters of Recommendation ................................................................................................... 10
Technical Standards Requirements ...................................................................................... 10
Medical Terminology .............................................................................................................. 12
TENTATIVE ACADEMIC CALENDAR 2008-2010.............................................................. 12
ASSESSMENT OF THE MPAS PROGRAM .......................................................................... 13
MPAS REQUIRED CURRICULUM ....................................................................................... 15
First Semester (Fall – Didactic Year) .................................................................................... 15
Second semester (Spring – didactic year) ............................................................................. 16
Third Semester (Summer – didactic year)............................................................................ 17
CLINICAL ROTATION SITES ............................................................................................... 19
Fourth Semester (Fall – clinical year) ................................................................................... 21
Fifth Semester (Spring – clinical year).................................................................................. 21
Sixth Semester (Summer – clinical year) ............................................................................. 21
Seventh Semester (Fall – Final Semester) ............................................................................. 21
ACADEMIC POLICIES ............................................................................................................ 22
STUDENT PRIVACY AND INFORMED CONSENT ........................................................... 23
CODES OF PROFESSIONAL AND ACADEMIC CONDUCT ............................................ 23
PROJECTED TUITION ............................................................................................................ 24
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STUDENTS’ EMPLOYMENT.................................................................................................. 24
STUDENTS’ HOUSING ............................................................................................................ 24
ADDITIONAL EXPENSES FOR THE PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT PROGRAM ............... 24
Textbooks ..................................................................................................................................... 24
Medical Equipment, Attire ........................................................................................................ 24
Laptop .......................................................................................................................................... 24
LICENSING ................................................................................................................................ 25
FACULTY ................................................................................................................................... 26
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WINGATE UNIVERSITY
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT STUDIES
Contact Information Campus Box 5010
Wingate NC 28174
(704) 233-8051 telephone
(866) 320-2726 fax
pa.wingate.edu
Staff Program Director .............................................................. Gary R. Uremovich DMin MPAS PA-C
Medical Director ............................................................................................... Susan S. Lester MD
Academic Coordinator ...................................................................... Rosalind V. Becker MS PA-C
Clinical Coordinator..................................................................Michael B. Whitehead DHSc PA-C
Administrative Assistant ......................................................................................Marie Cook Irving
Faculty Rosalind V. Becker MS PA-C ........................................................................... Assistant Professor
John F. Hartness, Jr. MD ................................................................................... Assistant Professor
Susan S. Lester MD ........................................................................................... Assistant Professor
Laura L. Lupton MD .......................................................................................... Assistant Professor
C. Brian Odom PhD .......................................................................................... Associate Professor
Robert B. Supernaw PharmD ............................................................................................ Professor
Gary R. Uremovich DMin MPAS PA-C ........................................................... Assistant Professor
Michael B. Whitehead DHSc PA-C.................................................................... Assistant Professor
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ACCREDITATION
Department of Physician Assistant Studies Wingate University is in the process of provisional accreditation through the Accreditation
Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) to offer the Master of
Physician Assistant Studies degree. The decision of ARC-PA concerning provisional
accreditation will be confirmed in March 2008. The Department is also filing appropriate
documentation (substantive change prospectus) with the Commission on Colleges of the
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Wingate University Wingate University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of
Colleges and Schools (SACS). The last accreditation was completed in 2006 and is accredited to
award the bachelor, master and professional degrees. Wingate University is currently applying
for accreditation of a Doctorate of Education degree (EdD) and the Master of Physician Assistant
Studies degree (MPAS).
The Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) is the
recognized regional accrediting body in the eleven U.S. southern states (Alabama, Florida,
Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas
and Virginia) and Latin America for institutions of higher education that award associate,
baccalaureate, masters or doctoral degrees (see www.sacscoc.org).
Questions about the status of the University’s accreditation may be obtained from the
Commission on Colleges by calling (404) 679-4500 or by writing the SACS home office at 1866
Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033.
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INTRODUCTION Wingate University is operated on a nondiscriminatory basis. Wingate University abides by the
provisions of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title XI of Educational Amendments of
1972 and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Section 504. Wingate University does not discriminate
on the basis of race, sex, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or military
service in its administration of education policies, programs, activities or services.
Each student is responsible for knowing the policies, procedures, curricular requirements and
codes of conduct for the Department of Physician Assistant Studies and the University.
Each student is responsible for his/her progress towards degree completion. Neither the student’s
advisor nor the faculty of the Department of Physician Assistant Studies is responsible for
insuring that the student meets degree requirements. The Department and/or the University may
terminate enrollment of any student for professional, academic or financial reasons.
It is important to recognize that there may be differences in the procedures described in the
general University Student Handbook for non-PA students. These differences are intended and
have been carefully crafted based on the graduate level of this professional program. In those
cases where procedures are different, the procedures specific to the Department of Physician
Assistant studies will take precedence.
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ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY Founded in 1896, Wingate University is a private, four-year liberal arts institution offering 37
undergraduate majors in arts and sciences, business, education, fine arts, music and sport
sciences. Students also can earn a Doctor of Pharmacy degree or pursue pre-professional
programs in pharmacy, veterinary science, medicine, law, ministry and more. The 435-acre main
campus is located on the southeastern edge of the metropolitan Charlotte area in North Carolina.
Wingate University was founded in 1896.
In 2003, Wingate became the third University in the State of North Carolina to offer the PharmD
degree. In August 2008, the University plans to enroll the inaugural class of the Master of
Physician Assistant Studies degree, the fifth such program in the State of North Carolina.
Wingate University will be the only program in North Carolina to have both a Physician
Assistant Program and PharmD program.
The central mission of Wingate University is to prepare students to become enlightened,
productive citizens by providing a high quality education in the Judeo-Christian heritage.
Accordingly, Wingate University has three primary objections:
• Maintain an environment where students broaden their knowledge of the world
• Sustain a community where the bases of faith are explored and where there is a common
search for truth and meaning
• Promote a heritage of service to humanity and God through involvement and leadership
ABOUT THE MPAS PROGRAM The Wingate University Department of Physician Assistant Studies will cover seven continuous
semesters (27 months). The first year (3 semesters in 12 months) is didactic classes and the
second year is clinical rotations throughout the region in various medical specialties.
The mission of the Wingate University Department of Physician Assistant Studies is to educate
Physician Assistants to become competent, compassionate and comprehensive health care
providers.
Graduates will become leaders in the health care community, continuously striving for
excellence in their professional endeavors while compassionately providing for the health care
needs of those they serve.
The goals of the Department of Physician Assistant Studies are to
• Identify for admission those individuals with the academic ability, clinical experience,
interpersonal skills and maturity necessary to become outstanding Physician Assistants.
• Provide a coordinated, comprehensive didactic and clinical curriculum that will allow
graduates to deliver the highest quality of health care services.
• Promote a didactic and clinical educational environment that embraces the concepts of
continuous communication, cooperation and compassion.
• Promote an atmosphere of “learner-centered” education that empowers students to
become self-directed learners.
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• Instill in students the core values of Wingate University: Faith – Knowledge – Service.
• Provide students with the medical knowledge, clinical skills and caring attitude needed to
practice as a Physician Assistant anywhere and within any type of clinical practice.
• Promote continuously a comprehensive approach to health and disease by emphasizing
health maintenance, disease prevention and life-long learning.
• Develop in students an appreciation of the dignity of the individual and each individual’s
right to a quality life.
• Promote continued professional growth through life-long learning.
• Encourage graduates to strive for excellence in clinical practice while employing
professional ethics as a member of the health care team focused on service to others.
The Department of Physician Assistant Studies will prepare individuals to become valued
members of the health care team licensed to practice medicine with physician supervision.
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ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS
Master Degree Prerequisites. All applicants, if accepted, are required to have all of the following requirements completed upon
entering the PA Program. These requirements do not have to be completed at the time of
application, unless otherwise noted.
• A bachelor’s degree from a four-year regionally accredited college or university.
• Satisfactory completion of the science prerequisite courses with an overall GPA of 3.2 or
better. [Grades below C for any course will not be accepted.]
• A recommended GPA of 3.0 or better on all college level work attempted.
• Current certification in Basic Life Support (BLS). Only the Red Cross course for
Professional Rescuers or the American Heart Association course for Health Care
Providers will be accepted.
• A minimum of 500 hours clinical experience with direct patient contact.
• No history of drug abuse or conviction of a felony (a background check will be
performed)
• No history of dismissal from another PA, medical or nursing school for academic or
disciplinary reasons.
• No Advanced Placement. The PA Program does not accept transfer credit from a student
previously enrolled in another PA program, nor does it accept experiential credit. All
students accepted in the PA program must satisfy all requirements of the didactic and
clinical years of study.
• All non-U.S. citizens or students who have English as a second language must submit
their college transcripts to the Word Education Services for translation and successfully
complete the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language www.toefl.org).
Graduates of Wingate University, who meet all admission requirements and have successful
interviews, will be given preference in the application process.
The following prerequisites are in effect for applicants interested in attending the inaugural class
in August 2008:
Prerequisite Science Courses • Anatomy and Physiology with Lab 4 semester hours
• Microbiology 4 semester hours
• Other Biology Science 4 semester hours
• General Chemistry with Lab 4 semester hours
• Organic Chemistry with Lab 4 semester hours
• Biochemistry 3 semester hours
Prerequisite General Courses • College Algebra (or higher) 3 semester hours
• Applied Statistics 3 semester hours
• Psychology course 3 semester hours
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Required Clinical Experience for Physician Assistant Applications A minimum of 500 Hours of direct patient contact is required.
Acceptable Experience:
• Emergency Room Technician
• Emergency Medicine Scribe
• Military Medic, Clinical Specialist or Independent Corpsman
• Surgical Technician
• Radiological Technician
• Emergency Medical Technician
• Certified Nursing Assistant
• Nursing
• Orderly
• Certified Laboratory Technician
• Phlebotomy
• Athletic Trainers (there may be an exception depending on the type of work experience)
• Shadowing a Physician or Physician Assistant in their routine duties
• Certified Physical Therapist Assistant
• Certified Massage Therapist
Unacceptable Experience:
• Clerical duties for an organization
• Veterinary work
• Medical answering service
• Ward Secretary
The major factor is direct patient contact or observation of direct patient contact. Consideration
is given to applicants who are compensated for their contact hours since this implies a higher
level of accountability. If there are questions about the acceptable form of clinical experience,
please contact the Program Director.
Letters of Recommendation
Two letters of recommendation are required. One must be from a health care professional (MD,
DO, PA, NP).
Technical Standards Requirements The abilities and skills which candidates and students must possess in order to complete the
education and training associated with Physician Assistant education are referred to as
“Technical Standards.” These same abilities and skills are essential for clinical practice as a
Physician Assistant. The Technical Standards listed below reflect five categorical areas:
observation, communication, critical reasoning (intellectual), motor and sensory, and
behavioral/social and represent minimum competence levels. Students must attest that they meet
these Technical Standards prior to or at the time of matriculation to the Wingate University
Department of Physician Assistant Studies. Students found to be in violation of Technical
Standards are at risk for dismissal from the program. Each standard is defined below and is
followed by examples of indicators of minimum competence in that area. Reasonable
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accommodation for persons with documented disabilities will be considered on an individual
basis, but a candidate must be able to perform in an independent manner.
Observation. Candidates must have sufficient capacity to observe in the lecture hall, the
laboratory, the outpatient setting and the patient’s bedside. Sensory skills to perform a physical
examination are required. Functional vision, hearing and tactile sensation are required to
properly observe a patient’s condition and to perform procedures regularly required during a
physical examination such as inspection, auscultation and palpation.
Communication. Candidates must be able to communicate effectively in both academic and
health care settings. Candidates must show evidence of effective written and verbal
communication skills. Candidates must be able to communicate with patients in order to elicit
information, describe changes in mood, activity and posture and perceive nonverbal
communications. Candidates must be capable of completing, in a thorough and timely manner,
appropriate medical records and documents and plans according to protocol.
Motor. The ability to participate in basic diagnostic and therapeutic maneuvers and procedures
(e.g., palpation, auscultation) is required. Candidates must have sufficient motor function to
execute movements reasonably required to properly care for all patients. Candidates must be
able to move freely about patient care environments and must be able to move between settings
such as clinics, classroom buildings, and hospitals. In addition, physical stamina sufficient to
complete the rigorous course of didactic and clinical study is required. Long periods of sitting,
standing or moving are required in classroom, laboratory and clinical experiences.
Intellectual. Candidates must be able to measure, calculate, reason, analyze and synthesize.
Problem solving, one of the critical skills demanded of physician assistants, requires all of these
intellectual abilities. Candidates must be able to read and understand medical literature. In order
to complete the Physician Assistant Studies program, candidates must be able to demonstrate
mastery of these skills and the ability to use them together in a timely fashion in medical
problem-solving and patient care.
Behavioral and Social Attributes. Candidates must possess the emotional health and stability
required for full utilization of their intellectual abilities, the exercise of good judgment and the
prompt completion of all academic and patient care responsibilities. The development of mature,
sensitive and effective relationships with patients and other members of the health care team is
essential. The ability to function in the face of uncertainties inherent in clinical practice,
flexibility, compassion, integrity, motivation, interpersonal skills and concern for others, are all
required. Candidates must be able to function effectively under stress and have the ability to
accept constructive criticism and handle difficult interpersonal relationships during training.
Candidates will be required to certify that they have read and understand the Technical Standards
of the Department of Physician Assistant Studies at Wingate University and attest that they have
no condition – as noted above – that would interfere, inhibit, compromise or distract from their
participation in the program.
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Medical Terminology Students progress more rapidly and successfully during the first several semesters of studies if
they have a fair understanding of medical terminology. Students are advised to purchase
Medical Terminology: A Systems Approach by Gylys and Wedding (latest edition). This is a
self-instructional guide and can be purchased through the University bookstore or online. An
examination will be administered based on this material early in the first semester.
TENTATIVE ACADEMIC CALENDAR 2008-2010 Fall semester 2008 (16 weeks)
August 13-15 Orientation
August 18 Classes begin
October 2-9 Mid-term exams
October 13-14 Fall break
October 15 Classes resume
November 26-28 Thanksgiving break
December 9-12 Final exams
December 15 Winter break begins
Spring semester 2009 (17 weeks)
January 7 Classes begin
January 19 Martin Luther King, Jr., Holiday
February 23-27 Mid-term exams
March 2-6 Spring break
March 9 Classes resume
April 29-May 6 Final exams
Summer semester 2009 (11 weeks)
May 18 Classes begin
June 22-26 Mid-term exams
July 3 Independence Day holiday
July 27-31 Final exams
Fall semester 2009 (17 weeks)
August 19-21 Orientation for new students
August 24 Classes begin – didactic year
1st rotation begins – clinical year
September 28 2nd
rotation begins – clinical year
October 7-9 Mid-term exams - didactic year
October 12-13 Fall break – didactic year
November 2 3rd
rotation begins – clinical year
November 23-27 Thanksgiving break – clinical year
November 25-27 Thanksgiving break – didactic year
November 30 3rd
rotation resumes – clinical year
December 7-11 Final exams – didactic and clinical years
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Spring semester 2010 (17 weeks)
January 4 Classes begin – didactic year
1st rotation begins – clinical year
January 18 Martin Luther King, Jr., holiday – didactic year
February 8 2nd
rotation begins – clinical year
February 23-26 Mid-term exams – didactic year
March 1-5 Spring break – didactic and clinical years
March 8 Classes resume – didactic year
2nd
rotation resumes – clinical year
March 22 3rd
rotation begins – clinical year
May 3-7 Final exams – didactic and clinical years
Summer semester 2010 (11 weeks)
May 17 Classes begin – didactic year
May 21 1st rotation begins – clinical year
May 22-25 Mid-term exams – didactic year
June 21 2nd
rotation begins – clinical year
July 5 Independence Day holiday
July 26-30 Final exams – didactic and clinical years
Fall semester 2010 (17 weeks)
August 11-13 Orientation for new students
August 16 Classes begin – didactic year
1st rotation begins – clinical year
Rotation begins – final semester
September 20 2nd
rotation begins – clinical year
October 4-8 Mid-term exams – didactic year
October 11-12 Fall break – didactic year
October 25 3rd
rotation begins – clinical year
November 22-26 Thanksgiving break – clinical year
November 24-26 Thanksgiving break – didactic year and final semester
November 29 3rd
rotation resumes – clinical year
December 6-10 Final exams – didactic and clinical years, final semester
Graduation
ASSESSMENT OF THE MPAS PROGRAM A comprehensive assessment process will examine outcome instruments and Physician Assistant
National Certification Examination (PANCE) scores and will tie directly to curriculum
assessment. Quality assurance processes will be conducted throughout the year as documented in
the program’s assessment plan. Student surveys of courses will be conducted every semester;
results of these evaluations will be examined each semester to look for immediate weakness, and
the results of course surveys are annually reviewed prior to implementing curriculum changes.
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The strategic planning process will include an annual faculty retreat in order to examine all
pertinent data such as outcomes, quality assurance, maintenance items (such as the PANCE
Blueprint) and alignment of the program’s mission and vision statement with the institutional
strategic plan and vision.
The program competencies will be tied to the Accreditation Review Commission for the
Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) Standards, which will allow a cyclic process of examining
formative, summative and outcome instruments that are closely correlated with the graduate
competencies. The conceptual framework of the ongoing assessment system represents a
continuous process of improvement.
Integral to the self-study will be a semi-annual (or more frequent) meeting of the Advisory
Council. The Council is composed of interested members within the local medical and health
care community. Their feedback to the results of our assessments and evaluation of outcomes
will be essential to our strategic goals and program improvement initiatives.
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MPAS REQUIRED CURRICULUM
First Semester (Fall – Didactic Year) MPAS 520 Introduction to the Profession. Students review the history, development, current
trends and issues of the physician assistant profession. The importance of biomedical ethics and
professional responsibilities is stressed in the context of the PA’s role as a health care provider.
Content relating to physician assistant professional organizations, program accreditation,
graduate certification and recertification, employment considerations and professional liability
are included.
Prerequisite Admission to MPAS program
Instructor Dr. Uremovich
Credit 1 semester hour
MPAS 530 Clinical Medicine I. This is the first of three courses reviewing medical diagnosis and
treatment. Students learn the pathology of disease by system and specialty, including modules
reviewing medical terminology, nutrition, clinical laboratory medicine, ophthalmology and
otolaryngology (EENT), dermatology, clinical psychiatry, pulmonology and cardiology
(electrophysiology/EKG). Relevant pathology and radiology will be incorporated.
Prerequisite Admission to MPAS program
Instructor Dr. Whitehead
Credit 6 semester hours
MPAS 538 Patient Assessment I. Students learn foundational skills and techniques required to
gather a complete medical history and perform a comprehensive physical examination. The
student’s knowledge of the structure and function of the human body will be coupled with
laboratory sessions emphasizing the proper use of diagnostic equipment and techniques.
Prerequisite Admission to MPAS program
Instructor Ms. Becker
Credit 4 semester hours
MPAS 541 Pharmacology I. Students are introduced to pharmacodynamic, pharmacokinetic and
pharmacotherapeutic principles which provide a foundation for the study of pharmacology and
therapeutics. Combined lecture and active learning exercises are designed to develop the
pharmacologic and therapeutic skills that a physician assistant will need to enhance patient care
in clinical practice focusing on the following areas: autonomic pharmacology, pulmonary and
psychiatric diseases.
Prerequisite Admission to MPAS program
Instructor Dr. Supernaw or School of Pharmacy instructor
Credit 2 semester hours
MPAS 544 Clinical Anatomy. Students obtain a working knowledge of the major anatomical
regions and structures of the body. Emphasis will be placed upon the relationships of
components within a specific region as well as topographical and functional anatomy as it relates
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to physical examination skills and clinical applications. Students will review materials and
lectures utilizing virtual cadaver software.
Prerequisite Admission to MPAS program
Instructor Dr. Lester
Credit 2 semester hours
MPAS 546 Physiology and Pathophysiology I. Students learn integrative human physiology and
pathophysiology involving the cardiovascular, pulmonary, renal and musculoskeletal systems
with an emphasis upon homeostatic mechanisms and etiologies of disease. The interrelationships
of function and dysfunction at the molecular, cellular and tissue level, organ and systemic level
will provide a foundation for clinical medicine courses.
Prerequisite Admission to MPAS program
Instructor Dr. Lupton
Credit 2 semester hours
Second semester (Spring – didactic year) MPAS 527 Health Care Issues I. Students develop a greater appreciation and comprehension of
the socio-behavioral aspects of medical practice. Students learn effective counseling and
preventive education strategies for improving treatment compliance, promoting positive health
patterns and enhancing positive response to illness. Students develop a higher level of sensitivity
to the subjective world of patients to reinforce positive treatment compliance and outcome.
Prerequisite Admission to MPAS program
Instructor Dr. Uremovich
Credit 2 semester hours
MPAS 531 Clinical Medicine II. Students build on their knowledge of the pathology of disease
presented in Clinical Medicine I and continues with the presentation of the following systems:
cardiology (incorporating EKGs), gastroenterology, infectious disease, neurology, orthopedic
rheumatology and endocrinology. Disorders are presented by system and specialty, augmented
with clinical therapeutics.
Prerequisite MPAS 530 Clinical Medicine I
Instructor Dr. Whitehead
Credit 6 semester hours
MPAS 539 Patient Assessment II. Students build on the knowledge, foundational skills and
techniques learned in MPAS 538 Patient Assessment I in the performance of a thorough physical
examination and medical history. Students will integrate the knowledge obtained in MPAS 530
Clinical Medicine I with laboratory sessions emphasizing the proper use of diagnostic equipment
and proper technique for performing a comprehensive physical examination. The semester will
include the cardiovascular/peripheral vascular, gastroenterological, neurological and
musculoskeletal systems, as well as exam techniques specific to endocrinological disorders.
Prerequisite MPAS 538 Patient Assessment I
Instructor Ms. Becker
Credit 4 semester hours
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MPAS 542 Pharmacology II. Students build upon the knowledge and skills obtained in MPAS
541 Pharmacology I. Combined lecture and active learning exercises are designed to develop the
pharmacologic and therapeutic skills that a physician assistant will need to enhance patient care
in clinical practice focusing on inflammatory, infectious and malignant diseases. Students are
expected to utilize clinical literature and evaluate patient cases as they relate to pharmacology.
Prerequisite MPAS 541 Pharmacology I
Instructor Dr. Supernaw or School of Pharmacy instructor
Credit 3 semester hours
MPAS 547 Physiology and Pathophysiology II. Students learn integrative human physiology
and pathophysiology involving the neurological, gastrointestinal, endocrine and reproductive
systems with an emphasis upon homeostatic mechanisms and the etiologies of disease states.
Recognition of the interrelationship of function and dysfunction at the molecular, cellular and
tissue levels, as well as the organ and systemic levels, provides the student with the necessary
foundation for clinical medicine courses.
Prerequisite MPAS 546 Physiology and Pathophysiology I
Instructor Dr. Lupton
Credit 2 semester hours
Third Semester (Summer – didactic year) MPAS 528 Health Care Issues II. Students build upon concepts in patient care discussed in
MPAS 527 Health Care Issues I. After completion of this course, students will understand and
express ethical concepts as they relate to practical decision-making and problem-solving.
Students will comprehend risk management strategies and the legal definitions of, and their
responsibilities toward, informed consent and confidentiality. Students will gain an appreciation
for health care policy, nationally and locally, as it impacts health care delivery, the practice of
medicine as a PA and the socioeconomic factors pertaining to relevant health care decision
making.
Prerequisite MPAS 527 Health Care Issues I
Instructor Dr. Uremovich
Credit 1 semester hour
MPAS 532 Clinical Medicine III. Students build upon the knowledge and skills attained in the
two prior Clinical Medicine courses. Students will study the disorders and diseases of the
following systems: genitourinary (GU), hematology/oncology, preventive medicine and
complementary and alternative medicine. Disorders are presented by system and specialty,
augmented with clinical therapeutics.
Prerequisite MPAS 531 Clinical Medicine II
Instructor Ms. Becker
Credit 3 semester hours
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MPAS 543 Pharmacology III. Students build upon prior knowledge and skills. Combined lecture
and active learning exercises will be designed to develop the pharmacologic and therapeutic
skills that a physician assistant needs to enhance patient care in clinical practice focusing on the
following areas: cardiology, gastroenterology, endocrinology and neurology.
Prerequisite MPAS 542 Pharmacology II
Instructor Dr. Supernaw or School of Pharmacy instructor
Credit 2 semester hours
MPAS 550 Emergency Medicine. In this advanced clinical course, students learn treatment of
trauma and medical disorders commonly presenting to the emergency department. Taught in a
case-based format, the emphasis is on the priority of stabilizing patients with life-threatening
trauma or illness and selecting appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic measures. Students will be
required to become ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) certified or recertified for clinical
rotations.
Prerequisite Continued progress in MPAS program
Instructor Dr. Hartness
Credit 2 semester hours
MPAS 552 Medical Procedures and Surgery. Students build on the knowledge, skills and
techniques learned in MPAS 539 Patient Assessment II to evaluate the surgical patient. Taught
using a combination of lectures and laboratory exercises, students learn to perform procedures
such as suturing, splinting, wound care, intravenous insertions, nasogastric intubations and Foley
catheter insertion. Students learn principles of surgery, including pre-operative, intra-operative
and post-operative care, and minor surgical procedures.
Prerequisite MPAS 539 Patient Assessment II
Instructor Ms. Becker
Credit 2 semester hours
MPAS 554 Special Populations. Students must understand the special needs of patients within
the primary care subspecialties: women’s health, pediatrics and geriatrics. This class is taught in
a modular format using a variety of learning methods, including traditional lectures and
interactive techniques. Student experiences will include simulated patient encounters that teach
examination skills of adult male and female genitalia.
Prerequisite Continued progress in MPAS program.
Instructor Dr. Whitehead
Credit 5 semester hours
MPAS 560 Clinical Genetics. The successful practice of modern medicine includes the
recognition of the role of genetic factors in health and disease; students must understand the
genetic basis of disease. Students learn to obtain an accurate genetic pedigree and convey
information to patients. Knowledge will be used to develop a more effective approach to health
maintenance, disease prevention, disease diagnosis and treatment based on patients’ genetic
predisposition.
Prerequisite Continued progress in MPAS program.
Instructor Dr. Odom
Credit 1 semester hour
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MPAS 580 Research, Epidemiology and Statistics for the Physician Assistant. Students receive
instruction in research methods and application in the clinical setting. Students gain
understanding of the basic concepts of epidemiology as it relates to medical practice. Students
are prepared to critically read published reports of clinical research and identify strengths and
weaknesses. Students will be prepared to complete a community-based project as their capstone
for the MPAS program.
Prerequisite Continued progress in MPAS program.
Instructor TBA
Credit 2 semester hours
CLINICAL ROTATION SITES MPAS degree curriculum will be delivered both on and off the main campus of Wingate
University. Didactic courses will be held on the main campus while clinical rotation curriculum
will be delivered in affiliated sites such as hospitals, medical practices and long-term care
facilities. The Department of Physician Assistant Studies will attempt to place students in
locations that are mutually agreed upon but reserves the right to place students in suitable
locations when necessary. Transportation for all off-campus clinical rotations is the
responsibility of the student, as are living arrangements and living expenses.
Students during the clinical year will serve in three rotations during the fall semester, three in the
spring semester, two in the summer semester and one in the final semester. Each student will
complete each rotation described below.
MPAS 600 Ambulatory Medicine. The five-week rotation provides practical experience in
general primary care through outpatient medicine. Students engage in all aspects of patient care,
including history, physical exam, treatment plan design and evaluation. Students’ application of
patient and family education to treatment and preventive measures is emphasized.
Prerequisite Successful completion of didactic year courses
Instructor Preceptor at clinical rotation site and Dr. Whitehead
Credit 5 semester hours
MPAS 601 Long-Term Care. The five-week rotation provides practical clinical experience in
long-term care facilities. Students engage in all aspects of patient care, including history,
physical exam, treatment plan design and evaluation. Students’ application of patient and family
education to treatment and preventive measures is emphasized.
Prerequisite Successful completion of didactic year courses
Instructor Preceptor at clinical rotation site and Dr. Whitehead
Credit 5 semester hours
MPAS 602 Internal Medicine. The five-week rotation provides practical clinical experience in
internal medicine. Students engage in all aspects of patient care, including history, physical
exam, treatment plan design and evaluation. Students’ application of patient and family
education to treatment and preventive measures is emphasized.
Prerequisite Successful completion of didactic year courses
Instructor Preceptor at clinical rotation site and Dr. Whitehead
Credit 5 semester hours
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MPAS 603 Pediatrics. The five-week rotation provides practical clinical experience in pediatric
medicine. Students engage in all aspects of patient care, including history, physical exam,
treatment plan design and evaluation. Students’ application of patient and family education to
treatment and preventive measures is emphasized.
Prerequisite Successful completion of didactic year courses
Instructor Preceptor at clinical rotation site and Dr. Whitehead
Credit 5 semester hours
MPAS 604 Psychiatry. The five-week rotation provides practical clinical experience in
psychiatric medicine. Students engage in all aspects of patient care, including history, physical
exam, treatment plan design and evaluation. Students’ application of patient and family
education to treatment and preventive measures is emphasized.
Prerequisite Successful completion of didactic year courses
Instructor Preceptor at clinical rotation site and Dr. Whitehead
Credit 5 semester hours
MPAS 605 General Surgery. The five-week rotation provides practical clinical experience in
general surgery. Students engage in all aspects of patient care, including history, physical exam,
treatment plan design and evaluation. Students’ application of patient and family education to
treatment and preventive measures is emphasized.
Prerequisite Successful completion of didactic year courses
Instructor Preceptor at clinical rotation site and Dr. Whitehead
Credit 5 semester hours
MPAS 606 Women’s Health. The five-week rotation provides practical clinical experience in
women’s health. Students engage in all aspects of patient care, including history, physical exam,
treatment plan design and evaluation. Students’ application of patient and family education to
treatment and preventive measures is emphasized.
Prerequisite Successful completion of didactic year courses
Instructor Preceptor at clinical rotation site and Dr. Whitehead
Credit 5 semester hours
MPAS 607 Emergency Medicine. The five-week rotation provides practical clinical experience
in emergency medicine. Students engage in all aspects of patient care, including history, physical
exam, treatment plan design and evaluation. Students’ application of patient and family
education to treatment and preventive measures is emphasized.
Prerequisite Successful completion of didactic year courses
Instructor Preceptor at clinical rotation site and Dr. Whitehead
Credit 5 semester hours
MPAS 609 Elective. This five-week rotation will provide practical experience in the medical or
surgical specialty of the student’s choice. This rotation will allow students to explore more
completely an area of interest in clinical medicine or surgery.
Prerequisite Successful completion of didactic year courses
Instructor Preceptor at clinical rotation site and Dr. Whitehead
Credit 5 semester hours
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Fourth Semester (Fall – clinical year) MPAS 620 Capstone Project Review. Students continue work initiated on the Capstone Project
defined and discussed in MPAS 580 Research, Epidemiology and Statistics for the Physician
Assistant. This course will allow the student to further define the project and make necessary
preparations in fulfilling the Capstone Project.
Prerequisite MPAS 580 Research, Epidemiology and Statistics for the Physician Assistant
Instructor Dr. Uremovich
Credit 1 semester hour
Three Five-Week Clinical Rotations. 15 semester hours
Fifth Semester (Spring – clinical year) MPAS 623 Professional Development. The instructor will teach through an interactive
discussion format. Topics include resume development, employment strategies, completion of
state applications for practice, medical malpractice, reimbursement issues and financial planning.
Prerequisite Continued progress in MPAS program.
Instructor Dr. Uremovich
Credit 1 semester hour
Three Five-Week Clinical Rotations. 15 semester hours
Sixth Semester (Summer – clinical year) MPAS 624 PANCE Preparation I. The first of two courses to prepare students for successful
completion of the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE), necessary for
entering medical practice. Students learn strategies for successful study and successful
completion of board-style exams. Students are prepared to take a systems approach, integrating
all aspects of medicine, including medical and surgical disorders encountered in general adult
and pediatric medicine. Topics also include typical clinical presentation, etiology,
pathophysiology, diagnostic work-up, lab interpretation and management of disorders.
Prerequisite Continued progress in MPAS Program.
Instructor Dr. Uremovich
Credit 2 semester hours
Two Five-Week Clinical Rotations. 10 semester hours
Seventh Semester (Fall – Final Semester) MPAS 625 PANCE Preparation II. In this second course, students are prepared to successfully
complete the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE), necessary for
entering medical practice. Students learn strategies for successful study and successful
completion of board-style exams. Students are prepared to take a systems approach, integrating
all aspects of medicine, including medical and surgical disorders encountered in general adult
and pediatric medicine. Topics also include typical clinical presentation, etiology,
pathophysiology, diagnostic work-up, lab interpretation and management of disorders.
Prerequisite MPAS 624 PANCE Preparation II
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Instructor Dr. Uremovich
Credit 2 semester hours
MPAS 710 Summative Evaluation. This course provides a summative evaluation tool to measure
cognitive, motor and effective domains at a point near the students’ completion of the program.
Students perform an objective standardized clinical examination (OSCE) in order to demonstrate
competency in interpersonal skills, comprehensive physical examination skills and professional
bearing. Students complete an end-of-course written examination providing proof of medical
knowledge and clinical competence.
Prerequisite Successful completion of preceding courses in MPAS Program
Instructor Dr. Uremovich
Credit 1 semester hour
MPAS 720 Capstone Project Completion. Students complete the Capstone Project first defined
and discussed in MPAS 580 Research, Epidemiology, and Statistics, and MPAS 620 Capstone
Project Review. Students formally present the findings to peers and instructors.
Prerequisite MPAS 620 Capstone Project Review
Instructor Dr. Uremovich
Credit 4 semester hours
One Five-Week Clinical Rotation. 5 semester hours
ACADEMIC POLICIES Students will be provided a copy of program goals and competencies at orientation. Each course
and clinical rotation syllabus has course descriptions and objectives required that guide student
learning and list competencies that students achieve during each course.
Students who are enrolled in the program must earn grades of C (2.0) or better in all courses and
maintain an overall GPA of 3.0 to remain in good academic standing in the program. Students
are expected to understand and adhere to the codes and standards of the profession and generic
abilities in professional behavior.
Students are required to be in good academic standing to enter the clinical year. Students who
receive less than a C in a didactic course or who have less than a 3.0 GPA will be required to
repeat the course(s) and earn at least a C and an overall 3.0 GPA prior to entering clinical
rotations. Specific learning objectives are distributed to students for each clinical rotation.
Grades are based on mid-point and final evaluations by clinical preceptors, end-of-rotation
exams, professional seminar attendance and student presentations. If a student fails to obtain a
minimum grade of C in a clinical rotation, he or she is placed on academic probation and the
rotation must be repeated. Students who fail to obtain a minimum grade of C in two clinical
rotations will be subject to dismissal from the program.
Any didactic course or clinical rotation that is required to be repeated will also incur additional tuition charges of $667 per semester hour. Such repetitions will lengthen the program beyond 27 months.
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A student’s readiness to graduate will be determined by an overall GPA of 3.0, successful
completion of required courses, clinical rotations, demonstration of written and oral
proficiencies, successful completion of required objective structured clinical examinations
(OSCEs), completion of the required total semester hours for the program and completion of a
Capstone project. Students who complete the program in good academic and financial standing
by the end of the fall semester final exam period graduate in December.
Wingate University is operated on a nondiscriminatory basis. Wingate University abides by the
provisions of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title XI of Educational Amendments of
1972 and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Section 504.
STUDENT PRIVACY AND INFORMED CONSENT Students in the Department of Physician Assistant Studies are granted privacy through the
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) enacted to protect the privacy
associated with educational records, to establish the rights of students to inspect and review their
educational records and to provide guidelines for the correction of inaccurate or misleading data
through informal and formal hearings.
In compliance with FERPA, the Wingate University Department of Physician Assistant Studies
requires its students’ informed consent to the sharing of personal information with its educational
partners (clinical rotation sites) strictly on a need-to-know basis. This personal information may
include, but is not limited to, social security numbers, immunization records, e-mail addresses,
telephone numbers, results of health care tests, results of credit checks and criminal records
known to Wingate University. Notice is hereby given that random drug screenings or additional
criminal background checks may be requested of the students at any time during the didactic or
clinical years as well as for placement in certain clinical rotation sites as standard operating
procedure. The student may be responsible for the cost of drug screenings or additional criminal
background checks.
CODES OF PROFESSIONAL AND ACADEMIC CONDUCT Each student in the Department of Physician Assistant Studies will be given the Student
Handbook pertinent to the guidelines of acceptable and unacceptable conduct. Included in this
Handbook are guidelines for professional appearance and conduct during the didactic and
clinical years.
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PROJECTED TUITION
Tuition 2008-2009 Didactic Year* $24,000
Fall Spring Summer
$8,000 $8,000 $8,000
Tuition 2009-2010 Clinical Year* $24,000
Fall Spring Summer
$8,000 $8,000 $8,000
Tuition Fall 2010* $8,000
TOTAL COST* $56,000
* These figures are subject to change, and the 2009-2010 costs have not been determined.
STUDENTS’ EMPLOYMENT Students in the PA program may not work full-time due to the demands of both didactic and
clinical years. Part-time work is strongly discouraged as well. Financial assistance for tuition
and living expenses is available through student loans and will be coordinated through the
Financial Planning office at Wingate University.
STUDENTS’ HOUSING Graduate students are not eligible to live in on-campus housing.
ADDITIONAL EXPENSES FOR THE PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT PROGRAM
Textbooks Additional costs for the PA program will include the purchase of medical textbooks (for both the
didactic and clinical years).
Medical Equipment, Attire Students are required to purchase VH dissection software, medical equipment (such as a quality
stethoscope, otoscope, ophthalmoscope, sphygmomanometer, lab coats, patches and name tags,
etc.). These additional costs will be in the range of $2,000.
Laptop Students are required to have a laptop computer for use in the PA Program.
• Processor speed ranging from 1.3 Ghz to 2.15 Ghz
• RAM - (Random Access Memory) - 512MB or more
• Hard Drive - minimum 60GB
Applicants will be interviewed in March
or April 2008 for admission into the class
beginning August 2008. Upon
notification of acceptance into the
program, each applicant must pay a
$1,500 nonrefundable tuition deposit
within 10 days to confirm and secure the
applicant’s place in the inaugural class.
The deposit will be applied to the first
year’s tuition if the student continues in
the program.
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• Wireless standard 802.11b/g
• CD/DVD or DVD/CD Burner drive
• CD-ROM drive
• Microsoft Windows XP SP2 (Professional) (No VistaTM
or Macintosh)
• Microsoft Office Suite Student and Teacher Edition
• Antivirus Software
• Service Plan
LICENSING Graduates of Wingate University Department of Physician Assistant Studies will be eligible to
apply for licensing in any state or territory of the United States.
North Carolina Medical Board
1203 Front Street
Raleigh, NC 27609-7533
PO Box 20007
Raleigh, NC 27619-0007
Telephone (919) 326-1100, (919) 326-1109
Fax (919) 326-0036
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FACULTY Rosalind V. Becker MS PA-C ........................... Assistant Professor and Academic Coordinator
• MS Education and Leadership, Arizona School of Health Sciences (2005)
• BS Health Professions, Kettering College of Medical Arts (2000)
• AS Physician Assistant, Kettering College of Medical Arts (1995)
• AS Medical Lab Technology, Orange County Community College (1974)
John F. Hartness, Jr., MD .............................................................................. Assistant Professor
• MD, University of North Carolina School of Medicine (1970)
• BS, Davidson College (1966)
Susan S. Lester MD..................................................... Assistant Professor and Medical Director
• MD, University of Virginia, School of Medicine (1997)
• BS Human Development and Family Studies, University of Illinois (1993)
Laura L. Lupton MD ....................................................................................... Assistant Professor
• MHSA St. Joseph's College of Maine (2005)
• MD St. Matthew's University School of Medicine (2001)
• MS Biology University of North Carolina Charlotte (1995)
• BFA Drama Western Carolina University Summa Cum Laude, Phi Kappa Phi (1989)
C. Brian Odom PhD ........................................................................................ Associate Professor
• PhD Biology, University of South Carolina (1990)
• MS Biology, Georgia Southern College (1985)
• BS Biology, Wofford College (1983)
Robert B. Supernaw PharmD ................................. Professor and Dean of School of Pharmacy • PharmD, University of the Pacific (1972)
• AA, Long Beach City College (1967)
Gary R. Uremovich DMin MPAS PA-C .................. Assistant Professor and Program Director
• DMin Church Administration, Trinity College and Theological Seminary (2007)
• MPAS Emergency Medicine, University of Nebraska (1997)
• MS Educational Counseling, Vanderbilt University, Peabody School for Teachers (1997)
• BS Psychology Magna cum laude, University of Maryland (1979)
• BS Allied Health/Physician Assistant honor graduate University of Nebraska (1976)
Michael B. Whitehead DHSc PA-C ..................... Assistant Professor and Clinical Coordinator
• DHSc, Nova Southeastern University (2005)
• MPAS, University of Nebraska (2000)
• BS Applied Science (Physician Assistant), Creighton University
• Bachelor General Studies, Chaminade University of Honolulu (1986)
• Physician Assistant Program, U.S. Army Academy of Health Science (1984)