Program Curriculum

Didactic courses are held in-person.

This course provides a comprehensive study of adult human anatomy with an emphasis on clinical application using a systems-based approach. The clinical significance of topographical and radiological anatomical features is emphasized. This knowledge serves as a fundamental building block to aid in the understanding of normal adult human physiologic function and health, as well as pathologic physiologic function and human disease which will be addressed in subsequent courses. Lectures are complemented by laboratory study of anatomic images and models, simulated dissection, and identification of structures on medical imaging.   

This course provides a detailed understanding of human physiology and its application to clinical practice. A systems-based approach is utilized to study physiologic concepts and their application in medicine. Systems reviewed includes the lymphatic, hematologic, integumentary, respiratory, cardiovascular and peripheral vascular, gastrointestinal, renal, male and female reproductive, musculoskeletal, neurological, and endocrine systems. Principles of normal genetics and molecular mechanisms of health are also reviewed to include, basic DNA structure, replication, translation, mechanisms of mutation, inheritance patterns, penetrance, and expressivity. Common diagnostic physiologic studies utilized in clinical practice are also reviewed.   3 credits:  3 credits lecture (3 hours)

This course is the first in a series designed to introduce students to the physician assistant profession. Modules of content in this course include a physician assistant profession overview to include the historical development of the profession, physician assistant professional organizations, the PA role and scope of practice, and the interprofessional team. A module on documentation, coding and billing, and professionalism is also included. 2 credits:  2 credits lecture (2 hours)

This course is designed to provide instruction in interpersonal communication skills used in elicitation of a complete adult medical history.  Students also receive instruction in the performance of the complete adult physical examination to determine abnormalities in the human body.  Interpersonal skills, cultural competence, documentation, and adherence to safety and standard precautions are also covered.   4 credits:  3 credits lecture (3 hours) and 1 credit lab (2 hours)

This course is designed to provide instruction in the social and behavioral components of patient care.  Topics include health-related behaviors, working with specific patient populations, stress and disease, intimate partner violence, and palliative and end of life care.  1 credit:  1 credit lecture (1 hour)

This course expands on the principles of history-taking and physical examination by introducing musculoskeletal and neurological assessment techniques. Students refine their ability to identify normal and abnormal findings, perform special examination maneuvers, and apply diagnostic reasoning to clinical scenarios relating to the musculoskeletal and neurologic systems. Students are introduced to evidence-based practice, critical thinking, and effective communication through documentation and oral case presentations.  2 credits:  1 credit lecture (1 hour) and 1 credit lab (2 hours)

This course provides opportunity for a detailed comprehension of human pathophysiology and its application to clinical practice. A systems-based approach is utilized to study the pathophysiology and pathogenesis of diseases commonly encountered in clinical practice.  Systems reviewed includes the lymphatic, hematologic, integumentary, respiratory, cardiovascular and peripheral vascular, gastrointestinal, renal and urological, male and female reproductive, musculoskeletal, neurological, and endocrine systems.  The multi-system involvement of common disorders is highlighted to reinforce concepts of connections and interactions of systems in the adult human body. The pathophysiology of inherited disorders and cancer development are also studied to gain additional understanding of the genetic and molecular mechanisms of disease.    3 credits:  3 credits lecture (3 hours)

This course introduces the students to clinical laboratory diagnostic tests.  Commonly used laboratory tests, selection criteria, and interpretation of testing results and their corresponding disease processes are studied.    2 credits:  2 credits lecture (2 hours)

This is the first course in a sequence of three courses designed to teach the essentials of clinical adult medicine.  A body system approach is used to present the etiology, epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, laboratory and diagnostic studies, and diagnosis and treatment of common diseases.  Laboratory sessions utilize small-group patient cases in various formats to reinforce medical knowledge, develop clinical reasoning and problem-solving abilities, and to refine patient evaluation skills.  The body systems covered include dermatology, HEENT, musculoskeletal, and a module on infectious disease.   6 credits:  5 credits lecture (5 hours) and 1 credit laboratory (2 hours)

This is the first in a three-quarter course sequence designed to present principles of clinical pharmacology and pharmacotherapeutics appropriate for common medical problems seen in clinical practice. Instruction in counseling patients toward compliance, drug interactions, appropriate patient monitoring during therapy, and proper prescription writing will also be covered. Pharmacologic management of dermatological, HEENT, musculoskeletal, and infectious diseases are included.  3 credits:  3 credits lecture (3 hours)

This course is designed to present instruction on the use and interpretation of basic radiologic studies and electrocardiograms in patient assessment. Indications for use, performance characteristics, and interpretation of results are included. An emphasis is placed on plain films studies of the musculoskeletal system, chest, and abdomen, as well as 12-lead EKG’s and rhythm strips. A basic overview of diagnostic ultrasonography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging is also included.  3 credits:  3 credits lecture (3 hours)

This course provides students with an understanding of health maintenance and preventative medicine to apply in clinical practice. Topics covered include patient lifestyle, nutrition, behavioral modification, and strategies to prevent disease and support patient health. 2 credits:  2 credits lecture (2 hours)

This course provides students with an overview of the basic concepts of public health and preventative medicine as they relate to the practicing physician assistant.  Topics include disease prevention, surveillance, reporting, and intervention; the public health system; and patient advocacy and maintenance of population health.  Health as it relates to the public sector is covered through topics of health care system delivery, access to care, and health policy.  A module of instruction including social determinants of health, health disparity, racism, and historical trauma is also included.  2 credits:  2 credits lecture (2 hours)

This course provides a comprehensive study of the care of the female patient. The social context of women’s health in the greater population and its specific concerns is introduced. Assessment of the female patient at multiple points across the lifespan, to include well woman visit, prenatal, natal, postpartum, and menopausal assessment, is included. Common diseases, including the diagnosis, management, and treatment encountered in reproductive health care and gynecology, are covered.  3 credits:  3 credits lecture (3 hours)

pathophysiology, clinical presentation, laboratory and diagnostic studies, and diagnosis and treatment of common diseases. Laboratory sessions utilize small-group patient cases in various formats to reinforce medical knowledge and patient assessment skills. Integration of history and physical examination findings, along with diagnostic testing results in the context of patient cases, are used to develop clinical reasoning and problem-solving skills. The body systems covered in this course include pulmonary, gastrointestinal, hematology/oncology, and genitourinary.   6 credits:  5 credits lecture (5 hours) and 1 credit laboratory (2 hours)

This is the second in a three-quarter course sequence designed to present principles of clinical pharmacology and pharmacotherapeutics appropriate for common medical problems seen in clinical practice. Instruction in counseling patients toward compliance, drug interactions, appropriate patient monitoring during therapy, and prescription writing are covered. Pharmacologic management of preventative care, pulmonary, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, hematologic, genitourinary, and male and female reproductive health systems are included. 3 credits:  3 credits lecture (3 hours)

This course provides an organ-system and problem-oriented approach to understanding the etiology, epidemiology, pathophysiology, manifestations, laboratory and diagnostic studies, and diagnosis and treatment of specific cardiology diseases encountered in general practice. For each cardiac-related problem, related health promotion, disease prevention, and patient education topics are presented. 3 credits:  3 credits lecture (3 hours)

This course prepares students to search, interpret, and critically evaluate medical literature in order to maintain a critical, current, and operational knowledge of new medical findings.  Topics include research question framing, basic biostatistics, sampling methods, the limits of research, and the use of common medical databases.  Strategies for effective patient education and clinical application of medical research are also studied.  2 credits:  2 credits lecture (2 hours)

This course introduces the fundamentals of pediatric medicine, covering the age span from neonate through adolescence. Topics covered include: normal growth and development, preventative care, and the diagnosis and management of pediatric illnesses and disorders. 3 credits:  3 credits lecture (3 hours)

This course is designed to introduce students to acute and emergent care of patients across the lifespan.  A systems-based approach is utilized with particular focus on common patient presentations and the diagnosis and management of their causal disease processes.  Topics in managing the critically ill patient’s airway, breathing, and circulatory status are also addressed. The laboratory portion of the course includes instruction in the performance of common technical skills useful in the emergent setting.  4 credits:  3 credits lecture (3 hours) and 1 credit laboratory (2 hours)

This is the third course in a sequence of three courses designed to teach the essentials of medicine.  A body system approach is used to present the etiology, epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, laboratory and diagnostic studies, and diagnosis and treatment of common diseases.  Laboratory sessions utilize small-group patient cases in various formats to reinforce medical knowledge and patient assessment skills.  Integration of history and physical findings, along with diagnostic testing results in the context of patient cases, is used to develop clinical reasoning and problem-solving skills.  The body systems covered in this course include endocrine, renal and psychiatry with additional modules of instruction in addiction medicine.

This is the third in a three-quarter course sequence designed to present principles of clinical pharmacology and pharmacotherapeutics appropriate for common medical problems seen in clinical practice. Instruction in counseling patients toward compliance, drug interactions, appropriate patient monitoring during therapy, and prescription writing is also covered. Pharmacologic management of Psychiatric, Substance Use Disorders, Endocrine, and Neurological Systems are included. 2 credits:  2 credits lecture (2 hours

This course consists of an in-depth study of neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, and neurological development, along with a review of the neurological examination. Additionally, a comprehensive study of diseases of the neurological system with emphasis on etiology, epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, laboratory and diagnostic studies, and diagnosis and treatment of common diseases is included. 3 credits:  3 credits lecture (3 hours)

This course is designed to provide physician assistant students with a comprehensive understanding of the care of the geriatric patient. Biological, psychological, and social changes associated with aging, common diseases of the elderly, end of life issues, palliative care, as well as nuances in the effective delivery of care, are covered throughout this course. 3 credits:  3 credits lecture (3 hours)

This course is designed to provide the students with an introduction and an overview to the discipline of surgery. The management of acute surgical problems, critical illness, solid organ malignancies, and elective surgical procedures will be discussed, as well as the pre- and post-operative care of surgical patients. Laboratory sessions will teach technical skills such as sterile technique, basic suturing, universal precautions, and minor surgical procedures. .  5 credits: 3 credits lecture (3 hours) and 2 credits laboratory (4 hours)

This course is the second in a series designed to introduce students to the physician assistant profession. Content is focused on the ethical considerations and challenges that encompass the roles and responsibilities of the clinician. The laws and regulations, policies, and professional organizations that affect professional practice are explored with an emphasis on their contributions towards quality improvement and patient safety. The roles of the medical record in patient care and issues regarding medicolegal liability are also explored.   2 credits:  2 credits lecture (2 hours)

This course provides a foundation in medical research and design for healthcare providers. Students gain an understanding of how to search, review, interpret, and evaluate medical literature, then focus on a step-by-step approach to the development and implementation of medical research. 1 credit:  1 credit lecture (1 hour)

This course provides a summative evaluation of the didactic year. Focus is placed on evaluating history taking and physical examination performance skills, as well as communication and clinical reasoning ability, the ability to summarize clinical encounter findings, and demonstration of psychomotor clinical and cognitive critical thinking skills. 4 credits:  4 credits lecture (4 hours)

Clinical courses are conducted primarily in person, with possible telemedicine experiences in which preceptors are present in the room, except for the behavioral health rotation, which may be primarily via telemedicine.

*Clinical Rotations will not occur in this order for every student.

This rotation provides students with the opportunity to learn principles of general internal medicine. Under the direction of a preceptor, students evaluate and treat adult and elderly patients. Students gain exposure to patients with acute and chronic disease states and work with their preceptor to order and interpret diagnostic tests, provide therapeutic and preventative interventions, and develop appropriate plans for patient disposition and ongoing care. Additional focus is placed on fostering skills in clinical documentation and the management and monitoring of chronic disease.

This rotation provides the PA student with the opportunity to learn surgical principles, surgical pathology, and relevant laboratory and diagnostic studies as seen in surgical settings. PA students learn the indications, limitations, and methodology of surgical procedures and therapeutic strategies used in surgery today. During this rotation, the student recognizes the signs and symptoms of a variety of surgical conditions and become familiar with treatment plans appropriate to surgery. 9 credits.

This rotation provides students with the opportunity to learn the fundamental principles of family medicine.  Under the direction of a preceptor, students deliver preventative, acute, and chronic care for patients across the lifespan.  Emphasis is placed on the diagnosis and management of chronic diseases encountered in the family medicine setting.  Students develop additional skills in formulating plans for the primary and secondary prevention of disease including pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions.  9 credits.

This rotation provides students with the opportunity to learn principles of emergency medicine. Under the direction of a preceptor, students evaluate, stabilize, and treat acute and emergent conditions in patients of all ages across the lifespan.  Students gain exposure to life-threatening and emergent conditions, interact with specialists and pre-hospital providers, and develop procedural skills commonly utilized in the acute care setting.  Additional focus is placed on developing skills in the recognition of emergent disease and collaborating as part of a multidisciplinary team to deliver patient care.  9 credits.

This rotation provides the PA student with the opportunity to provide both obstetric and gynecologic care. Students evaluate, manage, and educate obstetric patients. They learn how to perform a thorough and accurate prenatal history and physical examination. Students develop a better understanding of how acute/chronic medical conditions can impact the well-being of mother and baby. Students also evaluate, manage, and educate female patients presenting with common gynecologic conditions and learn the indications and techniques of common clinical procedures utilized in obstetrics and gynecology. They learn the guidelines for preventive screenings and immunizations for the obstetric and gynecologic patient. 9 credits.

This rotation provides the PA student with the opportunity to provide pediatric care. Students learn how to obtain a history from a pediatric patient, perform well-child and problem focused examinations, formulate differential diagnoses for common pediatric chief complaints (both medical and behavioral), and create accurate assessments and plans that are culturally sensitive and age appropriate. PA students learn preventive care for the pediatric population including the immunization schedule and develop an understanding of pediatric developmental milestones and be able to provide anticipatory guidance to patients and caregivers alike. Students become familiar with pediatric growth charts and their relevance to the care of the pediatric patient.  9 credits.

This rotation provides the PA student with the opportunity to learn the fundamental principles of behavioral health. Under the supervision of the clinical preceptor, students evaluate acute, chronic, and emergent behavioral health conditions and formulate the appropriate management plan and disposition. Students become familiar with common pharmacologic interventions utilized in behavioral health patients, including the medication benefits, risk, side effects, drug interactions, and need for monitoring. Students work collaboratively with the interdisciplinary team involved in the care of Behavioral Health patients. 9 credits.

This rotation provides students with the opportunity to learn within an elective medical specialty. Under the direction of a preceptor, students evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients within the elective rotation setting.  The elective rotation setting may involve further exposure to practice within a core clinical rotation setting or a separate domain.  In addition to skills relevant to the elective setting, continued core competencies in patient evaluation, communication, professionalism, and interprofessional practice are developed. 9 credits.

This course builds upon foundational knowledge obtained in the didactic curriculum in PAS5351 Evidence Based Medicine and PAS 5551 Research Design and Methodology. Students are advised as they work in groups to identify a clinical challenge and search, evaluate, and synthesize current scientific literature to draw conclusions and guide medical decision making and patient care. This course culminates in well-executed synthesis research that enhances Physician Assistant practice. 3 credits.

The following criteria must be met to qualify for graduation with the South College Asheville Master of Health Science in Physician Assistant Studies degree:

Each candidate for the Master of Health Science in Physician Assistant Studies degree must be free of indebtedness to the College. The graduate degree and the academic transcript or certification of completion will not be issued until all financial obligations to South College have been met.

Matriculation and attendance at the College are privileges granted to the student in consideration of performance of specified assignments and the maintenance of established standards of personal and professional conduct. The College reserves the right, and the student, by the act of matriculation, concedes to the College the right to require withdrawal at any time the College deems it necessary to safeguard the standards of scholarship, conduct, and compliance with regulations, or for such other reasons deemed appropriate by the College as set forth in the South College Catalog.