CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Physicians Assistant students at the University of Charleston will graduate Thursday night, as part of the program’s first graduating class.
The Master of Physician Assistant Studies program was introduced back in 2011, with the first class implemented in 2013.
A total of 28 students will receive an academic hood signifying the completion of the program during the inaugural Hooding Ceremony Thursday.
The 28-month program is comprised of 16 months of classroom work followed by 12 months of clinical rotations.
Jennifer Pack, UC Physicians Assistants Program Director, said the program is unique.
“In the state of West Virginia, we are one of three PA programs. There’s one at West Liberty (University) and Alderson Broaddus (University),” said Pack.
The program utilizes resources from Charleston Area Medical Center and the Association of Standardized Patient Educators to train actors to serve as patients. Pack said one of their goals is to teach students to put the patient’s needs above their own.
“We want students who are committed to patient care. We always tell them that as they’re struggling through studies, getting tired, and have final exams that ‘you need to be thinking about the patient,'” she said.
Pack said in the early stages of getting the program together, one of their main goals was to train students to be well-rounded individuals.
She said it’s important students have the medical knowledge, but they wanted people who are compassionate, caring, committed, and active in the community.
“We also want someone who is active in the profession–join state, regional, national organizations and become leaders in the profession.”
Pack said she believes all 28 students will be able to find jobs after graduation. She said the PA profession is booming because there is a high medical need and not enough providers to provide care.
“I have no doubt we’ll have 100% placement,” she said.
The ceremony is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at Riggleman Hall.