Sequence of Courses

The following is a sequence of courses, with linked course descriptions, as you'll need to take them each semester.

Semester I (Fall)

Course

PAMN 409 - Human Anatomy (4 Credits)

An integrated lecture-laboratory course in gross anatomy designed to provide an understanding of the structural and functional anatomy of the human body relevant to the needs of the physician assistant. Clinical problems are used to highlight the importance of anatomy to the understanding of the clinical sciences. Sections covered include general anatomical concepts, central nervous system, upper extremities and back, head and neck, thorax and abdomen, perineum, pelvis and lower extremities. The laboratory component of the course entails a combination of prosection demonstrations in a cadaver lab and sessions in the computer lab.

PAMN 411 - Physiology (4 Credits)

This is a comprehensive course which will provide an understanding of physiological mechanisms by which the human body functions in health and disease. Lectures analyze the physiological basis of fluid homeostasis, the role of excitable membranes, nerve and muscle function, the central nervous system, blood and hemostasis, the cardiovascular system, respiratory function, renal control of fluid and electrolyte balance, acid-base balance, endocrine and reproductive functions. In all topics, there is integration of physiological principles, pathophysiology, and clinical medicine.

PAMN 413 - Clinical Biochemistry (2 Credits)

A course in human biochemistry with relevant clinical correlations. Includes structure and function of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids. The metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, amino acids, and nucleotides is studied. Also explored are effects of enzyme deficiencies, biochemical and genetic mechanisms of human disease (e.g. diabetes, hemoglobinopathies, inborn errors of metabolism), nutrition, and vitamin deficiencies.

PAMN 417 - Physical Diagnosis I (4 Credits)

The first semester of a 2-semester course consisting of lecture and laboratory. The lecture component introduces the student to the concepts and techniques of medical interviewing, obtaining an accurate history, and performing a physical examination system by system. The course covers the practical terminology utilized in recording a medical history and physical examination, and in describing clinical findings associated with common pathologies seen in each system. The laboratory portion, taught in small group settings, emphasizes the hands-on skills necessary to perfect the techniques of the physical exam. Emphasis is also placed on perfecting the written history and physical. The medical Spanish self-study portion of this course is designed to provide rudimentary knowledge of the language to aid in communication when interviewing Spanish-speaking patients.

PAMN 423 - Psychosocial / Cultural Aspects of Health Care and the PA Role (3 Credits)

Students are introduced to concepts in health psychology and behavioral medicine, which identify the psychosocial factors contributing to health and physical and emotional well-being. Defenses and adaptations are discussed as related to the types of patients the student will work with. Other psychological responses to acute and chronic illness, end of life issues, and the psychology of the chronically ill, are discussed, as they relate to the patient and the medical practitioner. An integral part of this course focuses on the theory and method of the medical interview. Students are introduced to the techniques of modeling and role-playing and are required to participate in the roles of health care practitioner, patient, and family member. Emphasis is placed on establishing a relationship and understanding the effects of cultural diversity and personality types. Cultural competence is introduced and the students are asked to explore their own culture as well as discussion of other cultures that they will interact with.

Total Credits = 17

 

Semester II (Spring)

Course

PAMN 414 - Microbiology/Immunology (2 Credits)

Covers basic and clinical aspects of bacteriology, virology, mycology, parasitology, and immunology. Emphasis is placed on the application of microbiology concepts to clinical practice, including the systemic diseases caused by these organisms, control of microorganisms, antibiotics, the host-parasite relationship, and the establishment of disease. The immune system is discussed in detail, including topics on resistance to disease, immunity and serology, and immune disorders.

PAMN 416 - Pathology (3 Credits)

The course explores the causes and mechanisms of disease and the associated alterations of structure and function of tissues. General concepts of disease are covered, including degeneration and necrosis, inflammation and repair, fluid and coagulation disturbances, and general aspects of neoplasia. Disease entities in each organ system are studied with regard to causation, evaluation, and morphology of pathological changes.

PAMN 418 - Physical Diagnosis II (2 Credits)

he second semester of a 2-semester course consisting of lecture and laboratory. The lecture component continues with general aspects of a normal physical exam, teaching the student to recognize normal and abnormal findings, understand their significance, accurately describe and notate them, and formulate a differential diagnosis. The laboratory portion, taught in small groups, emphasizes the hands-on skills necessary to perfect the techniques of the physical exam, performed efficiently and sensitively, in a system-by-system approach. H&P writing skills are also emphasized. Students learn to perform a comprehensive and integrated physical exam without the benefit of teaching aids and in a timely manner.

Prerequisites: PAMN 417

PAMN 420 - Introduction to Clinical Pharmacology (2 Credits)

The first course in the Pharmacology sequence that introduces the basic principles of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, and their application to clinical medicine. Also explores the influence and mechanisms of action of drugs upon the autonomic nervous system. Students begin to learn mechanisms of action, therapeutic uses, major side effects, warnings, and precautions for drugs used to treat diseases covered in the clinical medicine course(s) given during the semester. Students learn the basic principles of prescription writing. Clinical case studies and problem solving sessions are introduced.

PAMN 426 - Diagnostic Modalities (3 modules - Laboratory Medicine, Diagnostic Imaging, ECG) (2 Credits)

Composed of three modules - laboratory medicine, diagnostic imaging, and ECG. Students gain competence in assessing and interpreting diagnostic tests, and learn basic clinical laboratory determinations and values and their correlation with normal and disease states. Practical sessions are given in urinalysis, hematology (CBC, hematocrit), and microbiology (Gram staining, pure culture techniques, antibiotic spectrum). Imaging modalities and their role in clinical medicine are introduced, with emphasis on conventional radiography and some discussion of ultrasound, CT, and MRI. Included are studies of the chest and abdomen, GI series, GU radiology, examination of extremities, and mammography. Basic concepts in ECG interpretation are taught, including principles of ECG tracings, rate and axis determination, and recognition of abnormal tracings.

PAMN 600 - Medicine I (1 module - Pulmonary Medicine) (1 Credits)

The first of a series of intensive medicine courses that cover the etiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of common disease entities in various areas of medicine. This course consists of the module in pulmonary medicine. The pathophysiology of the organ system in relation to the various disease processes is integrated with the clinical presentations, historical and physical findings, and laboratory and radiographic test results. Emphasis is placed on application of new medical knowledge to clinical situations, on diagnostic problem-solving and differential diagnosis, and on issues of patient education and preventive medicine. Students refine their ability to reason independently in developing treatment and management plans for various patient presentations.

PAMN 605 - Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine (2 Credits)

Deals with psychiatric and mental health disorders frequently encountered in outpatient settings. Lectures cover basic human behavior, psychological development and personality functioning, and major mental illnesses. Topics include depression, anxiety, phobia, psychosis, neurosis, and personality disorders. Human sexuality, sexual concerns and dysfunction are also discussed, and the relationship between drugs, health, and society is examined. The course provides a basic framework for treating the common psychiatric disorders that are seen in general medical practices, and an understanding of when specialized referral is needed. Emphasis is placed on application of new medical knowledge to clinical situations, and on diagnostic problem-solving and differential diagnosis. Students refine their ability to reason independently in developing treatment and management plans for various patient presentations.

PAMN 611 - Obstetrics/Gynecology (2 Credits)

Students are instructed in the process and management of normal pregnancy, obtaining an obstetrical history and physical, labor and delivery, and their associated complications. Clinical manifestations, pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of common gynecological problems such as sexually-transmitted illnesses, menstrual disorders, and neoplasms are considered. Patient education is stressed as a crucial part of the management plan.

Total Credits = 16

 

Semester III (Summer)

Course

PAMN 601 - Medicine II (2 modules - Cardiology, Hematology) (3 Credits)

An intensive medicine course that covers the etiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of common diseases in the modules of cardiology and hematology. The pathophysiology of the organ systems in relation to the various disease processes is integrated with the clinical presentations, historical and physical findings, and laboratory and radiographic test results. Emphasis is placed on application of new medical knowledge to clinical situations, on diagnostic problem-solving and differential diagnosis, and on issues of patient education and preventive medicine. Students refine their ability to reason independently in developing treatment and management plans for various patient presentations. Common cardiac disorders seen in primary care are considered, such as coronary artery disease, angina, cardiac enlargement, arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, and hypertension. Clinical case scenarios and ECG interpretation are utilized to reinforce the lecture material and to develop critical thinking skills. Students learn the clinical approach to hematologic disorders, such as anemias, hemoglobinopathies, and disorders of hemostasis, and are also introduced to hematologic oncology.

PAMN 602 - Medicine III (3 modules - Gastroenterology, Dermatology, Rheumatology) (3 Credits)

An intensive medicine course that covers the etiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of common diseases in the modules of gastroenterology, dermatology, and rheumatology. The pathophysiology of the organ systems in relation to the various disease processes is integrated with the clinical presentations, historical and physical findings, and laboratory and radiographic test results. Emphasis is placed on application of new medical knowledge to clinical situations, on diagnostic problem-solving and differential diagnosis, and on issues of patient education and preventive medicine. Students refine their ability to reason independently in developing treatment and management plans for various patient presentations.

PAMN 603 - Medicine IV (2 modules - Neurology, Ophthalmology) (2 Credits)

An intensive medicine course that covers the etiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of common diseases in the modules of neurology and ophthalmology. The pathophysiology of the organ systems in relation to the various disease processes is integrated with the clinical presentations, historical and physical findings, and laboratory and radiographic test results. Emphasis is placed on application of new medical knowledge to clinical situations, on diagnostic problem-solving and differential diagnosis, and on issues of patient education and preventive medicine. Students refine their ability to reason independently in developing treatment and management plans for various patient presentations.

PAMN 606 - Pharmacology I (2 Credits)

A continuation of PAMN 420, in which students learn the clinical therapeutics essential in treating clinical conditions. Provides the student with a detailed understanding of a drug category\'s mechanism of action, therapeutic uses, major side effects, warnings, and precautions of the drugs used to treat diseases covered in the clinical medicine course(s) given during the semester. Classification of drugs is covered in depth. Practical prescription writing and legalities of prescription writing as they pertain to PA\'s are incorporated into clinical case studies and problem solving sessions.

Prerequisites: PAMN 420

PAMN 610 - Pediatrics (2 Credits)

Students learn the physiological and psychological fundamentals of normal growth and development as they pertain to the pediatric and adolescent patient. Topics covered include neonatology and infant nutritional requirements, preventive immunization schedules, child abuse and childhood injuries. Students are also introduced to the embryology of specific organ systems, which illustrates normal developmental anatomy and the embryological basis for congenital anomalies of the systems. Via a systems approach, students study common childhood illnesses and their signs, symptoms, and treatment.

PAMN 620 - Surgery I (2 Credits)

The first in a series of courses dealing with general surgical concepts in the management of the surgical patient. Provides students with a core understanding of mechanisms of wound healing, surgical techniques, and pre- and post-operative management of surgical problems. Included are illnesses that require surgical intervention, their signs and symptoms, diagnostic modalities, and outcomes. Also covered are basic concepts in anesthesiology.

PAMN 625 - Emergency Medicine I (1 Credit)

The first of a two-semester course sequence dealing with the management and treatment options of severely injured and critically ill patients. Students are taught the key points of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical features and differential diagnosis of many disease entities, as they may present in the Emergency Department. They will learn the art of drawing sufficient conclusions from insufficient resources. Topics include pulmonary and cardiac emergencies, GI emergencies, infections in the ED, renal and GU emergencies, GYN and obstetrical emergencies, psychosocial emergencies, and disaster management.

PAMN 630 - Geriatrics (1 Credit)

Geriatrics is the study of normal aging, health and disease in the elderly population. The students will study long term care and the social and societal aspects of aging in the United States. The students will be exposed to the complex issues arising in caring for the chronically ill elderly. The course emphasizes development of communication skills to enhance the humanistic practice of geriatric medicine and prepares the PA to provide quality health care to elderly individuals in the community, long term care settings and acute care settings. Many core geriatric problems, i.e. dementia, depression, decubitus ulcers and incontinence are covered. Students also explore the ethical/legal issues of geriatric care.

Total Credits = 16

 

Semester IV (Fall)

Course

PAMN 604 - Medicine V (3 modules - Nephrology, Endocrinology, Infectious Diseases) (2 Credits)

An intensive medicine course that covers the etiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of common diseases in the modules of nephrology, endocrinology, and infectious diseases. The pathophysiology of the organ systems in relation to the various disease processes is integrated with the clinical presentations, historical and physical findings, and laboratory and radiographic test results. Emphasis is placed on application of new medical knowledge to clinical situations, on diagnostic problem-solving and differential diagnosis, and on issues of patient education and preventive medicine. Students refine their ability to reason independently in developing treatment and management plans for various patient presentations.

PAMN 607 - Pharmacology II (2 Credits)

A continuation of PAMN 606, in which students learn the clinical therapeutics essential in treating clinical conditions. Provides the student with a detailed understanding of a drug category\'s mechanism of action, therapeutic uses, major side effects, warnings, and precautions of the drugs used to treat diseases covered in the clinical medicine course(s) during the same semester. Classification of drugs continues to be covered in depth. Practical prescription writing and legalities of prescription writing as they pertain to PA\'s are further incorporated into clinical case studies and problem solving sessions.

Prerequisites: PAMN 420

PAMN 621 - Surgery II (2 Credits)

A continuation of PAMN 620 and the second in a series considering topics in surgical subspecialties, providing students with the academic preparation to evaluate and manage patients with surgical conditions in a clinical setting. Areas covered are urology, cardiovascular surgery, pediatric surgery, plastic and reconstructive surgery, hand surgery, head and neck surgery, and transplant. Included is a practical session in suturing, knot tying, and sterile technique. Students learn about critical care management and how to function as members of a critical care team in the ICU, CCU, and NICU. Topics covered include basic physiologic needs of critical care patients, gas exchange kinetics and pathophysiology, management of multi-organ failure, burn trauma, and neonatal intensive care. An essential focus of the course is the development of skills in clinical reasoning, self-directed learning, teamwork, and communication. Emphasis is placed on the application of new medical/surgical knowledge to clinical situations.

Prerequisites: PAMN 620

PAMN 622 - Surgery III (3 modules - Orthopedics, ENT, Special Topics) (2 Credits)

This advanced surgery course encompasses the surgical subspecialties of orthopedics, otolaryngology (ENT), and other special topics. The orthopedics section considers the diagnosis and treatment of sprains, fractures, and dislocations, preparation and application of bandages, splints, and casts. Common orthopedic problems of the hand, knee, shoulder, and back are covered. Included is a practical session in casting/splinting. The otolaryngology unit reviews the structure and function of the ears, nose, parotid glands, oral cavity, and larynx. Emphasis is placed on the recognition, diagnosis, and treatment of common ENT disorders. Normal growth patterns, abnormalities, and the special senses (hearing, taste, and smell) are presented as each unit is presented. Lectures also cover the use of such basic diagnostic modalities as audiograms, tympanograms, and direct and indirect nasopharyngoscopy. Special topics include lectures in neurosurgery, neoplasms, and degenerative spine disease. Emphasis is placed on application of new medical/surgical knowledge to clinical situations, and on diagnostic problem-solving and differential diagnosis. Students refine their ability to reason independently in assessing treatment options for various patient presentations.

Prerequisites: PAMN 620

PAMN 626 - Emergency Medicine II (2 Credits)

This is the second of a two-semester course sequence. Students are taught the key points of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical features and differential diagnosis of many disease entities, as they may present in the Emergency Department. Also includes the recognition and appropriate early intervention and management of traumatic injuries. Other topics include toxicology, dental emergencies, environmental emergencies, ENT emergencies, burns, neurological emergencies, pediatric emergencies, hematologic and oncologic emergencies, and endocrine emergencies.

Prerequisites: PAMN 625

PAMN 635 - Clinical Procedures and Correlations (2 Credits)

Enables the student to develop and perfect skills that will be required on clinical rotations. The course encompasses Clinical Experiences, Clinical Procedures, and Clinical Correlations. The Clinical Experiences component provides the students with direct patient contact wherein they can perfect their skills in history-taking, physical examination, and writing H&Ps. In the Clinical Procedures component, students learn the basic principles of sterile technique and universal precautions. There are hands-on sessions in phlebotomy, starting IVs, giving injections, placing urinary catheters and nasogastric tubes. The Clinical Correlations component allows students to fully assimilate and utilize their medical and basic sciences knowledge along with problem-oriented history and physical examination skills to analyze the types of patient health care problems they may encounter in the clinical environment. This component utilizes the problem-based learning method as an instructional model, wherein students work both in groups and individually to apply critical reasoning skills to the assessment of clinical problems and case scenarios.

MPAN 640 - Applied Epidemiology and Biostatistics (2 Credits)

As the first course in the research module, which culminates with the Master's Project, this course introduces students to common research designs in epidemiology, issues of validity and reliability in medical testing, and common techniques for analyzing group statistics. Students are also introduced to concepts of risk, population distributions and factors associated with disease, analysis of costs and benefits of intervention, as well as the knowledge necessary to interpret statistical data and research results. The course will also familiarize students with statistical concepts of frequencies, within- and between-group variability, qualitative and quantitative data, common tests of statistical significance and probability theory.

MPAN 665 - Evidence-Based Medicine (2 Credits)

This course introduces physician assistant students to principles of evidence-based practice and policy, national practice guidelines and other best-practice paradigms. Various medical practice areas will be studied in an effort to demonstrate applicability of the evidence-based approach. This course teaches students to discern evidence-based approaches in the literature and apply appropriate findings to their future practice. The exercises, discussions and readings offered in this course guide students in their development as clinicians capable of mindful critique. Furthermore, the course provides strategies for integrating this new information into the student\'s own, personalized approach to clinical practice.

Total Credits = 16