Graduate Learning Outcomes (GLO)

Upon graduation from the School of PA Studies, graduates will have the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and educational experiences to demonstrate competently the following functions and tasks:

Medical Knowledge

1.1 Apply knowledge of biomedical and clinical sciences to patient care
1.2 Evaluate and analyze clinical presentations of diseases and conditions
1.3 Select and accurately interpret appropriate diagnostic testing
1.4 Formulate appropriate differential diagnoses
1.5 Discriminate the most likely diagnosis
1.6  Develop thorough patient-centered management plans
1.7 Distinguish the indications, contraindications, side effects, and interactions for commonly used pharmaceuticals
1.8 Explain the process of health promotion and disease prevention during patient care

Interpersonal Skills

2.1 Employ effective communication skills
2.2 Utilize adaptive communication styles taking into consideration the influence of culture, age, ethnicity, education, and socioeconomic backgrounds
2.3 Operate as an effective member of the health care team
2.4 Address biases that lead to disparities

Clinical and Technical Skills

3.1 Provide patient and setting-specific assessment, evaluation, and management
3.2 Conduct appropriate histories and physical examinations for patients of all ages
3.3 Provide well-organized oral presentations and clear clinical documentation  
3.4 Apply patient safety strategies in all clinical encounters
3.5 Provide effective patient education and patient counseling
3.6 Perform technical skills and procedures safely and accurately
3.7 Demonstrate appropriate application of technical skills

Professional Behaviors

4.1 Adhere to legal and regulatory requirements
4.2 Utilize respectful and professional communication with patients, families, collaborating physicians, and interprofessional healthcare team members
4.3 Demonstrate personal integrity, compassion, honesty, and responsibility in all interactions
4.4 Apply ethical principles in professional interactions
4.5 Promote the PA profession
4.6 Advocate for the communities we serve

Clinical Reasoning and Problem-Solving Abilities 

5.1 Demonstrate medically-sound decision making
5.2 Research and interpret current medical literature to answer clinical questions  
5.3 Apply evidence-based medicine principles to patient care
5.4 Identify knowledge gaps, refer to and consult with appropriate healthcare professionals when indicated
5.5 Utilize critical thinking skills

Adapted from AAPA, ARC-PA, PAEA, NCCPA (2012). Competencies for the Physician Assistant Profession.