As students train to take on the role of healthcare providers, SPAS dress code policy is meant to guide them to "dress the part," ensuring a smooth transition from the didactic to the clinical year. Though we value diversity in tastes, adhering to the dress code policy will help promote the credibility of developing clinicians among faculty, staff, the medical community and members of the community at large. Discretion in appearance means students are expected to avoid clothing that is too casual, too formal or too trendy, as well as adhering to specific guidelines described below.

During the didactic year there three basic levels of dress depending on the expected activities for the day. Professional dress is required whenever a guest is present on campus or during any on- or off-site academic or clinical activity. Casual dress (see definition below) is recommended for most days during PA faculty lectures or activities. Skills days may require professional dress or scrubs (black or any solid color besides gray) or other special attire based on the needs for practicing elements of the physical exam, to be decided by the instructor.

At all times students are required to wear their student ID both on campus, at off-site activities and at clinical sites.  All students must identify themselves as PA students during program activities and during clinical rotations. Short white coats with the program patch provided by SPAS should be worn by students while on clinical rotations, as well as any additional photo ID badge provided by the clinical site. During the clinical phase, a clinical site’s dress code policy may supersede SPAS guidelines. In these circumstances, the student must always wear a photo badge or other identification that indicates their status as a student at all times. 

At all times

• General appearance must be neat, clean, and well-groomed.
• Ostentatious jewelry such as nose, tongue, or eyebrow rings/studs, excessive numbers of earrings, or lewd or suggestive symbols are not appropriate.
• Inappropriate tattoos should be covered and not visible.
• Deeply cut necklines or armholes, spaghetti strap tops, off-the-shoulder, midriff- or waistline-exposing styles, revealing or very tight clothing, and sleepware (pajamas) should always be avoided.
• Thong/flip-flop style sandals and bedroom footwear (slippers) are not acceptable. 

Professional Dress

• Appropriate styles may include dresses, skirts, skorts or slacks with a blouse, dressy top, or sweater. Skirts or dresses should be no more than 4 inches above the knee.
• Sleeveless dresses, tops, or blouses are acceptable provided no part of the bra is visible.
• Slacks should be worn with a long- or short-sleeved shirt or dress polo shirt. Ties may be required at the discretion of the clinical preceptor/site.
• Inappropriate styles include t-shirts, sportswear, exercise wear, sweats, shorts, or jeans.
• No scent shall be worn, including but not limited to tobacco scent.
• Long hair should be tied back during clinical activities or simulations.
• Nails must be short, clean, and smooth.
• Dress shoes, nice boots, and sandals are appropriate, but open-toed shoes should not be worn in the clinical setting. 

Casual Dress

• Dress jeans are permitted, provided they have a finished hem and no holes.
• T-shirts are acceptable if they are without lewd or suggestive wording or symbols.
• Leggings are acceptable if the top covers the upper thighs.
• Tennis shoes may be worn.

Please use discretion with casual wear on campus or in the PA classroom. Students dressed inappropriately could be asked to leave an event, class, or clinical setting, resulting in an unexcused absence.