Physician Assistant Studies

This intense course covers advanced study of the structure and development of the human body. Structural features are studied by gross dissection using whole body donors, demonstration, anatomical models, and cross section. Emphasis is placed on structure and the relationship of anatomic configuration to diagnosis clinical problems. Student evaluation is accomplished through written practical examinations.

This course will examine the underlying biochemical, cellular, and physiological changes which occur in human disease. Emphasis will be placed on the most common conditions. This course integrates general pathology and laboratory medicine to prepare the student for the clinical medicine course.

This is an entry level course designed to provide the student with a logical and systematic approach to clinical reasoning and patient interaction skills.  The process of clinical reasoning involves multiple steps beginning with understanding the PA’s role in the current healthcare system.  From there the components of the clinical encounter. This would include history gathering, patient interview, generating hypotheses for the patient’s problem, testing the hypotheses, working diagnosis, planning the diagnostic and treatment strategy and record keeping. Progressing forward the students learning experience will include patient general inspection, common and concerning symptoms, vital signs, and an introduction to the dermatologic and musculoskeletal exams.

Clinical Medicine II is an advanced course designed to deepen students' knowledge of diagnosing and managing complex medical conditions across various specialties. It emphasizes a systems-based approach to understanding disease processes, integrating pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostics, and treatment options. Key topics include cardiology, endocrinology, gastroenterology, pulmonology, and infectious diseases. The course also highlights evidence-based medicine and clinical decision-making skills, preparing students to effectively manage patients in diverse healthcare settings and preparing them for clinical rotations.

CCRS Lab II builds on core clinical communication and reasoning skills, with a focus on written and oral medical documentation. Students will practice writing History and Physicals (H&Ps), SOAP notes, and prescriptions, as well as additional documentation skills like pre-operative H&Ps, operative notes, and discharge summaries. The course emphasizes evidence-based decision-making through the use of credible medical resources. Students engage in problem-based learning, simulation activities, and hands-on practice with the NJM Healer platform. Focus areas include body system approaches and the top 10 ICD-10 codes to prepare for real-world clinical documentation.

In Clinical Skills Lab I, students will develop comprehensive physical exam skills across the lifespan, organized by body systems. They will also learn essential clinical techniques such as suturing, IV insertion, injections, and surgical operating room procedures. Instruction takes place through weekly lectures and small group settings to ensure thorough understanding and hands-on practice. Students will receive certification in Basic Life Support (BLS). The course includes training in minor procedures, providing students with a comprehensive clinical toolkit for patient care.

Clinical Medicine III is the final course in the series, focusing on more advanced and specialized areas of medicine. Students will explore topics such as neurology, nephrology, rheumatology, dermatology, and hematology/oncology. Emphasis will be placed on the integration of diagnostic techniques, therapeutic interventions, and the management of complex or multisystem conditions. The course continues to promote evidence-based practice and clinical reasoning, preparing students for real-world application in clinical settings and strengthening their readiness for clinical rotations and future patient care.

CCRS Lab III is an advanced, hands-on course designed to help students refine and master clinical decision-making and reasoning skills. This lab-based course focuses on simulation, problem-based learning (PBL), and Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs), enabling students to integrate knowledge from previous coursework. Through immersive clinical scenarios, students will develop their ability to apply critical thinking, diagnose complex conditions, and formulate treatment plans. The course prepares students for real-world patient interactions by strengthening their clinical reasoning and communication skills in diverse clinical settings.

Clinical Skills Lab II builds upon the foundational skills learned in Clinical Skills Lab 1, with an emphasis on completing a comprehensive physical exam across all body systems. Students will refine their examination techniques, focusing on integration of clinical findings with diagnostic reasoning. In addition to completing the full physical exam, this course further develops technical proficiencies in suturing, IV insertion, injections, and advanced operating room skills such as sterile technique, gowning, and gloving. Small group instruction ensures hands-on practice in minor procedures and technical tasks. Students will complete certification in Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) as part of the course.