Curriculum
The PA program is divided into two phases, spanning 28 consecutive months over seven semesters.
Phase I, the 16-month pre-clinical year, spans four consecutive semesters (66.5 credit hours) and incorporates traditional classroom interaction with clinical skills development and simulated patient interaction through the Sentara Center for Simulation and Immersive Learning.
In Phase II (33 credit hours), students complete eight clinical field experiences with supervised, direct patient care in various medical and surgical disciplines, which form the basis of the professional socialization process and adaptation to the role and functions of a physician assistant.
Most of the clinical sites are located throughout Hampton Roads. Opportunities exist for clinical placements outside the region and for students to initiate new rotation sites. However, international clinical placements are not an option.
Graduates are required to pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) and meet state-specific regulations in order to practice clinically.
Faculty and Staff
Program Directors
Kimberly K. Dempsey, EdD, MPA, PA-C, Program Director
Richard Conran, PhD, MD, JD, Medical Director
Jayne R. Penne, MSPAS, PA-C, Admissions Director
Shannon M. Morris, MPA, PA-C, Admissions Director
Angela J. Cerezo, MPA, PA-C, Academic Director and Clinical Director
Program Staff
Elise E. DeWitt
Tiffany L. Smith
Erin L. Suit
Core Faculty
Courtney C. Anderson, MPA, PA-C, Associate Professor
Bradford N. Boyette, MBA, MPA, PA-C, Assistant Professor
Amy P. Fantaskey, MD, Assistant Professor
W. Travis Kirby, MPAS, PA-C, Associate Professor
Arun M. Ram, MBBS, MD, Associate Professor
Lori S. Shelton, MMS, PA-C, Assistant Professor
Jennifer M. Wohl, DHSc, PA-C, Associate Professor
Additional Faculty
Paul F. Aravich, PhD, Professor
Craig W. Goodmurphy, PhD, Professor
Tom G. Parish, DHSc, PA-C Emeritus, DFAAPA, Professor Emeritus
Dan T. Thibodeau, MHP, PA-C, DFAAPA, Associate Professor
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