Thomas Jefferson UniversityJefferson School of Health Professions

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The TJU Physician Assistant Program is designed to provide students with the skills and activities that enhance their professional and personal growth as physician assistants through course objectives which cover three areas of learning: Cognitive Skills (knowledge base), Psychomotor Skills (manipulative and motor skills), and Affective Skills (attitudes and values). 

The graduate will be able to demonstrate:

  1. The knowledge of the structures of the human body and how they function at the biochemical and physiological level.
  2. An understanding of the common pathophysiological disturbances that occur in each of the organ systems and those disease processes in human beings that result.
  3. The knowledge of the principles of drug absorption, distribution, action, toxicity, and elimination.
  4. A practical, working knowledge of commonly prescribed drugs.
  5. The knowledge and the application of the use of the clinical laboratory in the diagnosis and management of disease states.
  6. An understanding of the health care and social service systems, and the role of the PA/Physician Team within those systems.
  7. The knowledge, appreciation, and application of legal and ethical concepts related to medical care.
  8. An understanding of the PA profession, its origin, and development.
  9. The application of critical thinking to the solution of medical problems.
  10. The knowledge and ability to perform the skills necessary for patient evaluation, monitoring, diagnostic/therapeutics, counseling, and appropriate referral.
  11. The ability to effectively communicate with patients, patients’ families, physicians, and various other professional associates.
  12. An understanding of the principles of scientific inquiry and research design, so that they will be able to apply those principles to critically interpret medical literature and enhance their ability to provide quality health care.
  13. The attitudes and skills which show a commitment to personal growth and sensitivity to cultural and individual differences throughout a diverse patient population.
  14. The attitudes and skills, which show a commitment to professional behaviors and respect for self and others.