2015/16 Taught Postgraduate Programme Catalogue

PGDip Physician Associate Studies

Total credits: 120

Entry requirements:

Normally, at least a 2(ii) Honours degree in a health related degree. The 2(ii) requirement is in line with our benchmark institution, St George’s, University of London.
Alternative academic qualifications may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Since the programme is designed to meet workforce need, we do not wish to discourage candidates already in the workforce, or who have had career breaks and who have appropriate work experience and can demonstrate the ability to study at M level, from applying.
English language requirements: IETLS 7.5 overall with 7.5 in Spoken English. The language requirements are specified in line with the medical undergraduate programme. The expectation is that Physician Associates will require a similar command of English.

School/Unit responsible for the parenting of students and programme:

School of Medicine

Examination board through which the programme will be considered:

Postgraduate Programmes Examination Board

Relevant QAA Subject Benchmark Groups:

Physician Assistant Competence and Curriculum Framework

Programme specification:

By training Physician Associates, we help to address local workforce needs in our partner Trusts and General Practice which is likely to result in good employment prospects for graduates since current evidence suggests that Physician Associates gain employment immediately following completion of their national examination (taken after completion of the University PG Diploma but which they are prepared for through their studies).

The course aims to equip Physician Associates with the skills to support doctors in a supervised service at Foundation Doctor level (except prescribing) and fill vacancies in General Practice and in secondary care departments. Once qualified, and unlike Foundation Doctors, research has shown that they stay in post, on average for 5 years, and thus provide stability to the workforce

Reduced GP and specialty trainee recruitment in this region leaves capacity for PA learners within the training practices of Yorkshire, and, since there are currently no other local educational providers, an opportunity for pan-Yorkshire secondary care placements.

The new programme will be delivered using a blended learning approach. The teaching methods will be a mix of didactic delivery and interactive tuition; e learning will be by virtue of access to a comprehensive array of online resources. Self and continual-assessment (under supervision) is a key element of the programme. A balanced blend of in-house lectures, tutorials, use of on line materials, skills sessions and seminars will facilitate deeper learning and allow for a range of student learning preferences.

Distinctiveness is demonstrated through our educational philosophy, core values, and innovative delivery and assessment of the curriculum:
o Engaging students through an emphasis on clinical context of teaching combined with early exposure to cadaveric anatomy, innovative use of new technologies to enhance learning, and close support from personal and academic tutors.
o Co-production of teaching and assessment that is augmented through innovative use of Technology Enhanced Learning resources and personal handheld devices in practice locations
o Stimulating student enquiry through the development of independent learning and research skills throughout the course.
o Equipping graduates for clinical practice as professionals and practitioners, with early clinical exposure.

Year1 - View timetable

[Learning Outcomes, Transferable (Key) Skills, Assessment]

Postgraduate Certificate in Clinical Studies

Compulsory modules:

Candidates will be required to study the following compulsory modules:

MEDS 5101M: Foundations of Clinical Practice for Physician Associates 1

MEDS5100M: Classroom to Clinic 1

Year2 - View timetable

[Learning Outcomes, Transferable (Key) Skills, Assessment]

Postgraduate Diploma in Physician Associate Studies

Compulsory modules:

Candidates will be required to study the following compulsory modules:

MEDS 5121M: Foundations of Clinical Practice for Physician Associates 2

MEDS 5120M: Classroom to Clinic 2

Last updated: 01/11/2016

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