Student Handbook
A Policy and Procedure Manual
Spring 2023
(updated 9.15.2023)
Table of Contents
WELCOME ............................................................................................................................. 1
PROGRAM POLICIES .............................................................................................................. 2
ABOUT MARSHALL UNIVERSITY ............................................................................................. 2
MARSHALL UNIVERSITY ACCREDITATION ............................................................................... 2
MARSHALL UNIVERSITY MISSION STATEMENT ....................................................................... 2
JOAN C. EDWARDS SCHOOL OF MEDICINE MISSION STATEMENT ........................................... 3
MARSHALL UNIVERSITY PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT PROGRAM MISSION STATEMENT .................. 3
PROGRAM LOCATION ............................................................................................................ 4
PROGRAM ORGANIZATIONAL CHART .................................................................................... 5
PA PROGRAM FACULTY AND STAFF ....................................................................................... 6
PROGRAM GOALS .................................................................................................................. 7
PROGRAM COMPETENCIES .................................................................................................... 8
Patient-Centered Practice Knowledge ...................................................................................................... 8
Society and Population Health .................................................................................................................. 9
Health Literacy and Communication ...................................................................................................... 10
Interprofessional Collaborative Practice and Leadership ....................................................................... 11
Professional and Legal Aspects of Health Care ....................................................................................... 12
Health Care and Finance Systems ........................................................................................................... 13
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION .................................................................................................. 14
MARSHALL UNIVERSITY PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT PROGRAM ACCREDITATION ........................ 15
PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS ..................................................................................................... 16
Important Dates ...................................................................................................................................... 16
Admission ................................................................................................................................................ 16
Rolling Admission .................................................................................................................................... 17
Application Deadline – October 1, 2023 ................................................................................................. 17
Prerequisites ........................................................................................................................................... 17
Admission Process .................................................................................................................................. 20
ADVANCED PLACEMENT ...................................................................................................... 21
CREDIT BY EXAMINATION .................................................................................................... 21
PART TIME STATUS .............................................................................................................. 21
TRANSFER OF CREDIT .......................................................................................................... 21
TRANSFER STUDENTS .......................................................................................................... 21
TECHNICAL STANDARDS ...................................................................................................... 22
GENERAL MUPA PROGRAM INFORMATION ......................................................................... 25
COURSE REGISTRATION ....................................................................................................... 25
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 1 - DISMISSAL AND APPEAL POLICIES ..................................... 26
I. Definitions ......................................................................................................................................... 26
II. Academic and Professionalism Violations, Excluding Grade Appeals ............................................ 27
Section 1 - Academic Progression ....................................................................................................... 27
Section 2 - Academic Dishonesty ........................................................................................................ 27
Section 3 - Professional Integrity ........................................................................................................ 28
III. Sanctions for Academic and Professionalism Violations ................................................................ 28
Section 1 - Probation ........................................................................................................................... 28
Section 2 - Dismissal ............................................................................................................................ 29
Section 3 - Deceleration ...................................................................................................................... 29
Section 4 - Remediation ...................................................................................................................... 29
IV. Academic Grade Appeal Process ...................................................................................................... 30
V. Appeal of an Academic Action Based on An Academic or Professional Integrity Issue ................ 31
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 2 - SCREENING ...................................................................... 33
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 3 - IMMUNIZATION POLICY ................................................... 33
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 4 - HEALTH CARE PROVIDER POLICY ...................................... 33
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 5 – BACKGROUND CHECK ...................................................... 34
Drug Screening ........................................................................................................................................ 34
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 6 - ILLICIT DRUG AND ALCOHOL SCREENING POLICY............... 34
Requirement for Testing ......................................................................................................................... 35
Drug Testing ............................................................................................................................................ 35
Prohibited Behavior ................................................................................................................................ 35
Procedures upon a Positive Result ......................................................................................................... 35
Additional Consequences ....................................................................................................................... 36
Student Professional Responsibility ........................................................................................................ 37
Assistance................................................................................................................................................ 38
Confidentiality in Regard to Illicit Drug and Alcohol Screening Policy .................................................... 38
PREVENTION OF EXPOSURE TO INFECTIOUS AND ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS ..................... 38
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 7 - POST-EXPOSURE POLICY FOR MANAGEMENT OF BLOOD
AND BODY FLUID EXPOSURE ................................................................................................ 39
I. DEFINITIONS ....................................................................................................................................... 40
II. SCOPE OF IMPLEMENTATION ........................................................................................................... 41
MUPA POLICY NO. 8 - POLICY FOR EXPOSURE TO INFECTIOUS AND ENVIRONMENTAL
HAZARDS............................................................................................................................. 42
III. PROCEDURE ....................................................................................................................................... 42
STEP 1: Immediate Treatment ................................................................................................................ 42
Non-intact Skin Exposure ........................................................................................................................ 42
Mucous Membrane Exposure ................................................................................................................. 42
Intact Skin Exposure ................................................................................................................................ 42
STEP 2: Exposure Protocol ...................................................................................................................... 43
STEP 3: SOURCE PATIENT ....................................................................................................................... 44
IV. DOCUMENTATION ........................................................................................................................... 45
V. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ............................................................................................................. 45
For Physician Assistant Students: Financial Concerns Associated with an Exposure ............................. 45
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 9 - STUDENT EMPLOYMENT POLICY ....................................... 45
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 10 - SALUTATIONS POLICY ..................................................... 45
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 11 – PROFESSIONAL INTEGRITY/CONDUCT (PROFESSIONALISM)
........................................................................................................................................... 46
CLASSROOM ETIQUETTE ...................................................................................................... 48
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 12 - SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY .................................................... 48
Example 1 ................................................................................................................................................ 48
Example 2 ................................................................................................................................................ 48
Example 3 ................................................................................................................................................ 49
ACADEMIC AND INTELLECTUAL HONESTY ............................................................................ 50
ATTENDANCE ...................................................................................................................... 51
TARDINESS .......................................................................................................................... 51
ABSENCE ............................................................................................................................. 51
EXCUSED ABSENCE .............................................................................................................. 51
UNEXCUSED ABSENCE ......................................................................................................... 51
UNPLANNED ABSENCE ......................................................................................................... 51
PLANNED ABSENCE/TIME AWAY REQUEST .......................................................................... 52
LEAVE OF ABSENCE .............................................................................................................. 52
ONCE A LEAVE OF ABSENCE IS GRANTED .............................................................................. 52
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 13 - DECELERATION POLICY ................................................... 53
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 14 - MILITARY POLICY............................................................ 53
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 15 - WITHDRAWAL POLICY .................................................... 53
WITHDRAWING FROM MARSHALL UNIVERSITY – REFUNDS OF TUITION AND FEES ............... 54
SUPERVISED CLINICAL PRACTICE EXPERIENCES (SCPE) CALENDAR SPRING 2023 – SPRING 2024
........................................................................................................................................... 56
Holidays and Vacation Spring 2023 – Spring 2024 ................................................................................. 56
TUITION AND FEES 2022-2023 .............................................................................................. 57
FINANCIAL AID AND SCHOLARSHIPS .................................................................................... 59
Scholarship Opportunities ...................................................................................................................... 59
SECURITY............................................................................................................................. 60
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 16 - SAFETY POLICY ............................................................... 60
Self-Defense Training .............................................................................................................................. 61
HELP Phones ........................................................................................................................................... 61
Safety Report .......................................................................................................................................... 61
PROGRAM OFFICE HOURS ................................................................................................... 61
CLASSROOM HOURS ............................................................................................................ 62
FACULTY OFFICE HOURS ...................................................................................................... 62
DISABILITY SERVICES ........................................................................................................... 62
PA CURRICULUM SEQUENCE ................................................................................................ 63
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS........................................................................................................ 64
First Semester – Spring 2023 .............................................................................................................. 64
Second Semester – Summer 2023 ..................................................................................................... 64
Third Semester – Fall 2023 ................................................................................................................. 65
Fourth Semester – Spring 2024 .......................................................................................................... 66
Clinical Year – Summer 2024 .............................................................................................................. 67
COMMUNICATION WITH THE PA PROGRAM ........................................................................ 67
TEACHING OUT RESPONSIBILITIES ........................................................................................ 67
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 17 - REMEDIATION POLICY .................................................... 68
Supervised Clinical Practice Experience (SCPE) (effective at the conclusion of 22-23 SCPEs) .............. 69
ACADEMIC STANDARDS IN THE MARSHALL UNIVERSITY PA PROGRAM ................................ 70
PROGRESSION STANDARDS ................................................................................................. 70
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................ 70
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 26 – DEGREE COMPLETION .................................................... 70
COMMUNITY SERVICE ......................................................................................................... 70
GRADING SCALE .................................................................................................................. 71
ADVANCED ACADEMIC STANDING ....................................................................................... 71
ACADEMIC ADVISING .......................................................................................................... 71
RECORDING OF LECTURES .................................................................................................... 71
CLINICAL ROTATION ASSIGNMENTS ..................................................................................... 71
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 18 – CLINICAL ROTATION SITES.............................................. 71
Incidents in the Clinical Setting ............................................................................................................... 71
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 19 - INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY ........................................ 72
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 20 - DRESS CODE POLICY ....................................................... 73
Introduction ............................................................................................................................................ 73
Purpose ................................................................................................................................................... 73
Review of Policy and Procedure ............................................................................................................. 73
Identification ........................................................................................................................................... 73
Personal Hygiene .................................................................................................................................... 73
Hair Maintenance ................................................................................................................................... 73
Cosmetics ................................................................................................................................................ 73
Jewelry and Accessories .......................................................................................................................... 73
Tattoos .................................................................................................................................................... 73
Attire ....................................................................................................................................................... 74
Laboratory Attire ..................................................................................................................................... 74
Items not Permitted ................................................................................................................................ 74
Appropriate Attire Standards in the Context of Patient Care and Public Interactions ........................... 75
Attire for Community Service Participation ............................................................................................ 75
Disciplinary Action .................................................................................................................................. 75
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 21 – RESOURCES FOR STUDENTS WITH PERSONAL CONCERNS 76
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 22 - DISCRIMINATION OR HARASSMENT OF STUDENTS ......... 76
GRIEVANCES, COMPLAINTS AND STUDENT APPEALS (NOT GRADE APPEALS) ........................ 77
EMERGENCY COMMUNICATION .......................................................................................... 77
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 24 - EXAMINATION POLICIES AND PROCEDURES .................... 78
Taking Exams ........................................................................................................................................... 78
Missed Exams .......................................................................................................................................... 78
Late Arrival to Exams .............................................................................................................................. 79
Exam Integrity ......................................................................................................................................... 79
Academic Appeal Process ....................................................................................................................... 79
EVALUATION OF STUDENT PERFORMANCE .......................................................................... 79
MARSHALL UNIVERSITY MEDICAL LIABILITY INSURANCE ...................................................... 79
STUDENT RECORDS.............................................................................................................. 80
ACCESS TO STUDENT RECORDS ............................................................................................ 80
Directory Information ............................................................................................................................. 80
STUDENT STUDY SPACE ....................................................................................................... 81
GRADUATE STUDENT SOCIETY ............................................................................................. 81
WV ASSOCIATION OF PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS (WVAPA) ....................................................... 81
AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS (AAPA) .................................................... 81
HIPAA TRAINING ................................................................................................................. 81
BLOOD BORNE PATHOGEN TRAINING .................................................................................. 81
BASIC CARDIAC LIFE SUPPORT ............................................................................................. 81
ADVANCED CARDIAC LIFE SUPPORT ..................................................................................... 82
ELECTRONIC DEVICES IN CLASS ............................................................................................ 82
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 25 - HEALTH INSURANCE POLICY FOR PA STUDENTS .............. 82
CAREER PLANNING .............................................................................................................. 82
MARSHALL UNIVERSITY PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT (MUPA) STUDENT
HANDBOOK RECEIPT AND
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM ................................................................................................. A
ILLICIT DRUG AND ALCOHOL SCREENING POLICY RECEIPT AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM .. B
PLANNED ABSENCE/TIME AWAY REQUEST FORM .................................................................. C
AUTHORIZATION FOR RELEASE OF INFORMATION FOR PROMOTIONAL PURPOSES ................ D
MUPA PROGRAM POLICY NO. 23 – STUDENT GRIEVANCES AND ALLEGATIONS OF
HARASSMENT ........................................................................................................................ E
Title IX Complaints .................................................................................................................................... S
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Welcome
The faculty and staff of the physician assistant program at Marshall University
welcome you to your journey to become a physician assistant. This endeavor will
lead you on a path to pursue your education and a successful career as a physician
assistant (PA). Your time in the PA program will be a dedicated time in an intense
curricula. While we realize the work will be demanding, the rewards will be many.
As a student, you will work hard to achieve the competencies to be a successful
physician assistant. We are committed to your success and will guide you as you
take the next steps leading to a rewarding, professional career.
The Marshall University Physician Assistant Program has developed this student handbook to help
augment your journey, answer questions as you matriculate into the program, and provide details that
are unique to the Marshall University PA Program.
As a PA student at Marshall University, you are responsible for reading this handbook and adhering to
the policies continued herein, as well as the policies of Marshall University. All policies in this handbook
apply to all students, principal faculty, staff, Program Director, and Medical Director.
On behalf of the Marshall University PA Program faculty and staff, I welcome you to your next journey.
Respectfully,
Ginger R. Boles, MS, PA-C
Program Director
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Program Policies
Students enrolled in the Marshall University PA Program are subject to all policies contained in this
handbook. Program policies apply to all students, principal faculty, staff, Program Director, and Medical
Director. Students are informed of program policies and practices by means of this manual. Review will
occur at orientation. Any updates will be provided to students in writing.
About Marshall University
Marshall University is a public historic university located in downtown Huntington, W.Va.
For information regarding the history of the University, please access the main Marshall University
website at http://www.marshall.edu/history-and-traditions/.
The physician assistant program is housed within the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine (School of
Medicine) and is proud of its collaboration within the School of Medicine. Established in 1977, the
School of Medicine is a state-supported, community-based medical school. Its faculty and administration
are committed to providing high-quality medical education and graduate training to meet changing
health care needs. We promote an inclusive environment by attracting, recruiting and retaining
individuals who represent varying backgrounds and perspectives.
Marshall University Accreditation
Marshall University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Marshall University is accredited as an institution of higher learning by The Higher Learning Commission.
The Higher Learning Commission can be reached at 30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400, Chicago, IL
60602; toll-free 1-800-621-7440; (https://www.hlcommission.org/).
Marshall University in its entirety is accredited by HLC, and all of the University’s programs are
covered by the HLC accreditation.
Marshall University Mission Statement
Revised and Adopted April 25, 2019 Board of Governors (BOG) meeting.
Marshall University is a public comprehensive university with a rich history as one of the oldest
institutions of higher learning in West Virginia. Founded in 1837 and named after Chief Justice John
Marshall, definer of the Constitution, Marshall University advances the public good through innovative
accredited education programs. Marshall University’s mission, inspired by our Vision and Creed, includes
a commitment to:
• Offer a wide range of high quality, affordable, and accessible undergraduate, graduate,
and professional education that prepares students to think, learn, work and live in an
evolving global society.
• Create opportunities and experiences to foster understanding and appreciation of the
rich diversity of thought and culture.
• Maintain a dynamic intellectual, artistic, and cultural life by promoting and supporting
research and creative activities by undergraduates, graduates, and faculty.
• Contribute to the quality of life of the community, region, and beyond through applied
research, economic development, health care and cultural enrichment.
• Cultivate the development of an inclusive, just and equitable community.
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Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine Mission Statement
The Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall University is a community-based, Veterans Affairs
affiliated medical school dedicated to providing high-quality medical education and postgraduate
training programs to foster a skilled physician workforce to meet the unique healthcare needs of West
Virginia and Central Appalachia. Building upon its medical education foundation, the school seeks to
develop centers of excellence in clinical care, including primary care in rural underserved areas, focused
and responsive programs of biomedical science graduate study, biomedical and clinical science research,
academic scholarship and public service outreach. The School is committed to fulfilling its mission by
creating a diverse and inclusive academic community that is sustained in a collegial and nurturing
environment of lifelong learning.
Marshall University Physician Assistant Program Mission Statement
Revised and Adopted June 27, 2019
The Marshall University Physician Assistant Program is dedicated to providing high-quality medical
education to develop a competent physician assistant workforce to meet needs in primary and specialty
care. Graduates of our program will contribute to the quality of life in their communities and regions
through excellent health care. Building upon this foundation, we strive to fulfill the need for care in rural
underserved areas and to engage our physician assistants in lifelong learning in an academic community
that promotes diversity.
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Program Location
Robert W. Coon Education Building
1542 Spring Valley Drive
Huntington, WV 25704
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 5 of 108
Program Organizational Chart
NOTE:
• Principal Faculty are defined as faculty working at least 50% FTE with primary academic
responsibility assigned to the PA program who report to the Program Director.
• Instructional Faculty are defined as individuals providing instruction or supervision during the
didactic and/or clinical phases of the program, regardless of length of time of instruction, faculty
status or rank.
Bobby Miller, MD
Vice Dean of JCESOM
Marshall University
Ginger Boles, MS, PA-C
PA Program Director
Kimberly Brooks
Administrative Assistant
Lorie Yakubik Wallace
Administrative Assistant
Diana R. Maue
Program Manager
Stephen Wilson, MD
Medical Director
Misty Arrington, DMSc, PA-C
Principal Faculty
Director of Clinical Education
Preceptors
Benjamin Spurlock, MS, PA-C
Principal Faculty
Director of Didactic Education
Instructional Faculty
KV Chin, PhD
Principal Faculty
Jessica Dearman, MS, PA-C
Principal Faculty
Katharine Lee, MS, PA-C
Principal Faculty
Jay Legg
Information Technology
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PA Program Faculty and Staff
Misty Arrington, DMSc, PA-C
Director of Clinical Education
Principal Faculty | Clinical Skills Director | Assistant Professor
[email protected] |304-691-6966
Ginger Boles, MS, PA-C
Program Director
[email protected] | 304-691-1979
Kimberly Brooks
Administrative Assistant
hudson2@marshall.edu | 304-696-6035
KV Chin, PhD
Principal Faculty | Professor
[email protected] | 304-696-6750
Jessica Dearman, MS, PA-C
Principal Faculty | Assistant Professor
[email protected] | 304-733-7798
Katharine Lee, MS, PA-C
Principal Faculty | Assistant Professor
[email protected] | 304-696-7031
Diana R. Maue
Program Manager
[email protected] | 304-691-6434
Benjamin Spurlock, MS, PA-C
Director of Didactic Education
Principal Faculty | Assistant Professor
[email protected] | 304-696-5128
Stephen L. Wilson, MD, DABS, MBA, FACS
Medical Director
[email protected] | 304-691-1200
Lorie Yakubik Wallace
Administrative Assistant
[email protected] | 304-733-7856
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 7 of 108
Program Goals
1. To utilize an application process that selects quality students
2. To train physician assistants to work in interprofessional teams and to practice medicine with
professionalism
3. For students to achieve a pass rate on the National Commission on Certification of Physician
Assistants exam at or above the national average
4. 100% of Marshall University physician assistant graduates will have the knowledge, skills, and
competencies to be employed in primary care or specialty care within six months of graduation
5. 20% of Marshall University physician assistant graduates will have the knowledge, skills, and
competencies to be employed in a rural underserved area
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Program Competencies
In aligning with the physician assistant program goals, the Marshall University PA (MUPA) Program has
developed the following competencies that each student of the PA program must achieve prior to
graduation. Within each of these six building block competencies, there are two additional competency
domains: cultural humility and self-assessment and ongoing professional development. These
competencies and additional competency domains drive the curriculum for the Marshall University
Physician Assistant Program.
Patient-Centered Practice Knowledge
Graduates will demonstrate medical knowledge, which includes an understanding of pathophysiology,
patient presentation, differential diagnosis, patient management, surgical principles, health promotion
and disease prevention. Physician assistant graduates will demonstrate core knowledge that will enable
them to apply evolving biomedical and clinical sciences to patient practice. In addition, graduates are
expected to demonstrate an investigatory and analytic thinking approach to clinical situations.
Graduates are expected to:
• Perform a history and physical examination and assimilate information from that examination to
order appropriate diagnostic and laboratory testing, interpret the testing results, and formulate
an appropriate differential diagnosis.
• Use a patient-centered approach to develop a relationship with patients, their families, and/or
their caregivers to partner with them in treating acute and chronic conditions.
• Manage general medical and surgical conditions to include understanding the indications,
contraindications, side effects, interactions and adverse reactions of pharmacologic agents and
other relevant treatment modalities.
• Differentiate between normal and abnormal findings in anatomic, physiological, laboratory and
radiologic and other diagnostic data results.
Patient-Centered Practice
Knowledge Competency Domain
Graduates Are Expected to:
Cultural Humility
• Have an awareness of their own personal and professional
beliefs, biases, attitudes and actions that affect patient care.
• Be aware and respectful of cultural differences of others.
•
Have a commitment to ongoing professional development.
Self-Assessment and Ongoing
Professional Development
• Have an awareness of personal and professional limitations.
• Develop plans to address gaps in knowledge.
• Use evidence-based medicine to effectively treat patients and
understand commitment for ongoing use of ever evolving
evidence-based medicine.
• Self-reflect.
• Participate in quality improvement activities and know why they
are important.
• Use discipline, reflection and self-control to develop a process
for determining their level of understanding systems and
strategies to address patient health care needs.
• Self-evaluate and commit to career-long knowledge acquisition.
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Society and Population Health
Graduates will understand how the health of individuals can be affected by and contribute to the health
of a larger community. Graduates will understand how civic responsibility, patient advocacy, service to
the community, diversity of the workforce, and improving the health of underserved populations factor
into patient care.
Graduates are expected to:
• Understand and apply fundamental principles of epidemiology.
• Work effectively with physicians and other health care professionals in a team approach to
sustain and improve community health in diverse populations.
• Recognize the cultural norms, needs, influences and socioeconomic, environmental and other
population-level determinants affecting the health of the individual and the community being
served.
• Recognize the potential impacts of the community, biology and genetics in the population and
patients, and incorporate them into decisions of care.
• Demonstrate accountability and responsibility to removing barriers to health.
Society and Population Health
Competency Domain
Graduates Are Expected to:
Cultural Humility
• Have an awareness of their own personal and professional
beliefs, biases, attitudes and actions that affect patient care.
• Be aware and respectful of cultural differences of others.
•
Have a commitment to ongoing professional development.
Self-Assessment and Ongoing
Professional Development
• Have an awareness of personal and professional limitations.
• Develop plans to address gaps in knowledge.
• Use evidence-based medicine to effectively treat patients and
understand commitment for ongoing use of ever evolving
evidence-based medicine.
• Self-reflect.
• Participate in quality improvement activities and know why they
are important.
• Use discipline, reflection and self-control to develop a process
for determining their level of understanding systems and
strategies to address patient health care needs.
•
Self-evaluate and commit to career-long knowledge acquisition.
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Health Literacy and Communication
Graduates will understand the importance of collaboration between the patient and the provider and
will encourage them to take an active role in their own health. PA program graduates will also use a
variety of techniques to determine the patient’s capacities for understanding their health and the
systems that serve them. New graduates must display emotional maturity and be able to determine the
best way of communicating with patients.
Graduates are expected to:
• Use effective communication skills to elicit and provide information.
• Recognize and interpret verbal and non-verbal cues.
• Interpret and convey information to patients so that the patient understands and can apply
learned knowledge to their own health care.
• Provide effective, equitable, understandable, and respectful quality care and services that are
responsive to diverse cultural health beliefs and practices, preferred languages, health literacy
and other communication needs.
• Organize and communicate information with patients, families, community members, and
health care team members in a form that is understandable while avoiding discipline-specific
terminology when possible and checking to ensure understanding.
• Use appropriate literature to make evidence-based decisions for patient care.
Health Literacy and
Communication Competency
Domain
Graduates Are Expected to:
Cultural Humility
• Have an awareness of their own personal and professional
beliefs, biases, attitudes and actions that affect patient care.
• Be aware and respectful of cultural differences of others.
• Have a commitment to ongoing professional development.
Self-Assessment and Ongoing
Professional Development
• Have an awareness of personal and professional limitations.
• Develop plans to address gaps in knowledge.
• Use evidence-based medicine to effectively treat patients and
understand commitment for ongoing use of ever evolving
evidence-based medicine.
• Self-reflect.
• Participate in quality improvement activities and know why they
are important.
• Use discipline, reflection and self-control to develop a process
for determining their level of understanding systems and
strategies to address patient health care needs.
•
Self-evaluate and commit to career-long knowledge acquisition.
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Interprofessional Collaborative Practice and Leadership
Graduates will have a firm grasp of the roles and responsibilities of physician assistants and team
members and will demonstrate the ability to work effectively in a team-based approach to assure the
goals of the patient remain the focus. Graduates of the PA program will be prepared to assume a
leadership role on a health care team and will be able to contribute to quality patient care by working
with other health care professionals. Knowing when to lead and when to follow is essential in health
care and demonstrates the graduate’s ability to value the needs of the patient over themselves.
Graduates are expected to:
• Work effectively with physicians and other health care professionals as a member or leader of a
health care team or other professional group.
• Articulate the PA’s role and responsibility to patients, families, communities and other
professionals.
• Assure patients they are being heard and that their needs are the focus of care.
• Recognize when referrals are needed and arrange for appropriate consultations.
• Engage diverse professionals who complement one’s own professional expertise, as well as
associated resources to develop strategies to meet specific health care needs of patients and
populations.
• Describe how professionals in health care and other fields can collaborate and integrate clinical
care and public health interventions to optimize population health.
Interprofessional Collaborative
Practice and Leadership
Competency Domain
Graduates Are Expected to:
Cultural Humility
• Have an awareness of their own personal and professional
beliefs, biases, attitudes and actions that affect patient care.
• Be aware and respectful of cultural differences of others.
•
Have a commitment to ongoing professional development.
Self-Assessment and Ongoing
Professional Development
• Have an awareness of personal and professional limitations.
• Develop plans to address gaps in knowledge.
• Use evidence-based medicine to effectively treat patients and
understand commitment for ongoing use of ever evolving
evidence-based medicine.
• Self-reflect.
• Participate in quality improvement activities and know why they
are important.
• Use discipline, reflection and self-control to develop a process for
determining their level of understanding systems and strategies
to address patient health care needs.
• Self-evaluate and commit to career-long knowledge acquisition.
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Professional and Legal Aspects of Health Care
Graduates will demonstrate ethical and legally appropriate ways to care for patients. Competent PA
graduates will be able to articulate and adhere to current standards of care and will possess knowledge
of the laws and regulations that govern the delivery of health care in the United States. Graduates will
be able to display professional maturity and use self-assessment and metacognitive skills. Graduates will
display compassion and exercise humility consistently even in high stress, ambiguous and uncomfortable
situations.
Graduates are expected to:
• Accurately and adequately document information regarding care for legal and quality purposes.
• Recognize their limits and establish healthy boundaries to support healthy partnerships.
• Participate in difficult conversations with patients and colleagues.
• Articulate the standard of care for practice of medicine.
• Exhibit an understanding of the regulatory environment, accountability to the patients, society
and profession, and to be responsive to needs of the patient that supersede self-interest.
Professional and Legal Aspects of
Health Care
Competency Domain
Graduates Are Expected to:
Cultural Humility
• Have an awareness of their own personal and professional
beliefs, biases, attitudes and actions that affect patient care.
• Be aware and respectful of cultural differences of others.
•
Have a commitment to ongoing professional development.
Self-Assessment and Ongoing
Professional Development
• Have an awareness of personal and professional limitations.
• Develop plans to address gaps in knowledge.
• Use evidence-based medicine to effectively treat patients and
understand commitment for ongoing use of ever evolving
evidence-based medicine.
• Self-reflect.
• Participate in quality improvement activities and know why they
are important.
• Use discipline, reflection and self-control to develop a process for
determining their level of understanding systems and strategies
to address patient health care needs.
• Self-evaluate and commit to career-long knowledge acquisition.
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Health Care and Finance Systems
Graduates will demonstrate the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the health care system and
deliver high-quality, patient-centered care while being cost effective and mindful of the patient’s
financial situation. Graduates will understand how their productivity in a health care organization can
affect the finance of their organization. Graduates will understand how patient outcomes are affected
by a patient’s access to care and identify possible barriers to health care.
Graduates are expected to:
• Recognize financial implications to the provision of health care.
• Understand different payor systems in health care, including Medicare and Medicaid, and how
this affects practice effectiveness.
• Understand the working PA/physician relationship.
• Identify and participate in quality improvement endeavors to improve patient care.
Health Care and Finance Systems
Competency Domain
Graduates Are Expected to:
Cultural Humility
• Have an awareness of their own personal and professional
beliefs, biases, attitudes and actions that affect patient care.
• Be aware and respectful of cultural differences of others.
•
Have a commitment to ongoing professional development.
Self-Assessment and Ongoing
Professional Development
• Have an awareness of personal and professional limitations.
• Develop plans to address gaps in knowledge.
• Use evidence-based medicine to effectively treat patients and
understand commitment for ongoing use of ever evolving
evidence-based medicine.
• Self-reflect.
• Participate in quality improvement activities and know why they
are important.
• Use discipline, reflection and self-control to develop a process for
determining their level of understanding systems and strategies
to address patient health care needs.
•
Self-evaluate and commit to career-long knowledge acquisition.
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Diversity and Inclusion
The Marshall University Physician Assistant Program shares the commitment of Marshall University and
the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine to devise strategies and oversee initiatives that will shape
worldviews and foster a mindset open to different perspectives, new ideas and innovative solutions. We
will work to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where differences are respected and valued.
Diversity is understanding that each individual is unique and also recognizing our differences. The
differences can be race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, age, physical
abilities, religious beliefs, political beliefs, and other ideologies.
Everyone has a vital role and an important stake in diversity work, whether it is working together to
eliminate health disparities or self-educating to become more culturally competent. We will continue to
collaborate within and across different communities to reduce inequalities and to create an
environment that will facilitate the academic achievement of racial and ethnic populations that are
underrepresented in the PA profession.
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Marshall University Physician Assistant Program Accreditation
The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) is the
accrediting agency that protects the interests of the public and PA profession by defining the standards
for PA education and evaluating PA educational programs within the territorial United States to ensure
their compliance with those standards.
The ARC-PA is an independent accrediting body authorized to accredit qualified PA educational
programs leading to the professional credential, Physician Assistant (PA). Accreditation is a process of
quality assurance that determines whether the program meets established standards for function,
structure and performance. The ARC-PA does not accredit any academic degree awarded by the
sponsoring institution of the PA program.
The ARC-PA encourages excellence in PA education through its accreditation process by establishing and
maintaining standards of quality for educational programs. It awards accreditation to programs through
a peer review process that includes documentation and periodic site visit evaluation to substantiate
compliance with the Accreditation Standards for Physician Assistant Education. The accreditation
process is designed to encourage sound educational practices and innovation by programs and to
stimulate continuous self-study and improvement.
In addition to establishing educational standards and fostering excellence in PA programs, the ARC-PA
provides information and guidance to individuals and organizations regarding PA program accreditation.
The American Academy of Family Physicians, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American
Academy of Physician Assistants, the American College of Physicians, the American College of Surgeons,
the American Medical Association, and the Physician Assistant Education Association (formerly the
Association of Physician Assistant Programs) all cooperate with the ARC-PA as collaborating
organizations to establish, maintain, and promote appropriate standards of quality for entry level
education of physician assistants (PAs) and to provide recognition for education programs that meet the
minimum requirements outlined in these Standards. These Standards are to be used for the
development, evaluation, and self-analysis of physician assistant programs. The ARC-PA is recognized by
the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). The CHEA scope of recognition is for programs
preparing individuals for entry into PA practice located in institutions in the US that are accredited by
recognized regional accrediting bodies.
The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) has
granted Accreditation-Provisional status to the Marshall University Physician Assistant Program
sponsored by Marshall University.
Accreditation-Provisional is an accreditation status granted when the plans and resource allocation, if
fully implemented as planned, of a proposed program that has not yet enrolled students appear to
demonstrate the program’s ability to meet the ARC-PA Standards or when a program holding
Accreditation-Provisional status appears to demonstrate continued progress in complying with
the Standards as it prepares for the graduation of the first class (cohort) of students.
Accreditation-Provisional does not ensure any subsequent accreditation status. It is limited to no more
than five years from matriculation of the first class.
The program’s accreditation history can be viewed on the ARC-PA website at http://www.arc-
pa.org/accreditation-history-marshall-university/.
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Prospective Students
Physician assistants (PAs) are vital members of a patient’s health care team and are in demand nationwide.
In response to this national demand for physician assistants (PAs), the Joan C. Edwards School of
Medicine has developed a physician assistant program with 28 months of rigorous academic courses
and challenging clinical rotations as set forth for Provisional Accreditation, per ARC-PA. Physician
assistants are in high demand because they are integrated into all health care disciplines and settings,
are cost-effective for the health care industry, and because of the shortage of physicians. In fact,
according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of PAs is expected to grow 37 percent between
2016 and 2026.
Marshall University’s PA graduates will earn a Master of Medical Science Physician Assistant degree
(MMS PA), and will be prepared to evaluate, diagnose, and manage patients in primary and specialty
care across all stages of life as well as patients in culturally diverse and rural settings. Additionally, the
program will provide its students with the competencies and skills to support lifelong learning, to apply
evidence-based medicine in practice, and to work in interprofessional teams. When this team approach
of health care professionals is used, a wider range of services can be offered, and more patients will
benefit at the regional, state, and national levels.
Important Dates
April 2023 – CASPA cycle opens
May 2023 – First test date for Casper assessment
June 2023 – Interviews with completion of supplemental application, Casper examination, and Technical
Standards
September 1, 2023 – Special application deadline for Marshall University graduates
October 1, 2023 – Deadline for application to be verified by CASPA
Within 30 days of interview – Admission offers disseminated to applicants
January 2-5, 2024 – Orientation week (students are required to attend)
January 8, 2024 – First day of class
Admission
The Physician Assistant program at Marshall University is a non-thesis, 28-month graduate-level program
awarding the Master of Medical Science Physician Assistant (MMS PA) degree upon completion.
Applicants will be evaluated using the applicant’s academic record, recommendations, entrance exam,
Casper assessment, essay, and interview. Consistent with our mission, applicants who are West Virginia
residents will be given additional points in the admission rubric. Applicants who have obtained or will
obtain by matriculation, an undergraduate degree from Marshall University and who meet the minimum
admission requirements will be offered an interview.
Marshall University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, age,
physical or mental disability, marital or family status, pregnancy, veteran status, service in the
uniformed services (as defined in state and federal law), religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, genetic
information, gender identity, or gender expression in the administration of any of its educational
programs, activities, or with respect to admission or employment.
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Rolling Admission
Admission is selective and operates on a rolling admission cycle. Therefore, it will benefit applicants to
complete their applications early. Applications verified prior to the October 1 deadline will be reviewed
on a rolling basis. Applications that are not verified by Marshall’s Physician Assistant Program admission
deadline will NOT be considered.
Application Deadline – October 1, 2023
Applicants who wish to join the cohort in January 2024 must have their CASPA application verified by
October 1, 2023.
Prerequisites
Baccalaureate degree from an accepted accredited U.S. institution; no specific major is required so long
as prerequisites are successfully completed.
Required minimum overall GPA of 3.0 (4.0 scale), as calculated by CASPA
Required minimum prerequisite coursework GPA of 3.0 (4.0 scale), as calculated by Marshall
University’s PA Program
Required minimum science GPA of 3.0 (4.0 scale), as calculated by CASPA
Prerequisite coursework. All prerequisite coursework should have been taken within the last 10 years.
No Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or College Level Examination Program
(CLEP) coursework will be accepted in lieu of taking the courses themselves. All courses must be taken
for a letter grade and be passed at the C or better level; a C minus is not acceptable. Applicants who are
currently enrolled in required undergraduate prerequisite courses, or obtaining their bachelor’s
degree, may apply for preliminary admission. Once all required courses are successfully completed, prior
to the designated start term of the application and as evidenced by an official transcript from the
sending institution, those applicants may be regularly admitted to the program.
The credit hours (cr) of the following prerequisites are considered equivalent to semester hours. Please
take this into consideration if you are taking courses using a different system.
General Chemistry with associated lab
8 cr
Statistics
3 cr
Human Anatomy with lab
4 cr
Human Physiology
3 cr
Organic Chemistry I with lab – 4 cr (or Biochemistry – 3 cr)
4 cr OR 3 cr
Microbiology with lab
3 cr
Medical Terminology
One semester (1-3 cr)
Psychology
3 cr
College Algebra – May be replaced with college-level pre-calculus or calculus
3 cr
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Prerequisite coursework notes:
• Combined Human Anatomy and Physiology courses are accepted in lieu of separate Human
Anatomy with lab and Human Physiology courses. However, applicants must take two
semesters of Anatomy and Physiology with associated labs (totaling 8 cr).
• No Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or College Level
Examination Program (CLEP) credit will be accepted for any prerequisite courses.
• All prerequisite courses must have an assigned letter grade and not Pass/Fail or CR/NC.
• While the program encourages in-person labs, both in-person and virtual labs will be
accepted.
Recommendations. Three recommendations are required. They must be submitted through CASPA and be
from recommenders who can attest to the applicant’s abilities to succeed, such as the capacity to learn,
work ethic, and/or educational or professional goals. Recommendations should NOT be from family
members or friends.
Entrance exam – Graduate Record Exam (GRE). The MCAT may be substituted for the GRE. GRE/MCAT
scores must be less than five years old at the time of application. There is no minimum score required.
Official scores must be submitted electronically to CASPA directly from ETS using a special CASPA code. Visit
the CASPA Official GRE Scores webpage to learn how to submit your official GRE scores. Visit the CASPA
Official MCAT Scores webpage to learn how to submit your official MCAT scores.
Essay. The essay, or commonly referred to as personal statement, must be submitted through CASPA.
CASPA and supplemental application. Complete both the Central Application Service for Physician
Assistants (CASPA) application and the Marshall University PA Program’s supplemental application; this
includes the non-refundable supplemental application fee ($40 for domestic applicants and $150 for
international). The supplemental application will be completed only by applicants who are invited for and
accept an interview. Interviewees will be expected to complete and submit their supplemental application
at the time of their interview.
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Casper Exam. All applicants applying to the Marshall University Physician Assistant Program are required
to complete the Altus Suite (Casper test only) for the 2022-2023 admissions cycle.
Altus Suite is a standardized, multi-part online assessment that measures different competencies and
attributes that we believe are important for successful students and graduates of our program. Altus
Suite will complement the other tools that we use for applicant review and evaluation. In implementing
Altus Suite, we are trying to further enhance fairness and objectivity in our selection process.
Altus Suite consists of:
Casper: 100-120 minute online, open-response situational judgment test
Snapshot: 15-minute one-way video interview with standardized questions
Duet: 15-minute value-alignment assessment
You will register for Altus Suite for the Casper test U.S. Professional Health Sciences using the code
CSP-10101. Access TakeAltus.com to create an account and for more information on important dates
and requirements, and the Altus Suite assessments.
NOTE: Snapshot and Duet are not required to apply to our program.
The program strongly encourages applicants to take the exam early as there is a limited number of slots
for each day the exam is offered, and their application cannot be considered complete until the exam is
taken and scores are received. An applicant does not need to wait until their CASPA application is
completed and/or verified to take the Casper test. Since our program utilizes a rolling admissions cycle,
it is advantageous to complete your application as early as possible.
Casper exam results are only valid for a single admissions cycle and must be taken again if an applicant is
reapplying. Since there is a cost associated with Casper, if there is a financial hardship that would
otherwise prevent an applicant from taking the test, please contact the Program Director at
PA shadowing. Shadowing a current physician assistant in the field is encouraged, but not required.
Shadowing can help an applicant better understand the role of a physician assistant. If invited for an
interview, the applicant will be expected to briefly discuss the role of a physician assistant.
Basic computer skills. Skills must include the use of email and web-based and electronic searches.
Patient care experience. Not required.
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Admission Process
1. Make sure you meet the admission requirements.
2. Submit an application through the Central Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA),
which must be verified by October 1. Applications that are not verified by Marshall’s PA
program application deadline will not be reviewed for admission. Note: CASPA recommends
that applicants monitor their applications for at least four to six weeks until verification status is
achieved.
Questions regarding your application in CASPA should be directed to CASPA
(https://help.liaisonedu.com/CASPA_Applicant_Help_Center).
Marshall requires the following materials to be submitted via CASPA:
a. CASPA application and non-refundable application fee
b. Official transcripts of all institutions of higher learning attended
c. Three recommendations – CASPA only requires two, but Marshall requires three
d. Official GRE or MCAT scores
e. Essay/Personal Statement – CASPA sets a limit of characters, so be sure to follow the
guidelines
3. All applications verified by October 1 will be reviewed, and a decision will be made to reject or
offer an interview to the applicant. Decisions will be made using a rubric designed to be
objective and based on the following content:
a. Grade Point Averages (overall, prerequisite, science)
b. Recommendations
c. Essay
d. GRE or MCAT
e. Residency – WV residents will receive additional points in this rubric.
f. Applicants who have obtained, or will obtain by matriculation, an undergraduate degree
from Marshall University, who meet the minimum admission requirements, and who
have their applications submitted and verified on or by September 1
st
will be offered an
interview.
4. Applicants who are offered an interview will receive notice via email to the email address listed
on the CASPA application. Interviews will be scheduled on a rolling basis. Rejection notices will
be sent via mail to the current address listed on the CASPA application. Invited applicants will be
given an interview date, provided a Marshall University supplemental application and
questionnaire to be completed as well as a technical standards document to review and sign.
5. If any applicant would like to visit our campus, we would be glad to arrange an individual tour
utilizing Marshall University’s COVID-19 safety precautions.
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Advanced Placement
No advanced placement is granted in the program.
Credit by Examination
There is no credit by examination for courses or credit given for life experience. All students must take
all courses within the MUPA Program.
Part Time Status
There is no part time option for the MUPA Program.
Transfer of Credit
Neither transfer credit nor work-related experiences will be accepted toward the MUPA Program.
Transfer Students
The MUPA Program does not accept transfer students from other PA programs.
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Technical Standards
Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine
Physician Assistant Program Technical Standards for Admission
These technical standards for admission are set forth by the Marshall University Physician Assistant (PA)
Program to establish the expectations and requisite abilities considered essential for students admitted
to its educational and training programs. These standards are intended to achieve the levels of
competency stipulated by the PA Program, its accrediting agency (the Accreditation Review Commission
on Education for the Physician Assistant – ARC-PA), and the Higher Educational Policy Commission of the
State of West Virginia.
A practicing physician assistant must possess the physical, mental, behavioral, and social competencies
to function in a variety of clinical situations and to render a broad spectrum of patient care in multiple
and varied settings.
Accepted students must be able to perform the academic and clinical competencies to meet the full
requirements of the school’s curriculum.
The academic and clinical competencies of the school’s curriculum include the capacity to observe and
communicate and demonstrate sufficient motor ability to perform physical examinations and basic
laboratory and diagnostic procedures. Students must demonstrate emotional stability, exercise sound
judgment, work effectively in stressful situations, and have the intellectual ability to synthesize data and
solve problems.
Applicants for admission to the PA Program at Marshall University who are invited for an interview are
required to certify on the day of their interview that they understand and are able to meet the Technical
Standards described herein with or without reasonable accommodations. A description of the actual
disability and the need for accommodations should not be disclosed at this time. Reasonable
accommodations can be made for accepted students with appropriately documented disabilities. An
accommodation is not reasonable if it poses a direct threat to the health or safety of self and/or others,
if making it requires a substantial modification in an essential element of the curriculum, if it lowers
academic standards, or poses an undue administrative or financial burden. Except in rare circumstances,
the use by the candidate of a third party (e.g., an intermediary) to perform any of the functions
described in the Technical Standards set forth would constitute an unacceptable modification.
An accepted student who has a disability and needs accommodations should initiate the appropriate
steps to register with the Marshall University Office of Disability Services. The Office of Disability
Services will notify the PA Program Director as soon as the accepted student is to receive services. Once
the accepted student is approved for disability services, the student should contact the PA Program
Director regarding the approved accommodations. Accepted students with disabilities which may
compromise their educational process and their ability to practice medicine or which might compromise
the educational process of their classmates may be required to undergo appropriate evaluation to
assess their ability to meet the school’s competencies and/or continue in the program.
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Candidates for admission to the Marshall University Physician Assistant Program must meet the
following Technical Standards:
1. Must be able to obtain information presented in classroom, laboratory, and clinical experiences,
including but not limited to lecture, anatomical dissection, and simulated and real treatment
situations;
2. Must be able to process information presented in classroom, laboratory, and clinical
experiences, including but not limited to lecture, anatomical dissection, and simulated and real
treatment situations;
3. Must be able to learn information presented in classroom, laboratory, and clinical experiences,
including but not limited to lecture, anatomical dissection, and simulated and real treatment
situations;
4. Must be able to acquire information from a variety of sources, including but not limited to texts,
journals, written documentation, videotapes, films, slides, and advanced media resources;
5. Must have the mental capacity to, in a timely manner, assimilate, learn, and communicate large
volumes of complex, technically detailed information, to perform clinical problem-solving, and
synthesize and apply concepts and information from different disciplines to formulate
evaluative and therapeutic judgments;
6. Must be able to measure, calculate, analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information;
7. Must be able to comprehend three-dimensional relationships and understand spatial
relationships of structures;
8. Must be able to process information in a timely manner;
9. Must be able to solve clinical problems in a timely manner;
10. Must be able to observe simulated and real patients accurately close at hand and at a distance;
11. Must be able to assess verbal and non-verbal communication from others;
12. Must be able to demonstrate effective, efficient, and sensitive verbal, non-verbal, and written
communication skills with faculty, peers, patients, and other members of the health care team
from different cultural and social backgrounds;
13. Must be able to consistently perform a complete history and physical exam on any patient
regardless of the patient’s race, religion, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, gender, age, or sexual
orientation;
14. Must be able to tolerate long periods of sitting as well as long periods of physical activity;
15. Must be able to manipulate parts of, or whole bodies of, simulated and real patients;
16. Must be able to tolerate close physical contact with patients for instructional purposes while
maintaining professional deportment;
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17. Must possess the emotional health necessary for the full use of intellectual abilities, the exercise
of sound judgment, and the effective completion of all responsibilities attendant to the
educational expectations, assessment and treatment of patients, and the development of
mature, sensitive, and effective relationships with patients, family members, colleagues, and
others;
18. Must be able to endure physically and mentally stressful workloads and function effectively and
professionally under stress;
19. Must be able to adapt to changing environments and expectations;
20. Must be able to prioritize activities effectively;
21. Must possess adequate sensory function to fulfill the minimum competency objectives for
auscultation, percussion, and other physical assessment and treatment procedures commonly
used in the medical practice;
22. Must have the capacity to learn, model and abide by the professional competencies of the
profession;
23. Must have the ability to record examination and diagnostic results clearly, accurately and
efficiently, and communicate them effectively to the patient and colleagues.
Approved by Marshall University Associate General Counsel April 3, 2019
Approved by Curriculum Committee PA Program Marshall University April 4, 2019
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General MUPA Program Information
The PA Program at Marshall University is a 28-month graduate curriculum leading to a Master of
Medical Science Physician Assistant from Marshall University. The curriculum consists of two main parts:
the didactic phase and the clinical phase.
The didactic phase consists of coursework comprised of lectures, lab activities, hands-on clinical learning
experiences as well as independent study. The clinical phase is composed of 11 consecutive four-week
rotations in PA Primary Care I, PA Primary Care II, PA Psychiatry I, PA Internal Medicine I, PA Internal
Medicine Subspecialty, PA Women’s Health, PA Pediatrics, PA General Surgery, PA Emergency Medicine,
PA Orthopedics, and PA Clinical Elective. The final year is capped by a three-week senior seminar, which
will include a summative evaluation and will serve to verify each student is prepared to enter clinical
practice.
The sequencing and site placement of rotations is at the sole discretion of the PA program. A 60-mile or
60-minute drive, without traffic, will be considered reasonable boundaries for site placement. More
information is provided throughout the program. Students will be provided with a clinical rotation
handbook and will be required to attend sessions for orientation to the clinical year.
Course Registration
The PA program staff will register all students for all PA courses.
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MUPA Program Policy No. 1 - Dismissal and Appeal Policies
The Marshall University Physician Assistant (MUPA) Program has established a Student Progress
Committee (SPC) to review the academic and professional performance of the PA program students,
including compliance with the technical standards. For those students experiencing academic or
professional difficulty, including non-compliance with the technical standards, the SPC will consider the
totality of the circumstances and determine disciplinary actions when needed.
The Student Progress Committee bears the responsibility of evaluating Marshall University Physician
Assistant students who are at risk for not meeting established academic performance and/or
professional standards. This Committee will review the entire circumstances surrounding the student’s
alleged violation as well as the student’s entire record within the MUPA Program before making
recommendations to the Program Director. These recommendations may include various forms of
remediation, probation, deceleration, or dismissal from the MUPA Program. The Program Director will
review the recommendations of the Student Progress Committee and render the final decision to the
student both in writing and in person/or virtually. Any action taken by the SPC may be appealed as
outlined herein.
Areas addressed by the Student Progress Committee include:
• Academic Progression
• Academic Dishonesty
• Professional Integrity (Conduct/Professionalism)
After reviewing the presented information, recommendations will be made regarding students in one or
more of the following situations:
1. Who have received grades that are unsatisfactory
2. Whose professional behavior and/or ethics have been questioned by a faculty member, peer,
staff member, preceptor, or patient; or
3. Whose academic, clinical, and professional progress is in question
The SPC may take the following actions:
1. Dismissal of complaint
2. Letter of reprimand
3. Academic and/or professional performance remediation plan
4. Probation
5. Deceleration
6. Dismissal from the MUPA Program
7. Other such actions as may be deemed necessary by the Committee
Depending on the action taken, the SPC will monitor the student’s progress and may take further action.
Committee members: The SPC is chaired by a member of the principal faculty. The SPC is comprised of
three other principal faculty members appointed by the Program Director and the Medical Director. The
Program Director is not a member of the SPC and does not participate in its deliberation process.
I. Definitions
A. Academic Exercise – any assignment either graded or not graded, that is given in an academic
course or one that must be completed toward the completion of degree requirements.
B. Assignment – includes but is not limited to exam, quiz, homework, assignment, log, paper or
oral presentation, lab assignment, and/or data gathering exercise.
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C. Professional conduct – refers to the characteristic conduct that reflects the commonly held
values and beliefs of the PA profession and Marshall University. At all times students are
expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner and abide by the highest
standards of professional conduct.
D. Remediation – is the MUPA program defined and applied process for addressing
deficiencies in a student’s knowledge and skills, such that the correction of these
deficiencies is measurable and can be documented (as defined by the ARC-PA).
E. Probation – is the period of time to be determined by the Student Progress Committee
where the conduct and performance of a student are reviewed with heightened scrutiny.
F. Deceleration – is defined by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the
Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) as the loss of a student from the entering cohort who remains
matriculated in the Physician Assistant program.
II. Academic and Professionalism Violations, Excluding Grade Appeals
Section 1 - Academic Progression
AP-1 Failure to successfully achieve a grade of 79.5% or better in any didactic and/or clinical
course
AP-2 Failure to raise the cumulative GPA to 3.0 the semester following the semester the
student was placed on academic probation
AP-3 Failure to meet academic standards while decelerated
Section 2 - Academic Dishonesty
AD-1 The unauthorized use or distribution of any materials, notes, sources of information,
study aids, technologies, or tools during or for a graded academic exercise
AD-2 The unauthorized assistance of a person other than the course director or his/her
designated person during a graded academic exercise
AD-3 The unauthorized viewing of another person’s work during a graded academic exercise
AD-4 The unauthorized securing of all or part of assignments or examinations, in advance of
submission by the course director or his/her appropriate designee
AD-5 The unauthorized invention or alteration of any information, citation, data or means of
verification in a graded academic exercise, official correspondence, or University record
AD-6 Plagiarism or the submission as one’s own work any material or idea, wholly or in part,
created by another, including, but not limited to, oral, written, and/or graphical material
whether published and/or unpublished. It is the student’s responsibility to clearly
distinguish their own work from that created by others. This includes the proper use of
quotation marks, paraphrasing and the citation of the original source.
AD-7 The attempt to obtain or obtaining a grade or the satisfaction of degree requirements
by illegal or unethical means
AD-8 Assisting another person to commit an act of Academic Dishonesty
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Section 3 - Professional Integrity
PI-1 Any violation of Academic Dishonesty
PI-2 Failing a drug screen while enrolled in the MUPA program without proper proof of licensed
health provider’s prescription for the medication during the time of the drug screen
PI-3 The unauthorized distribution of medication or drugs of any kind, either prescription or
nonprescription
PI-4 Being intoxicated with alcohol, prescribed or unprescribed medication or drugs while
enrolled in the PA program
PI-5 Failure to meet conditions established in a remediation agreement or learning contract
PI-6 Failure to follow social media guidelines stated in the student handbook under “Social
Media Policy”.
PI-7 Repeated tardiness (three or greater) or unexcused absenteeism during class or clinical
rotation
PI-8 Conduct that would render a student ineligible to participate in clinical rotations, sit for
National Board Examination, or obtain licensure.
PI-9 Behavior that poses a threat to the standards of orderly operation and scholarship or
the mental and/or physical well-being of others.
PI-10 Violation of or failure to comply with any required safety measures or public health
guidelines, directives, or laws, as promulgated or mandated by the University, PA
Program, city, state or federal officials, including but not limited to, the following
requirements:
a. Failure to use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as face masks,
and/or gloves as directed or required
b. Failure to comply with social distancing directives and practices
c. Failure to adhere to guidelines related to groups
d. Failure to comply with any safety directives or mandates
III. Sanctions for Academic and Professionalism Violations
Section 1 - Probation
A. Students may be placed on Probation for the following reasons, including, but not
limited to:
1. Failure to achieve or maintain the required 3.00 semester GPA (for one
semester only),
2. Repeated or egregious violation/s of the Student Code of Conduct or Technical
Standards, and/or
3. Violation of HIPAA or other confidentiality requirements.
B. All students placed on Probation shall have an Academic Plan.
C. The Academic Plan will outline corrective actions the student must take while on Probation.
D. Students placed on Probation must also meet, as set forth in the plan, with their advisor
or clinical director to discuss their academic progress and compliance with the Academic
Plan.
E. The Academic Plan may be amended at the discretion of the Program Director to
address any additional issues that are discovered or not previously addressed.
F. Students who fail to successfully abide by the Academic Plan, or who have future
academic and/or professional conduct issues, shall be subject to dismissal by the SPC.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 29 of 108
Section 2 - Dismissal
A. Students may be dismissed from the MUPA Program for the following reasons,
including, but not limited to:
1. Failure to adhere to academic, clinical, and/or professional MUPA Program
standards
2. Failure to meet Academic Progression standards
3. Continuing conduct for which the sanction of Probation has already occurred,
4. Gross or intentional violations of the Marshall University Student Code of
Conduct, Technical Standard and/or confidentiality requirements
5. Other acts for which immediate dismissal may be appropriate include, but
are not limited to, the following: cheating, plagiarism, conviction of a felony,
moral turpitude, positive drug screen without proper medical authorization,
refusal to submit to a drug screen, multiple exam failures, course failure, or
significant Professional Integrity violation/s
6. Sale or the unauthorized distribution of medication or drugs of any kind,
either prescription or nonprescription
B. Dismissal will occur after review of the student’s academic and/or professional
deficiency by the Student Progress Committee results in referral for dismissal, and final
determination is made by the Program Director.
C. In addition to referral to the SPC and corresponding sanctions, any acts which may
involve criminal conduct may also be reported to the appropriate law enforcement
agency.
Section 3 - Deceleration
A. As defined by ARC-PA, deceleration is the loss of a student from the entering cohort
who remains matriculated in the Physician Assistant Program.
B. The Student Progress Committee has the option to require deceleration due to
academic, professional or personal reasons.
C. Decelerated students will be required to enter with the next class at the time
determined by the Student Progress Committee.
D. Tuition, fees, and other related expenses are the responsibility of the student. (See
student handbook)
Section 4 - Remediation
A. Remediation is defined by the ARC-PA as “the program defined and applied process for
addressing deficiencies in a student’s knowledge and skills, such that the correction of
these deficiencies is measurable and can be documented”.
B. The goal of the Marshall University PA Program’s remediation process is to foster the
student in the mastery of knowledge, skills and behavior in the areas that are defined to
be deficient.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 30 of 108
IV. Academic Grade Appeal Process
The MUPA Program Academic Grade Appeal Process is a formal process for MUPA students to request,
review and redress academic grievances. The purpose of this process is to resolve academic disputes in a
fair, collegial and timely manner.
A. Students may appeal a final grade. Please note that appeals will not be considered for
incorrect answers on assignments, quizzes, texts, etc. Appeals will be considered for
questioned error in calculation of a course grade.
B. Notification of grades is considered the date grades are posted.
C. Timeline for Academic Grade Appeal
1. Within two (2) business days of receipt of a final grade, the aggrieved MUPA
student may appeal the final course grade with the course director
1
;
2. Within two (2) business days of receipt of the appeal, the course director will
issue their decision to the student. The course director’s decision will include
the rationale for their decision and a statement informing the student of the
right for further appeal.
3. Within two (2) business days of receipt of the course director’s decision, the
student may appeal the course director’s decision to the Student Progress
Committee.
4. The appeal must be submitted in writing to the Chair of the Student Progress
Committee.
a. The appeal should include a clear, concise statement of appeal and
justification for this request.
b. The Student Progress Committee will meet within two (2) business
days of receipt of the appeal. The student may be present for this
meeting and provide any additional information to support their
appeal.
c. The course director will have the opportunity to be present and to
submit, in writing, their justification for not granting the student’s
appeal.
d. The Student Progress Committee will adjourn the hearing for
deliberations and a decision on the matter, along with the
appropriate sanction to be issued. The deliberations are not
recorded.
e. Faculty serving on the Student Progress Committee should be aware
of potential conflicts of interest and recuse themselves from the
committee, if appropriate. In these circumstances, the Program
Director will appoint another faculty member of the PA program (if
available), or a faculty member from the Joan C. Edwards School of
Medicine.
f. If the affected student believes a faculty member has conflict of
interest, the student will notify the Program Director in writing and
the Program Director will refer to the Student Progress Committee
about a decision if the faculty member should be recused.
1
All clinical rotation grades will be addressed as above with the Director of Clinical Education being the course
director.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 31 of 108
g. Approval or denial of an appeal with recommendations shall be
determined by majority vote of those present at the Student
Progress Committee hearing. All documentation pertaining to the
matter will be kept in the student’s file.
h. Within five (5) business days, the Student Progress Committee Chair
will prepare a written decision outlining the findings. Their decision
will be forwarded to the MUPA Program Director and the student.
5. The decision of the Student Progress Committee is final.
6. A copy of this communication will be placed in the student’s file.
7. If a grade is affected at any point in the process above, this change will be
instituted by the course director, as soon as possible.
D. Matriculation during pendency of the Grade Appeal
1. If the next didactic semester commences during the Grade Appeal process, the
student will be permitted to attend class until the final decision has been
rendered.
2. If the student’s clinical rotations commence, the student will delay their clinical
rotations until the appeal process has been completed. This may delay
graduation.
3. If the student is in the clinical rotation year and a Grade Appeal occurs, the
student will be allowed to continue in clinical rotations until the Grade Appeal
process is completed.
V. Appeal of an Academic Action Based on An Academic or Professional
Integrity Issue
A. A student who is charged with an academic or professional integrity issue will be issued
a formal written Notice of Charges by the Program Director, or, in the case of a conflict
of interest, the Chair of the Student Progress Committee.
B. The Notice of Charges may be delivered in person or by certified mail with a copy of the
letter to the Chair of the Student Progress Committee.
C. If the Chair of the SPC has a conflict of interest, then the Program Director will appoint
another Chair for the purpose of the hearing.
D. Faculty members serving on the Student Progress Committee should be aware of
potential conflicts of interest and recuse themselves from the committee in such cases.
E. If faculty members must recuse themselves to avoid potential conflicts, this will be
noted in minutes for the meeting and the Chair will appoint a member of the School of
Medicine faculty to replace the recused member of the Committee.
F. Within two (2) business days, the Student Progress Committee will schedule a hearing to
be held no later than six (6) business days from the Notice of Charges to the student or
at such other time that may be mutually agreeable by the Committee and student.
G. The hearing will be held before the following Hearing Committee:
1. Members of the Student Progress Committee
2. A member of the Basic Science Faculty of the Marshall University School of
Medicine
3. The Chair of the Student Progress Committee who will act as Chair of the
Hearing Committee
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 32 of 108
H. The student will have the following rights at the hearing:
1. To have an advisor or attorney present at the student’s expense
2. To question a witness/es
3. To present evidence
4. Prior to the start of the hearing, to challenge the participation of any member of
the Hearing Committee that the student alleges has a conflict of interest.
I. If the student raises the issue of a member of the Hearing Committee having a conflict
of interest, the Hearing Committee will make the final determination as to whether the
challenged member must recuse themselves. No hearing can take place until the issue
of a conflict of interest is resolved.
J. The hearing will be recorded.
K. Recommendations from the Hearing Committee shall be determined by majority vote of
those members present at the hearing.
L. The Hearing Committee will adjourn the hearing for deliberations and a decision on the
matter, along with the appropriate sanction to be issued. The deliberations are not
recorded.
M. The Hearing Committee will review all documentation in the student’s file.
N. The Student Progress Committee chairperson will prepare a written decision including
the basis for the Hearing Committee’s findings within four (4) business days of the
hearing.
O. The decision will be forwarded in writing to the Program Director and the student.
P. The Hearing Committee’s decision is final. A copy of this communication will be placed
in the student’s file.
Q. Matriculation during pendency of an Academic or Professional Integrity Issue Appeal
1. If the next didactic semester commences during the appeal process, the student
will be permitted to attend class until the final decision has been rendered.
2. If the student’s clinical rotations commence, the student will delay their clinical
rotations until the appeal process has been completed. This may delay
graduation.
3. If the student is in clinical rotations and an appeal for an Academic or
Professional Integrity Issue is being considered, the Program Director and
Director of Clinical Education have the discretion to allow the student to
continue in clinical rotations.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 33 of 108
MUPA Program Policy No. 2 - Screening
Prior to matriculation into the Marshall University PA Program, students are required to obtain a
complete history and physical and required health immunizations. In addition, a background check and
drug screening must be done. All documentation is due to the PA program office by December 1. The
program adheres to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention vaccination standards for health care
workers. Prior to the beginning of rotations, all students will be required to repeat all screening. Due
dates will be communicated to students by the Director of Clinical Education well in advance of required
dates.
MUPA Program Policy No. 3 - Immunization Policy
To ensure compliance with the current recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC), all matriculating and current students of the physician assistant program at Marshall
University are required to present proof of immunity to the following:
• Rubella (German Measles) – titer required
• Rubeola (Measles) – titer required
• Mumps – titer required
• Varicella (Chicken Pox) – titer required
• Hepatitis B – documentation of three immunizations and quantitative titer required
• Tetanus; Diphtheria; Pertussis – Proof of immunization
• Tdap – recent Td > two years Tdap required
• TST (Tuberculin skin testing) or QuantiFERON Gold Assay
• Flu – One dose yearly
• COVID Vaccine 2 dose series if Pfizer or Moderna, or single dose Johnson and Johnson
A student physical examination form shall be provided to all students upon acceptance to the program.
A physician or designated health care provider MUST complete and sign the form. The form must be
returned (along with the proper titer and immunization documentation) to Georgetta Ellis, MU JCESOM
Family Medicine, Division of Occupational Health and Wellness, 1600 Medical Center Drive, Suite 1500
Huntington, WV 25701. Any treatable conditions that the student is at increased risk for or health
impairments that may interfere with the student performance of his/her duties must be reported.
Documentation of immunity (i.e. titer results) must accompany the returned form. Should the titer
indicate that the student is not appropriately immunized, additional vaccines may be required. In the
case of a positive TB reading, documentation of follow-up (i.e. x-ray) and any needed treatment will also
be required.
Noncompliant students will not be eligible for registration and, therefore, matriculation will be
delayed. Extensions may be granted based upon late acceptance or other special circumstances as
deemed necessary and appropriate by the Program Director for the PA program. Those granted an
extension may have up to one semester to become complaint. In cases of allergy or religious objections,
please contact Marshall Health at 304-691-1110.
MUPA Program Policy No. 4 - Health Care Provider Policy
Principal faculty, the Program Director and the Medical Director must not participate as health care
providers for students in the MUPA Program.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 34 of 108
MUPA Program Policy No. 5 – Background Check
When accepted to the program, all students will receive an application packet that will include
information on obtaining a background check. This must be done with the designated vendor; no others
will be accepted. This MUST be completed by the designated due date on the information provided to
the students. Typically, this will be by December 1 of the year preceding matriculation.
Background checks are required to assure patient safety. Clinical sites require this information prior to
accepting students for placement. All costs associated with background checks are the responsibility of
the student. A second background check will be obtained prior to the beginning of clinical rotations.
Occasionally sites may require further or more detailed background checks. Students will be notified of
this as soon as possible and will be required to comply as directed by program faculty.
Positive results in the criminal background check will be handled on a case-by-case basis, depending on
the nature of the charges and the outcome of the charges.
Drug Screening
Documentation of a negative drug screen is a common requirement. When accepted to the program, all
students will receive a packet that will include information on obtaining a urine drug screen. This must
be done with the designated vendor; no others will be accepted. A minimum of ten percent of
Marshall’s PA class will be submitted to random drug screening every semester. Students with a positive
drug screen at any time during enrollment in the program will be advised on a case-by-case basis and
will be subject to action by the Student Progress Committee.
MUPA Program Policy No. 6 - Illicit Drug and Alcohol Screening Policy
Entering the medical profession is a profound privilege and responsibility to not only oneself but to future
patients. Physician assistant students should hold themselves to the highest of standards. This policy is
intended to improve the culture and reputation of the Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of
Medicine Physician Assistant Program. Substance abuse is not appropriate for PA students as it is a
reflection of poor judgement that can affect personal lives, professional careers, and the lives of our
current and future patients and their families. The intent is that current and future Marshall University PA
students continue to foster an environment of professionalism and integrity. Formal education will occur at
matriculation and annually thereafter regarding substance abuse and its impact on health care providers
and their patients; the roles and responsibilities of the West Virginia Medical Professionals Health Program
(WVMPHP) regarding providing testing, evaluation and treatment of substance abuse; and the
responsibility of all members of the Marshall University PA Program, and the school of medicine
community in reporting incidents of substance abuse.
We have established a drug-free workplace (DFWP) policy that balances our respect for individuals with the
need to maintain an alcohol and drug-free environment.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 35 of 108
Requirement for Testing
• Drug testing is required for all PA students prior to matriculation and prior to beginning rotations
(at a time specified by the program).
• Random drug and alcohol testing of 10% of enrolled students can occur at any time at the
discretion of the administration with a recommendation of at least three random screenings per
academic year.
• Two or more expressions of concern from any combination of classmate, faculty, attending, staff or
administrator will be considered reason for testing of the student in question.
• No student is exempt from random or probable cause drug testing including students in leadership
positions.
Drug Testing
• To ensure accuracy and fairness, all testing will be conducted according to accepted industry
standards allowing for confidentiality and privacy. Pre-access, random and reasonable suspicion
testing will be conducted using lab-based testing. In the event of a non-negative result, a
confirmation test will be conducted with the opportunity for review by a medical review officer.
This includes the opportunity for students who test positive to provide a legitimate medical
explanation, such as a physician's prescription, for the positive result and a documented chain of
custody.
• All drug-testing information will be maintained in separate confidential records.
• Each student, as a condition of continued participation in the program, will be required to
participate in pre-access and random testing upon selection or request of management.
Prohibited Behavior
It is a violation of our policy to use, possess, sell, trade, and/or offer for sale alcohol, illegal drugs or
intoxicants.
Procedures upon a Positive Result
• The student will be removed from classes and/or clinical duties and placed on administrative
leave until formal assessment is completed. Return to academic responsibilities are handled on a
case-by-case basis and in coordination with the WVMPHP.
• The student has the right to review and provide explanation for any positive drug or alcohol
screen with the chair of the Student Progress Committee or the Program Director.
• Confirmatory testing may be required or at the request of the student or administration.
• First Offense: The student will be referred to the WVPHP for a formal assessment to assure no
emotional distress is present and student safety is confirmed. The student will be subject to
increased frequency of drug and alcohol testing and counseling as recommended by the PHP.
Upon satisfactory completion/compliance of such a program, the student has the right to have
their record in the PA program expunged. Any cost of recommendations by the WVMPHP is the
responsibility of the student.
• Second Offense/Non-compliant First Offense: Student will be referred to the Student Progress
Committee.
• Any student who refuses drug or alcohol testing is subjected to referral to the Student Progress
Committee for consideration of program dismissal.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 36 of 108
Additional Consequences
• Any student with a positive result who holds a leadership position will be removed from their
position and be deemed ineligible for other leadership positions.
• Any student proven to be distributing drugs of any kind, either prescription or nonprescription,
will automatically be referred to the Student Progress Committee and will be subject to
immediate dismissal. Referral to law enforcement will occur if necessary.
• Any student suspected of using prescription medication without proper proof of a physician’s
prescription in their name will be subject to the same policies as above.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 37 of 108
Student Professional Responsibility
• It is the professional responsibility of any student to report any concerns of others using or
distributing drugs and/or overconsumption of alcohol.
• Students with signs or symptoms of impairment should be reported to the Program Director.
• “Red Flag” warning signs that possibly suggest impairment include, but are not limited to, the
following:
o Physical
o Sleep disorders
o Frequent accidents
o Eating disorders
o Deterioration in personal hygiene or appearance
o Multiple chronic physical complaints for which no physical basis has been found
o Family
o Conflict
o Disturbed spouse
o Withdrawal from family members
o Separation or divorce proceedings
o Sexual problems, extramarital affairs
o Social
o Isolation from peers
o Withdrawal from outside activities
o Embarrassing or inappropriate behavior at social functions
o Driving while intoxicated
o Unreliability, unpredictability
o Interaction with police
o Depression
o Risk-taking behavior
o Tearfulness
o Mention of death wish/suicide
o Slowed behavior and attention
o Flat or sad affect
o Dilated or pin-point pupils
o Wide swings in mood
o Self-medication with psychotropic drugs
o Alcohol on breath at work or in class
o Uncontrolled drinking at social events
o Concerns of spouse or significant other about alcohol or drugs
o Moroseness
o In Hospital
o Unexplained absences or chronic tardiness
o Spending excessive time at the hospital
o Marked behavioral changes
o Decreasing quality of or interest in work
o Increasing difficulties with peers or staff
o In Academic Settings:
o Absence from required classes or coursework
o Any sharp variance in grades or academic performances
o Change in behaviors
o Unprofessional actions
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 38 of 108
Assistance
Marshall University Physician Assistant Program recognizes that alcohol and drug abuse and addiction are
treatable illnesses. We also realize that early intervention and support improve the success of
rehabilitation. To support our students, our policy encourages students to seek help if they are concerned
that they or their family members may have a drug and/or alcohol problem.
Confidentiality in Regard to Illicit Drug and Alcohol Screening Policy
Information provided to the physician assistant program regarding drug and alcohol issues will be kept
confidential to the extent permitted by law.
* If a student is referred to the WVPHP, in order to assure that proper communication between all parties,
the student must sign a release of information allowing the WVPHP to submit a general summary of the
student’s compliance with requirements of the WVPHP to the Program Director. All information exchanged
will remain confidential and will be maintained in a secure file in the Program Director’s office. Any
medical/health related records will be confidentially stored.
If a clinical affiliation requires additional immunization, health screening, background check, or drug
screening, it will be the student’s responsibility, at their cost, to comply. The PA program will provide
notification of such requirement to students as soon as possible.
Prevention of Exposure to Infectious and Environmental Hazards
Students receive ongoing education in the Marshall University PA Program on how to protect
themselves and others from exposure to infectious and environmental hazards. Students will be
required to attend/obtain blood borne pathogen training during the first week of the first PA semester.
This occurs prior to any exposures in Gross Anatomy for the PA or clinical experiences. In addition,
Universal Precautions will be taught during orientation and again in Testing and Procedures I. Blood
Borne Pathogen training and Universal Precautions will be reviewed prior to beginning clinical rotations.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 39 of 108
MUPA Program Policy No. 7 - Post-Exposure Policy for Management of
Blood and Body Fluid Exposure
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & WELLNESS
304-691-1100
*If at any time, an exposed PA student is unable to contact the MUPA Director of Clinical Education or
Program Director, any of the administrative safety officers listed below should be contacted.
Safety Officers by Department
Administration
Lisa Maynard (304-691-1720)
Nathan Ward (304-691-1705)
Cardiology
Evie Davis (304-691-8535)
Cynthia Garrett (304-691-8522)
Continuing Medical Education
David Bailey (304-691-1770)
Custodial Services
Rusty Dobbins (304-691-1613)
Dermatology
Teresa Alexander (304-691-6829)
Family Practice
Judy Watters (304-691-1190)
Erin Greenlee (304-691-1057)
Graduate Medical Education
Cindy Dailey (304-691-1817)
Jo Ann Raines (304-691-1823)
Internal Medicine
Marla Nichols (304-691-1687)
Amy Caldwell (304-691-1007)
Information Technology
Mike McCarthy (304-691-1765)
Maintenance
Marty Newman (304-691-1614)
Marketing
Sheanna Spence (304-691-1639)
Neurosurgery
David O’Dell (304-691-1157)
Brandy Adkins (304-691-1988)
Nursing
Melissa Jeffrey (304-691-8724)
Occupational Health
Georgetta Ellis (304-691-1110)
OB/Gyn
Rachel Sargent (304-691-1464)
Mindy Lloyd (304-691-1413)
Office of Medical Education
Amy Smith (304-691-8684)
Orthopaedics
Melanie McSweeney (304-526-2607)
Amber Porter (304-691-1348)
Ophthalmology
David Conley (304-691-8803)
Tiffany Adkins (304-691-8766)
Pathology
Dolores Faulkner (304-691-8860)
Pediatrics
Jarrett Gerlach (304-691-1312)
Bert Ellis (304-691-1324)
Pharmacy
Jeff Fenerty (304-691-8770)
William Finley (304-691-6879)
Psychiatry
Ashley Cleek (304-691-1568)
Safety Director
Jamey Montgomery (304-691-1642)
Student Affairs
Laura Christopher (304-691-1730)
Surgery
Charles Shumaker (304-691-1298)
Sarah Jones (304-691-6916)
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 40 of 108
INTRODUCTION: Post-exposure evaluation and initiation of prophylaxis therapy, if indicated, should be
available to those who have sustained exposures to blood or body fluids that may be infected with
blood borne pathogens. Those covered under this policy include faculty
, employees, residents, PA
students, patients, visiting students, visitors and authorized guests or vendors.
RATIONALE
:
While avoiding occupational exposure to blood borne pathogens is the best way to prevent
transmission of HIV and viral hepatitis, exposures can and do happen in the workplace. There are
regimens for post
-exposure management and follow-up, approved and reco
mmended by the U.S. Public
Health Service and
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that can potentially minimize
the morbidity and mortality from such exposures.
PURPOSE
: To provide timely post-exposure evaluation and follow-up to those sustaining exposure to
potentially infectious blood or body fluids.
REVIEW
: This policy is subject to review and approval by the Administration of Joan C. Edwards School
of Medicine at Marshall University and University Physicians & Surgeons, Inc. (SOM/UP&S) as required
by changes in CDC guidelines, West Virginia statute or instit
utional need.
I. DEFINITIONS
A. Body fluids considered infectious: substances that have been implicated in the transmission of
HIV and viral hepatitis, i.e., blood, cerebrospinal, synovial, pleural, peritoneal, pericardial, amniotic
fluids. Breast milk, semen and vaginal secretions are known as infectious agents but have not been
implicated in occupational settings as a mechanism of transmission unless they are contaminated
with VISIBLE blood.
B. Body fluids considered non-infectious if no visible blood present: sputum, nasal secretions,
saliva, sweat, tears, urine, feces, emesis (gastric fluids).
C. Blood borne Pathogens: for the purpose of this policy blood borne pathogens refer to HIV,
Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C.
D. Collateral Safety Officer: an employee within a department designated to handle safety issues
outlined by SOM/UP&S.
E. Emergency Department (ED): a facility which is usually attached to a general medical hospital;
sometimes referred to as an emergency room (ER), which is staffed and manned 24 hours a day by
physicians and trained personnel who handle a wide range of medical emergencies.
F. Exposed person: a person exposed to blood or body fluids through needle stick, instruments,
sharps, surgery or traumatic events; or
G. HIV: the human immunodeficiency virus that has been identified as the causative agent of AIDS
H. Non-exposed person: a person whose intact skin only has been in contact with a substance that
potentially carries a blood borne pathogen.
I. Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP): a defined regimen, as formulated by the CDC, to aid in the
prevention of the development of infection with HIV and prescribed by an evaluating institution or
physician.
J. Post-Exposure Management Team: a team of individuals identified usually by the SOM/UP&S
Safety Officer or other responsible personnel involved in an exposure that is responsible for follow-
up with the exposed person. Members of the team may vary according to need and circumstance
and will usually include the physician involved in source patient evaluation, a physician to continue
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 41 of 108
PEP treatment, and/or other persons knowledgeable in the process of care and evaluation of
individuals exposed to blood borne pathogens.
K. Post-Exposure Management to Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C: a defined regimen of serologic
testing, follow-up and treatment may be recommended by an evaluating institution or physician.
1. a person whose mucous membranes are exposed to visible blood or body fluids or laboratory
specimens considered occupationally infectious; or
2. a person whose of intact skin is exposed to similar substances when such skin is chapped,
abraded or afflicted with dermatitis or the contact is prolonged or involving an extensive area.
L. Source Patient: any individual, living or dead, whose blood or other potentially infectious
materials may be a source of exposure to an exposed person.
II.
SCOPE OF IMPLEMENTATION
A. This policy is meant to cover anyone as defined in the introduction above who sustains an
exposure to blood or body fluid that would define them as an exposed person in the previous
section of Definitions.
B. The method of dissemination and education regarding such policy shall be the responsibilities of
the Department Chairs or their designee (Safety Collateral Officer), the Program Directors for each
residency, the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs for medical s
tudents and the SOM/UP&S Safety
Officer for those not directly under those areas. It is the intention that every person who may
potentially be involved with an occupational exposure of this type be aware of the basic policy and
steps for management.
C. Physician assistant students and resident physicians must be vaccinated for Hepatitis B and
present serologic results before beginning their programs. Those who are classified as having
potential for blood borne pathogen exposure are to have the prescribed OSHA education and
training at the time of matriculation
and yearly thereafter. Every person, considered at risk or not,
however, is to report an exposure immediately.
D. It is the intention that exposures as described within this policy be reported and handled
appropriately. No impediment to this process is to be tolerated and problems associated with
such are to be reported to the SOM/UP&S Safety Officer or other person of responsibility for this
policy within the SOM/UP&S.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 42 of 108
MUPA Policy No. 8 - Policy for Exposure to Infectious and Environmental
Hazards
Policy for exposure to needle stick, blood or body fluid:
III. PROCEDURE
STEP 1: Immediate Treatment
Percutaneous injury by needle sticks or other sharp objects, in which there is the slightest suggestion
that the integrity of skin has been broken by a potentially contaminated item, requires immediate
treatment.
1. Wash the wound thoroughly with a sudsy soap and running water; the soap directly reduces the
virus's ability to infect. If water is not available, use alcohol.
2. Remove any foreign materials embedded in the wound.
3. If not allergic, disinfect with Betadine solution.
Non-intact Skin Exposure
1. Wash skin thoroughly as in #1 above.
2. If not allergic, disinfect with Betadine solution.
3. There is no evidence that squeezing the wound or applying topical antiseptics further reduces the
risk of viral transmission.
Mucous Membrane Exposure
Irrigate copiously with tap water, sterile saline or sterile water.
Intact Skin Exposure
Exposure of intact skin to potentially contaminated material is not considered an exposure at any
significant risk and is neither considered an exposed person or in need of evaluation. Thoroughly clean
and wash exposed intact skin.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 43 of 108
STEP 2: Exposure Protocol
Exposure within Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine or University Physicians and
Surgeons (SOM/UP&S):
If the PA student is within the local geographic work areas of SOM or UP&S and during normal business
hours, the exposure should be immediately communicated to the Collateral Safety Officer within that
Department. If the exposed person cannot identify the Collateral Safety Officer immediately, that
person should ask for immediate help or direction from other responsible personnel. The Collateral
Safety Officer or other responsible person should immediately direct the exposed patient to Family
Medicine Division of Occupational Health & Wellness. The exposed person should immediately identify
themselves as having been exposed to a blood borne pathogen and insist on urgent evaluation. If PEP is
going to be recommended or initiated to an exposed person, this needs to be started within two hours
of exposure per current CDC guidelines. If the exposed person is an employee of SOM/UP&S, it is
important to make sure that the Family Medicine Division of Occupational Health & Wellness generate a
Worker’s Compensation Form and does not bill your insurance. Because PA students are not employees
who are covered by Worker's Compensation, a Worker's Compensation Form need not be completed. In
the case of a medical student, his or her health insurance will be billed. If the exposure occurs after work
hours or a safety officer or other responsible personnel within the work area is not immediately
available, the exposed person should proceed on their own to the ED for immediate and timely
evaluation. The exposed person is to report back the incident and the outcome of that initial evaluation
as soon as feasibly possible to the SOM/UP&S Safety Officer or the Collateral Safety Officer. It will be the
responsibility of the exposed person to complete the appropriate Incident Report Form
(https://jcesom.marshall.edu/about/emergency-adverse-event-protocols/). From this website, please
select Marshall Health Employees (see screenshot below).
Exposure within an Affiliated Hospital:
If the exposed PA student is functioning within an affiliated hospital, the incident is to be reported
immediately to a nursing supervisor or other obvious hospital personnel. The exposed person will be
handled according to the hospital’s policies and procedures for such an exposure. This process should
involve immediate referral to an ED. These hospitals will have their own mechanisms for tracking and
Post-Exposure Management, if needed. However, the incident is to be reported as soon as possible to
the Division of Occupational Health & Wellness. If the exposed person is unable to reach the Div. of
Occupational Health & Wellness representative within 24 hours or the next business day, then another
responsible person within administration must be contacted. The exposed person must complete the
appropriate Incident Report Form. If appropriate, they will identify a Post-Exposure Management Team
for the exposed person.
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Exposure at a Health Facility other than SOM/UP&S or an Affiliate Hospital:
When a person is exposed at a health facility other than SOM/UP&S or an affiliated hospital, the
exposed person should immediately report the incident to a person of responsibility at the location.
Each office or facility dealing with healthcare or handling blood or body fluids pathogens should have its
own procedures and policies for dealing with an exposure. If it is clear to the exposed person that the
remote facility has no mechanism in place to deal with the exposure that includes evaluation by a
trained medical professional, that person is to go to the nearest ED and ask for initial and emergent
evaluation for exposure to a blood borne pathogen. These instances would most frequently involve a
medical student or resident assigned off-site. The Division of Occupational Health & Wellness should be
contacted as soon as possible about the exposure. If the exposed person is unable to reach the Division
of Occupational Health & Wellness within 24 hours or the next business day, then another responsible
person within administration must be contacted. The exposed person must complete the appropriate
Incident Report Form. If appropriate, the Division of Occupational Health & Wellness will identify a Post-
Exposure Management Team for the exposed person.
STEP 3: SOURCE PATIENT
If the exposure occurs within the confines of SOM or UP&S areas of responsibility, it is the duty of the
Division of Occupational Health & Wellness, the Collateral Safety Officer or other responsible person
available at the time of exposure to begin the assessment and evaluation of the source patient or source
specimen according to protocol, if such source is identifiable.
Under circumstances where a source patient or known source patient's specimen has been implicated in
an exposure, that source patient will be asked to submit to HIV and acute Hepatitis B and C testing.
Obtain a specific consent for HIV testing by linking to MUMC HIV (AIDS) Laboratory Consent. If this
source is under SOM or UP&S jurisdiction, it will be done at no cost to the individual. The cost is to be
covered by the individual department or independent site where the exposure occurred. No source
patient or source patient's specimen may be tested for HIV without their specific consent under West
Virginia Code. It is the responsibility of the SOM/UP&S Safety Officer, Collateral Safety Officer or other
responsible personnel to appoint a healthcare provider within our system to handle the issues
surrounding a source patient when an exposure occurs. Blood may be tested in lieu of full consent in
bonafide medical emergencies, when in the estimation of the physician treating the exposed person
that the exposure was significant and substantial and the HIV status of the source absolutely must be
known. However, blood cannot be obtained on a patient actively refusing a blood draw, so this
procedure can only be followed when there is already appropriate blood available for the patient, the
patient cannot be contacted within a reasonable time, or the patient is unable to express open refusal. If
the source patient refuses testing or cannot give consent, then it should be documented on the MUMC
HIV (AIDS) Laboratory Consent Form in section 4 labeled “UNCONSENT”.
The source patient is to be notified of all results, if possible, having been given the required pre- and
post-exposure counseling. The source patient's health care provider may also be notified if appropriately
approved for release by the patient. The only other persons made aware of such results are the exposed
person and the post-exposure management team. These records will be maintained in a confidential
manner within the SOM/UP&S Safety Officer's files. An identifying number will be assigned to the source
patient file for tracking purposes.
Treatments involving PEP for the exposed person and any possible future exposure-related diseases or
disabilities for the exposed person shall not be the responsibility of SOM or UP&S. These costs are to be
covered under appropriate entities such as Worker's Compensation, Health Insurance, Disability
Insurance or the responsibility of the exposed person. Any diseases or disabilities discovered during
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 45 of 108
testing of the source patient are not the responsibility of SOM or UP&S and are the responsibility of the
source patient.
IV. DOCUMENTATION
The details of an exposure and all associated testing, treatment and follow-up for exposed person are
not placed in a medical record unless appropriately approved for release. Documentation of the incident
is to be kept in the SOM/UP&S Safety Officer's files. The results of the source patient's testing shall be
anonymously placed in the exposed person's record using only a traceable identifying number.
All forms required and necessary to document and report the totality of the circumstances surrounding
each incident and exposed person shall be the responsibility of the UP&S/SOM Safety Officer. The
format and content of all forms required in this policy are to meet any state or regulatory requirements.
V. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The CDC maintains a 24-hour, seven days a week hotline called PEP line, which offers health care
providers around-the-clock advice on managing occupational exposures to HIV and hepatitis B and C.
Exposed persons are encouraged to seek advice and direction from this source at any time but may find
it particularly helpful if there are questions in the immediate exposure period that are not being
immediately handled or answered clearly. This number is 888-448-4911 to seek additional counsel or
advice.
For Physician Assistant Students: Financial Concerns Associated with an Exposure
The PA program encourages students to become aware of the Blood and Body Fluids Exposure Protocol
so that an appropriate course of action can be followed in the event of an exposure. Please do not let a
concern over expenses result in the lack of health care. With appropriate documentation, Marshall
University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine will reimburse any enrolled student up to $10,000 for
costs related to an exposure. Students must provide a copy of their Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from
the health insurance AND a copy of the bill from the site at which you received services, such as lab
work, to Ms. Laura Christopher in the Office of Student Affairs at the Byrd Clinical Center. Submit this
documentation for payment or reimbursement as soon as possible after the event. Direct any question
to Amy Smith at 304-691-8684 or by email at smith30[email protected].
MUPA Program Policy No. 9 - Student Employment Policy
Due to the intense and demanding nature of study during Marshall University’s Physician Assistant
Program, employment during this time is strongly discouraged. Students should treat their PA education
as a full-time job and use their time for class, assignments, labs, study, and personal reflection. In the
event that a student still wants to pursue employment, the student must receive written permission
from the Program Director prior to employment. If permission is received, no accommodations will be
made by the program to adapt to the student’s employment schedule. Students are not permitted to
work during the clinical phase of the program due to the variety of schedules encountered during their
rotations.
Additionally, students are not required to ever work for the program, substitute for or function as
instructional faculty, or substitute for clinical or administrative staff during supervised clinical practical
experiences.
MUPA Program Policy No. 10 - Salutations Policy
All health care professionals, faculty and staff are to be addressed by their titles: Miss, Ms., Mrs., Mr.
Dr., etc. Treat everyone with respect. Patients should not be identified by their first name.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 46 of 108
MUPA Program Policy No. 11 – Professional Integrity/Conduct
(Professionalism)
As part of their educational process at Marshall University, Physician Assistant (PA) students are
expected to develop and demonstrate professional integrity or conduct. This is commonly referred to as
Professionalism. Throughout the PA curricula, Professionalism will be emphasized in many ways.
Professional conduct refers to the characteristics of behavior that reflect the commonly held values and
beliefs of the PA profession and Marshall University. At all times, students are expected to conduct
themselves in a professional manner and abide by the highest standards of professional conduct.
As defined in the Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA) Competencies document as follows:
“Professionalism is the expression of positive values and ideals as care is delivered.
Foremost, it involves prioritizing the interests of those being served above one’s own.
Physician assistants must know their professional and personal limitations.
Professionalism also requires that PAs practice without impairment from substance
abuse, cognitive deficiency or mental illness. Physician assistants must demonstrate a
high level of responsibility, ethical practice, sensitivity to a diverse patient population
and adherence to legal and regulatory requirements.”
Professional Conduct is conveyed on two levels:
1. On an individual level to patients, peers, faculty, and
2. On a larger level to society.
The faculty recognizes that you, as a student, may have little experience and understanding of the
importance of ethics and professionalism in everyday encounters. Thus, it is essential for you to develop
these concepts and mindset during the educational process.
As a Student, Professional Integrity/ Conduct (Professionalism) in the following areas is paramount:
Area 1: HONESTY AND INTEGRITY
o Responsibility
o Self-advocacy
o Integrity
o Ethical decision making in a non-biased manner
o Receptive to feedback
o Maintains honesty with patients, peers, staff and in professional work (e.g.
presentations, documentation, communication, and classwork)
Area 2: RELIABILITY AND RESPONSBILITY
o Arrives to class/ activities timely
o Commitment to excellence and on-going professional development
o Commitment to self-reflection
o Commitment to life-long learning
o Responsive to patient needs above own needs
o Completes tasks as assigned
o Admits mistakes and errors/accepts responsibility for errors
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Area 3: RESPECT
o Respectful to peers, faculty, staff, health care team and patients
o Does not inappropriately use cell phone in class or on rotations
o Maintains appropriate boundaries
o Able to interact with other members of the healthcare team/ peers in a manner that
displays a professional relationship
o Communicates effectively
o Commitment to ethical principles pertaining to provision or withholding of clinical care,
confidentiality of patient information, informed consent, and business practices
Area 4: ALTRUISM AND ADVOCACY
o Accountable to patients, peers, faculty, society and the profession
o Adheres to the best interests of the patients and advocates for them
Area 5: APPEARANCE
o Adheres to dress code requirements
o Wears lab coat and identifying name badge in clinical settings as instructed
Area 6: IDENTITY
o Understanding of legal and regulatory requirements, as well as the appropriate role of
the physician assistant
o Understands the role and limitations of the physician assistant student and does not
represent oneself otherwise
o Sensitive and responsive to the needs of others
o Sensitive and responsive to patients’ culture, age, gender and disabilities
When a student does not demonstrate Professionalism as listed above, the student will be referred to
the Student Progress Committee. Sanctions can include various forms of remediation, probation,
deceleration, including but not limited to, dismissal from the PA program.
By signing below, I attest that I have read both pages of the expectations contained in this document
and understand the consequences for any unprofessional conduct or behavior can include possible
dismissal from the program.
_______________________
STUDENT’S NAME (print)
_______________________
STUDENT’S SIGNATURE DATE
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Classroom Etiquette
1. Food and drink may be consumed in the classrooms during a learning event as long as it is not
distractive to other students. Food will not be permitted in labs. Areas must be clean before
leaving the learning environment.
2. Sustained conversation that is considered disruptive and impeding to student learning may
result in the student being asked to cease the conversation or depart from the classroom.
3. Cell phones, pagers, and PDAs are to be on “silent mode” (not “vibrate”) while class is in session.
Texting will not be permitted during class periods. Students failing to follow such policies may be
subject to being asked to leave class at the discretion of the instructor.
4. Students are expected to be prepared for class at the designated start time and attentive during
the lecture. Any students considered to not be meeting these criteria (e.g. sleeping) may be
asked to leave the classroom.
5. Any behavior determined to be disrespectful to peers or instructors will not be tolerated and
may result in the student being dismissed from class and referral to the Student Progress
Committee.
6. Students may use computers for academic purposes; however, non-productive activities will not
be tolerated, and offenders may be asked to leave the classroom.
7. Any individual faculty member reserves the right to be more stringent with the rules for
classroom etiquette, provided that the framework for those changes is made known through
the student’s syllabus for the course.
8. In the event of an emergency, family may notify the PA program office and we will get you any
urgent messages.
MUPA Program Policy No. 12 - Social Media Policy
Social media are internet-based tools designed to create a highly accessible information highway. They
are a powerful and far-reaching means of communication. As a PA student at Marshall University, and as
a future PA, social media posts can have a significant impact on your professional reputation.
Students are responsible for anything they post on any social media site.
The following examples have been developed to outline appropriate and expected standards for
Marshall University PA student conduct.
Example 1
A student posts on Facebook his frustration with a course instructor or preceptor after receiving
feedback on an exam or clinical interaction with a patient. Even though the student does not name Mrs.
Boles, but does name “my course instructor” or “the Program Director”, this kind of posting can
permanently affect the student’s reputation. Social media sites are not appropriate avenues to vent
unhappiness.
Example 2
A student posts a concern on Twitter for a patient she is treating. Even if the patient is not identified by
name, or other identifiable factors, her prognosis, diagnosis and place of treatment are recorded. This is
considered a breach of confidentiality.
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Example 3
A student finds a case during the day to be exceptionally interesting and posts a picture of a surgical
specimen on her Facebook account. Even though a patient is not identified, this is a breach of
confidentiality.
If you state a connection to the MUPA Program on your social media account, you must identify your
role (i.e. student) and use a disclaimer saying that your views are your own and do not reflect the views
of the MUPA Program.
Failure to follow appropriate social media guidelines is considered unprofessional, and students will be
referred to the Student Progress Committee. Such actions may be subject to discipline, up to and
including dismissal from the program.
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Academic and Intellectual Honesty
Academic and intellectual honesty are paramount to any education program. Per the Marshall
University Board of Governor’s Policy on Academic Dishonesty Policy, No. AA-12:
Academic dishonesty is something that will not be tolerated as these actions are fundamentally
opposed to assuring the integrity of the curriculum through the maintenance of rigorous
standards and high expectations for student learning and performance as described in Marshall
University's Statement of Philosophy. A student, by voluntarily accepting admission to the
institution or enrolling in a class or course of study offered by Marshall University accepts the
academic requirements and criteria of the institution. It is the student's responsibility to be
aware of policies regulating academic conduct, including the definitions of academic dishonesty,
the possible sanctions and the appeal process.
For the purposes of this policy:
An academic exercise is defined as any assignment, either graded or not graded, that is given in an
academic course or one that must be completed toward the completion of degree requirements.
An assignment includes, but is not limited to, the following academic exercises: exam, quiz, homework
assignment, log, paper, oral presentation, lab assignment, and/or data gathering exercise.
Academic Dishonesty, which includes but is not limited to the following actions, is prohibited and is
considered a violation of Academic and Professionalism Standards:
a. The unauthorized use or distribution of any materials, notes, sources of information, study
aids, technologies or tools during an academic exercise;
b. The unauthorized assistance of a person other than the course director or his/her
designated person during an academic exercise;
c. The unauthorized viewing of another person’s work during an academic exercise;
d. The unauthorized securing of all or part of assignments or examinations, in advance of
submission by the course director or his/her appropriate designee;
e. The unauthorized invention or alteration of any information, citation, data or means of
verification in an academic exercise, official correspondence or university record;
f. The submission as one’s own work of any material or idea wholly or in part created by
another. This work is, but not limited to, oral, written and graphical material and both
published and unpublished work. It is the student’s responsibility to clearly distinguish
his/her own work from that created by others. This includes the proper use of quotation
marks, paraphrase and the citation of the original source. Students are responsible for both
intentional and unintentional acts of plagiarism;
g. Attempting to unfairly influence a course grade or the satisfaction of degree requirements
through any of these actions is prohibited;
h. Helping or attempting to help someone commit an act of academic dishonesty
Any accusation of academic dishonesty should be reported directly to the course director or to the
Program Director. Upon receipt of the complaint, the Student Progress Committee chair will be
contacted and charged with the investigation.
If a faculty member observes a student violating the above policy, the Program Director will be notified
immediately. Upon receipt of the complaint, the Student Progress Committee chair will be contacted
immediately and charged with the investigation.
In the case where the faculty member involved is on the Student Progress Committee or Chair of the
Student Progress Committee, that person will recuse himself/herself and the Program Director will
appoint a replacement.
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Attendance
Attendance and being on time to all program-related activities is expected of all students. Class
attendance and punctuality are considered areas of professionalism. Both the volume and the pace of
instruction in the program require diligence and for all classes to ensure academic success. Disruptions
to class due to tardiness will not be tolerated and are considered a violation of professionalism.
Tardiness
Punctuality and attendance are markers of professional behaviors and attitudes. Tardiness, early
departures and absence from classes are not conducive to optimal learning for any student in the
program. It is the student’s responsibility, and an expectation of professional behavior, to arrive on time,
be prepared for class on time (with belongings put away before class begins) and remain for the entire
class period.
Arriving on time shows respect for your instructors and peers in your class. Therefore, tardiness to class
will be considered a violation of professionalism.
The first incident of tardiness will result in a verbal warning by the instructor, with an email to follow.
The second incident will result in a written warning from the instructor, which will be placed in the
student’s file; a mandatory meeting with the student’s advisor will follow. The third incident will result
in a mandatory meeting with the Program Director and another written warning to be placed in the
student’s file. In addition, information will be forwarded to the Student Progress Committee for further
recommendations and actions.
Absence
An absence will be defined for PA program purposes as not being present, regardless of reason, for an
activity when instructors, preceptors or faculty expect your presence.
Although it is the program’s policy that students attend all classes, labs and other program activities, the
PA program understands there may be RARE exceptional events, which might keep a student from
attending class. Students may not take vacations during times when classes are in session. Students are
responsible for all coursework missed during their absence. Students are expected to submit
assignments that are due during a planned absence prior to leaving for that absence. Students in the
clinical year must attend all rotations and adhere to the rotation schedule. Absences during the clinical
year are addressed separately in the MUPA Supervised Clinical Practice Experience (SCPE) Handbook.
Excused Absence
These will be rare and exceptional circumstances.
Unexcused Absence
These should never occur and will not be tolerated.
Unplanned Absence
Illness and family emergencies (not routine activities or those that can be scheduled during nonacademic
time) are generally the only acceptable reasons for an unplanned absence.
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Planned Absence/Time Away Request
Please see the Planned Absence/Time Away Request form at the back of this handbook.
Any student who foresees an exceptional event that would require their absence must complete the
form to request time off and submit it to the Program Director AT LEAST one month prior to the
requested absence. All signatures must be obtained as required on the form. Completion of the form
does NOT indicate approval. Approval or non-approval notification will be made by the Program Director
and communicated to the student.
Repeated absence or tardiness is unacceptable. This will violate the code of professionalism. Each
course also has specific attendance requirements. For rotations, students should adhere to the policies
in the MUPA Supervised Clinical Practice Experience (SCPE) Handbook.
Leave of Absence
A student may be permitted to decelerate by requesting a leave of absence from the Student Progress
Committee, as long as the following conditions are met:
• The student must be in good standing (i.e. having complied with obligations, while not being
the subject of any form of sanction, suspension or disciplinary action) with the Marshall
University PA program, and Marshall University.
• The student must have a 3.0 cumulative grade point average (GPA) and have a 3.0 GPA in
current classes.
Once a Leave of Absence is Granted
• The student may be required to re-take courses at the discretion of the Student Progress
Committee.
• The student must request, in writing to the Student Progress Committee, to re-enter within two
years of the date that the leave of absence was granted.
• If the leave of absence occurs mid-semester, a grade of incomplete will be entered for the
student.
• The student may not re-enter mid-semester, but will be required to re-enter, at a minimum, at
the beginning of the semester in which the leave of absence was granted.
• The student must re-enter the program within two years. If not done within two years, students
must reapply and start the PA program at the beginning, if accepted.
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MUPA Program Policy No. 13 - Deceleration Policy
Deceleration is defined by ARC-PA as “the loss of a student from the entering cohort, who remains
matriculated in the physician assistant program.”
Students in the Marshall University Physician Assistant Program will be allowed to decelerate in the
program one time only.
Deceleration may occur for the following reasons:
• Voluntary – Student requests to Student Progress Committee to decelerate to next class for
personal, family, health or academic reasons. This is considered a proactive action on the part of
the student prior to encountering academic difficulty. Students may be required to retake
courses; this will be determined by the Student Progress Committee. Tuition, fees and other
related expenses are the responsibility of the student.
• Mandatory – The Student Progress Committee may require deceleration due to academic,
professional, or personal reasons. Student will be required to enter with the next class at the
time determined by the Student Progress Committee. Tuition, fees and any other related
expenses are the responsibility of the student.
Conditions of Deceleration:
• Deceleration will be allowed only one time.
• Students who have decelerated must comply with any changes in the curriculum that may
occur.
• Students who decelerated must pay current tuition and fees.
MUPA Program Policy No. 14 - Military Policy
A PA student at Marshall University called to active duty in the United States Armed Forces is eligible for
a leave of absence and will be reinstated following their term of service. Immediately upon receiving
their orders, a student should present them to the Program Director. Upon satisfactory completion of
military service, the student should present discharge papers to the PA Program Director, and the
Student Progress Committee will determine if the student may re-enter at the semester they left, or if
some classes need to be retaken.
MUPA Program Policy No. 15 - Withdrawal Policy
A student may voluntarily withdraw from the Marshall University PA Program at any time by the last day
of class in a semester. Written application must be made to the Program Director for the Physician
Assistant program. A student who completely withdraws will receive a grade of “W”. Withdrawal
notification will be sent to the office of Financial Aid and the Registrar’s office. To be considered for a
tuition refund, see the policy below. Should a student seek readmission, application must be made again
through the admission process.
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Withdrawing from Marshall University – Refunds of Tuition and Fees
Tuition refunds for students who officially withdraw (complete withdrawals only) through the Registrar’s
office will be made according to a schedule that can be found on the Marshall University Bursar’s
website under Reduction (Refund) Schedule – https://www.marshall.edu/bursar. Personal payment
refunds will not be processed until 21 business days after they are posted.
NOTE: Financial aid recipients must have their accounts reviewed and approved by the Office of Student
Financial Assistance before a refund may be issued. If your financial aid is adjusted, you may owe back
for refunds issued based on the original aid amounts disbursed. Adjustments to financial aid can be the
result of a change in hours, a change in the students eligibility for certain types of aid, or failure to meet
satisfactory academic progress (SAP).
Students Receiving Financial Assistance: Students receiving financial assistance covered by Title IV of
the 1992 Higher Education Act, who officially withdraw shall receive a refund in accordance with the
Higher Education Amendments of 1998. Marshall University will determine how much Title IV aid a
student has received and not earned at the time of total withdrawal. The amount of aid earned is
calculated on a prorated basis through 60% of the payment period.
Students Receiving Military Tuition Assistance (TA): The Department of Defense requires the university
to return any unearned Military Tuition Assistance (TA) funds to the Department should a service
member withdraw from a course that was paid for using TA. If a service member withdraws from any
course on or before the 60% completion date a prorated refund will be issued to the Military Service
where the TA funds originated.
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Marshall University Physician Assistant Program
Academic Calendar
Spring 2023 – Spring 2024
(Rotation calendar listed separately)
Spring Semester 2023
January 3, 2023
Orientation week for 1
st
year students (required)
January 4, 2023
First Day of Classes for 2
nd
year students
January 16, 2023
MLK Jr. Day, no classes – University closed
April 21, 2023
Last day to withdraw from classes
TBA
Human Gift Registry Memorial Service
April 17-21, 2023
Final Exams
April 24-27, 2023
Remediation – as needed for students
April 28, 2023
Commencement Ceremony – Class of 2023
April 29, 2023
Graduation Date – Class of 2023
Summer Semester 2023
May 8, 2023
First day of classes
May 29, 2023
Memorial Day, no classes
June 9, 2023
White Coat Ceremony
July 4, 2023
Independence Day, no classes
July 28, 2023
Last day to withdraw from classes
August 7-11, 2023
Final Exams
August 14-18, 2023
Remediation as needed for students
Fall Semester 2023
August 28, 2023
First day of classes
September 4, 2023
Labor Day, no classes
November 22-24, 2023
Thanksgiving break, no classes
December 1, 2023
Last day to withdraw from classes
December 4-8, 2023
Final Exams
December 11-15, 2023
Remediation as needed for students
Spring Semester 2024
January 3, 2024
Orientation week for 1
st
year students (required)
January 8, 2024
First Day of Classes for 2
nd
year students
January 15, 2024
MLK Jr. Day, no classes – University closed
March 15, 2024
Last day to withdraw from classes
TBA
Human Gift Registry Memorial Service
April 15-19, 2024
Final Exams
April 22-26, 2024
Remediation – as needed for students
April 27, 2024
Commencement Ceremony – Class of 2024
April 28, 2024
Graduation Date – Class of 2024
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Supervised Clinical Practice Experiences (SCPE) Calendar
Spring 2023 – Spring 2024
SCPE SCPE Dates Call Back Date
1
May 8, 2023 – June 1
June 2
2
June 5 – June 29
June 30
3
July 3 – July 27
July 28
4
July 31 – August 24
August 25
5
August 28 – September 21
September 22
6
September 25 – October 19
October 20
7
October 23 – November 16
November 17
8
November 27 – December 20
December 21
9
January 8 – February 1
February 2
10
February 5 – February 29
March 1
11
March 4 – March 28
March 29
Senior Seminar
April 1 – April 19
Holidays and Vacation
Spring 2023 – Spring 2024
November 18 – 26, 2023
December 22, 2023 – January 7, 2024
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 57 of 108
Tuition and Fees 2022-2023
Tuition Per Semester
Fees Per Semester
Total Per Semester
WV Resident
$8,920.00
$912.00 $9,832.00
Non-resident
$13,825.00
$1,507.00 $15,332.00
WV Resident – for total of seven (7) semesters $68,824.00
Non-resident – for total of seven (7) semesters $107,324.00
Required Expenses – Not Tuition Related
Unless indicated below, students will be given specific order/purchase instructions for required items.
Lab Coat and Scrubs
$45.00 lab coat
Two sets of program
-required scrubs, $35.00 each
In addition, students must have one pair of scrubs (their
preference) for anatomy lab
– these will be disposed of after
anatomy lab course
– estimated cost is $20.00
Books and equipment (includes
stethoscope)
$1,
400.00 (program estimate)**
Physical Examination
Prior to matriculation, cost will vary
depending on student
insurance and area.
Immunizations
Prior to matriculation, cost will vary depending on previous
student immunizations.
Background Check
$139.60
– this will be performed two times at $69.80 each –
once prior to matriculation and once prior to beginning
clinical rotations. Various healthcare sites may require
additional testing.
Drug Screen
All drug screens must be done as directed
by the PA program. Do not get done until
directions received from program
$45.00 prior to matriculation
(if done locally at Huntington
site
– if not done in Huntington, then $60.00 (must be
arranged for by Huntington site)/ $45.00 prior to going on
rotations (random drug screens are paid by the program)
AAPA Dues
$75.00 (one
-time fee)
WVAPA Dues
$10.00 (one
-time fee)
Marshall PA Student Society Dues
$10.00 (one
-time fee)
Physician Assistant National
Certifying Exam
$5
50.00
Health Insurance
$6,
382.00 per year ***
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 58 of 108
Computer (student’s preference of laptop
or desktop)
$2,000.00
BLS/ACLS Trainings
$35.00/$175.00
Graduation Fees
$50.00 to be paid in last semester
**Cost for books and equipment above reflects the purchase of texts not available via our online
database. Many of our required texts are available as e-texts at no additional cost to students resulting
in significant savings.
***All students are permitted to waive health insurance as long as they have one of the following means
of credible Insurance:
1. Medicare/Medicaid: must provide full coverage in the state of West Virginia.
2. VA or Tri-Care
3. Valid health insurance (individual coverage, from parents or from employer) including
emergency services, local urgent care facilities, diagnostic x-rays, laboratory services,
mental health coverage, prescription drugs, and inpatient and outpatient hospitalization.
Living Expenses Estimate
Living Expenses Estimate (per month)
Rent/Mortgage $650
Utilities:
• Electric @ $95
• Gas @ $75
• Water @ $50
• Telephone @ $75
• Internet @ $50
• Food @ $400
$16,740.00 per year
Transportation
$3,480.00 per year
Loan Fees
Graduate plus fee $829.00 per year
Loan fee $380.00 per year
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 59 of 108
Financial Aid and Scholarships
To discuss financial assistance, please contact the assistant director for student financial assistance for
the Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine (JCESOM) at [email protected] or
304-691-8739. You may also visit the JCESOM Financial Assistance website at
https://jcesom.marshall.edu/students/financial-assistance/.
Scholarship Opportunities
Potential scholarship opportunities include:
AAPA - African Heritage Caucus Scholarship –
https://ahcaapa.mypanetwork.com/page/106-scholarship-information
AAPA - Veterans Caucus Scholarships
https://www.veteranscaucus.org/scholarships/
AASPA Scholarships
http://www.aaspa.com/membership/aaspa-scholarships
AAUW Career Development Grants for Women
https://www.aauw.org/what-we-do/educational-funding-and-awards/career-development-grants/
Indian Health Service Loan Repayment Program
http://www.ihs.gov/loanrepayment/
Indian Health Service Scholarships
http://www.ihs.gov/scholarship/
National Health Service Corps (NHSC) Scholarship Program
http://nhsc.hrsa.gov/scholarships/
PA Foundation Scholarship
http://www.pa-foundation.org/scholarships-fellowships/pa-student-scholarships/
PAOS Scholarships
https://paos.site-ym.com/?page=ScholarshipApp
Society of Army Physician Assistants Scholarship
https://sapa.wildapricot.org/scholarships
Tylenol Future Cares Scholarship
http://www.tylenol.com/news/scholarship
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 60 of 108
Security
Marshall University takes security for all students, including PA program students, very seriously. The
Robert W. Coon Education Building is accessed through ID badge only. Visitors to the building must call
personnel to enter the building.
The Marshall University Police Department (MUPD) does patrol the building. In the event of an
emergency, call 911. The first level of security for the PA program is the Veterans Affairs (VA) Federal
Police, which is adjacent to the Robert W. Coon Education Building. If an emergency occurs, the Federal
Police respond first with the MUPD responding second and, if needed, the Wayne County Police will
respond. When on the Huntington campus, there are more than 30 help phones made available
throughout the campus in addition to the MUPD patrolling. Locations of help phones may be identified
on the Office of Public Safety’s https://www.marshall.edu/mupd/. Also available on this site is
information regarding crime prevention, safety tips, self-defense courses, information about a service to
escort you to your vehicle after dark, and more.
MUPA Program Policy No. 16 - Safety Policy
Each Marshall PA student and faculty/staff will have an ID badge to help assure on campus security. The
building where didactic instruction for PA students occurs is locked and students, faculty and staff gain
entry by utilizing their ID badge. Entry cannot be obtained without an ID badge. If students need an
escort to their car at any time at the Coon Education Building, they should call MUPD at 304-696-HELP
for a safe escort to or from the building.
Marshall University has provided MU Alert which allows the university to quickly communicate health
and safety related information through a combination of communication methods, including text
message, emails and phone calls. All students, faculty and staff can manage their own contact
information and choose the contact methods they prefer. At orientation, PA students will receive
training on the MU Alert system.
The safety manual for Marshall University is available on the University website. The link for the
Environmental Health and Safety Manual is
http://www.marshall.edu/safety/files/2013/03/safety_manual1.pdf.
At orientation, students will be provided training regarding safety in parking lots, sexual assault,
reporting procedures, etc.
Students are instructed to notify faculty or the Program Director immediately, whether in a didactic or
clinical setting, if there are any issues of concern for safety.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 61 of 108
Other Student Safety Programs:
Self-Defense Training
Situational awareness and active shooter training will be held during orientation week.
HELP Phones
More than 30 emergency/service phones are located throughout the Huntington campus and provide
direct contact with police dispatcher 24 hours a day. If for any reason you feel unsafe walking on
campus, do not hesitate to use one of these phones to alert Marshall University policy department to
your situation. You can also contact MUPD directly by calling 304-696-HELP.
The Marshall University Student Safety website is https://www.marshall.edu/student-affairs/student-
safety/.
Safety Report
The Marshall University Fire and Safety report is available online at http://www.marshall.edu/student-
affairs/student-safety. This report contains campus security and personal safety topics such as crime
prevention, university policy, law enforcement authority, crime reporting policies, fire safety policies,
disciplinary procedures, and other matters of importance related to security on campus. The report also
contains information about crime statistics for the past three calendar years, concerning reported
crimes that occurred on campus, in certain off-campus buildings or property owned or controlled by
MU, and on public property within or immediately adjacent to and accessible from the campus.
For general safety questions or concerns, students can approach faculty or the Program Director. Also,
the Office of Student Affairs is available for general questions or concerns at 304-696-6422.
For each clinical rotation that will be used by the program, as the Director of Clinical Education does site
visits prior to student placement, assessment is done for student safety in regard to parking areas,
reporting procedures for students, and resources available at each site for safety.
For clinical rotations, students receive information about each clinical site they are going to, prior to that
rotation. Students will be instructed to notify their preceptor and faculty member if any concerns for
safety.
At each call back day, students are questioned about any safety concerns while at sites. In addition, this
is on preceptor and site evaluation forms. Preceptors are oriented to notify the student of safety policies
and procedures at the student’s initial contact or the first day of rotation.
Program Office Hours
Office hours for the physician assistant program are 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 62 of 108
Classroom Hours
Regular didactic class days are generally Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Please note that
there will be exceptions to this, such as interprofessionalism events, BCLS, ACLS, required guest lectures,
makeup classes outside of these hours and on weekends, etc. As a PA student, all program-related
activities take priority over personal activities, and students should plan schedules accordingly. The PA
program will make every reasonable effort to notify students of changes in a timely manner. Class times
and locations are subject to change at any time.
Faculty Office Hours
Principal faculty, the PA Program Director and the PA Medical Director will post their office hours each
semester of at least four hours per week of availability for consultation. For an appointment outside of
scheduled hours, please contact them via email, phone or in-person. Principal faculty members maintain
an open-door policy, but students should not enter a faculty member’s office without permission.
Disability Services
Please contact the Office of Disability Services, housed in Prichard Hall on Marshall University’s main campus.
No accommodations will be provided unless the student is registered with the Office of Disability Services
and their accommodations, if any, have been approved. This office offers free services to students with any
documented disability. Once the student is registered with the office, information will be sent to their
instructors concerning any approved accommodations the student will receive. Please call 304-696-2467 or
visit http://www.marshall.edu/disability/ for additional information.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 63 of 108
PA Curriculum Sequence
Course Number
Course Name
Credit Hours
PAS 500
Foundations of Medicine
7
PAS 520
Gross Anatomy for the PA
4 (with lab)
PAS 530
Pharmacology Principles
3
PAS 550
History and Physical Exam
3 (with lab)
Second Semester
PAS 600
Clinical Medicine I
6
PAS 601
Pharmacology for the PA I
2
PAS 602
Clinical Concepts I
2
PAS 603
Clinical Assessment I
2
PAS 604
Testing and Procedures I
2
PAS 605
PAs in Health Care
2
PAS 606
PA Evidence Based Prac
2
Third Semester
PAS 610
Clinical Medicine II
6
PAS 611
Pharmacology for the PA II
2
PAS 612
Clinical Concepts II
2
PAS 613
Clinical Assessment II
2
PAS 614
Testing and Procedures II
2
PAS 615
Health Policy for the PA
2
PAS 616
Clinical Specialties I
3
Fourth Semester
PAS 620
Clinical Medicine III
6
PAS 621
Pharmacology for the PA III
2
PAS 622
Clinical Concepts III
2
PAS 623
Clinical Assessment III
2
PAS 624
Testing and Procedures III
2
PAS 625
PA Professional Practice
2
PAS 626
Clinical Specialties II
3
PAS 627
Psychiatry for the PA
2
Clinical Year
PAS 650
PA Primary Care I
4
PAS 651
PA Primary Care II
4
PAS 652
PA Psychiatry I
4
PAS 653
PA Internal Medicine I
4
PAS 654
PA Internal Medicine Subspecialty
4
PAS 655
PA Women’s Health
4
PAS 656
PA Pediatrics
4
PAS 657
PA General Surgery
4
PAS 658
PA Emergency Medicine
4
PAS 659
PA Orthopedics
4
PAS 660
PA Clinical Elective
4
PAS 690
Senior Seminar
3
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 64 of 108
Course Descriptions
First Semester – Spring 2023
PAS 500 – Foundations of Medicine – 7 credit hours
This course develops an understanding of normal physiology, genetics, microbiology, pathology and
pathophysiologic concepts of diseases per organ system. Knowledge will be applied in subsequent
semesters.
PAS 520 – Gross Anatomy for the PA – 4 credit hours (includes lab)
This course encompasses a comprehensive approach to the study of gross anatomy while incorporating
appropriate clinical application to basic organization, structure, sectional, and surface anatomy.
PAS 530 – Pharmacology Principles – 3 credit hours
This course, the first in a series, develops skills related to applying general principles of pharmacology
and pharmacotherapeutics to the treatment and management of disease.
PAS 550 History and Physical Exam – 3 credit hours (includes lab)
This course focuses on the medical record and the skills needed to obtain a medical history and perform
a complete physical examination. Students will apply knowledge through experiential components.
Second Semester – Summer 2023
PAS 600 – Clinical Medicine I – 6 credit hours
This course, the first in a series, provides intensive study of human diseases and disorders in the
selected areas of clinical medicine.
PAS 601 – Pharmacology for the PA I – 2 credit hours
Aligning with the topics in Clinical Medicine I, this course applies pharmacologic and
pharmacotherapeutics’ principles to the treatments of diseases and disorders studied.
PAS 602 – Clinical Concepts I – 2 credit hours
Aligning with the topics in Clinical Medicine I, this course deepens knowledge by developing clinical
decision-making and problem-solving skills in a case-based format.
PAS 603 – Clinical Assessment I – 2 credit hours
Building on History and Physical Examination and aligning with the topics in Clinical Medicine I, this
course applies physical assessment skills to the organ systems being concurrently studied.
PAS 604 – Testing and Procedures I – 2 credit hours
This course develops diagnostic and therapeutic skills along with essential technical skills and
procedures necessary for clinical practice.
PAS 605 – PAs in Health Care – 2 credit hours
This course provides students with the knowledge and understanding of the history of the physician
assistant profession and the development and status of the profession within the US health system.
PAS 606 – PA Evidence Based Prac – 2 credit hours
This course prepares students to search, interpret, and evaluate the medical literature. Emphasis is
placed on lifelong learning and the importance of applying gained knowledge to patient care.
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Third Semester – Fall 2023
PAS 610 – Clinical Medicine II – 6 credit hours
This course, the second in a series, provides intensive study of human diseases and disorders in the
selected areas of clinical medicine.
PAS 611 – Pharmacology for the PA II – 2 credit hours
Aligning with the topics in Clinical Medicine II, this course applies pharmacologic and
pharmacotherapeutic principles to the treatments of diseases and disorders studied.
PAS 612 – Clinical Concepts II – 2 credit hours
Aligning with the topics in Clinical Medicine II, this course deepens knowledge by developing clinical
decision making and problem-solving skills in a case-based format.
PAS 613 – Clinical Assessment II – 2 credit hours
Building on History and Physical Examination and aligning with the topics in Clinical Medicine II, this
course applies physical assessment skills to the organ systems being concurrently studied.
PAS 614 – Testing and Procedures II – 2 credit hours
This course develops diagnostic and therapeutic skills along with essential technical skills and
procedures necessary for clinical practice.
PAS 615 – Health Policy for the PA – 2 credit hours
This course explores issues of cultural competence, ethics, patient safety, and the political and public
health issues that affect patient care for the practicing PA.
PAS 616 – Clinical Specialties I – 3 credit hours
This course provides an intensive study in the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of patients in the
specialty areas of pediatrics, reproductive medicine and geriatrics.
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Fourth Semester – Spring 2024
PAS 620 – Clinical Medicine III – 6 credit hours
This course, the third in a series, provides intensive study of human diseases and disorders in the
selected areas of clinical medicine.
PAS 621 – Pharmacology for the PA III – 2 credit hours
Aligning with the topics in Clinical Medicine III, this course applies pharmacologic and
pharmacotherapeutic principles to the treatments of diseases and disorders studied.
PAS 622 – Clinical Concepts III – 2 credit hours
Aligning with the topics in Clinical Medicine II, this course deepens knowledge by developing clinical
decision making and problem-solving skills in a case-based format.
PAS 623 – Clinical Assessment III – 2 credit hours
Building on History and Physical Examination and aligning with the topics in Clinical Medicine III, this
course applies physical assessment skills to the organ systems being concurrently studied.
PAS 624 – Testing and Procedures III – 2 credit hours
This course develops diagnostic and therapeutic skills along with essential technical skills and
procedures necessary for clinical practice.
PAS 625 – PA Professional Practice – 2 credit hours
This course focuses on the economics of health care, risk reduction, billing and coding, preparing for
clinical practice, and interprofessional collaboration.
PAS 626 – Clinical Specialties II – 3 credit hours
This course provides an intensive study in the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of patients in the
areas of surgery, emergency medicine, and rehabilitative medicine.
PAS 627 – Psychiatry for the PA – 2 credit hours
This course provides a basic knowledge of psychiatry, psychiatric medical conditions, and special
approaches to care for patients with a variety of mental health conditions.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 67 of 108
Clinical Year – Summer 2024
PAS 650 – PA Primary Care I – 4 credit hours
This rotation provides clinical instruction in primary care in an outpatient medical setting.
PAS 651 – PA Primary Care II – 4 credit hours
This rotation provides clinical instruction in primary care in a rural, outpatient setting.
PAS 652 – PA Psychiatry I – 4 credit hours
This rotation provides clinical instruction in the care with patients with psychiatric illness and behavioral
health disorders. Differing aspects of psychiatric care and medication management are introduced.
PAS 653 – PA Internal Medicine I – 4 credit hours
This rotation provides clinical instruction in internal medicine in an inpatient setting. The student will
develop an awareness of the complexity of disease processes and differential diagnosis.
PAS 654 – PA Internal Medicine Subspecialty – 4 credit hours
This rotation provides clinical instruction in an internal medicine specialty.
PAS 655 – PA Women’s Health – 4 credit hours
This rotation provides clinical instruction in obstetrics and gynecology in both outpatient and inpatient
settings.
PAS 656 – PA Pediatrics – 4 credit hours
This rotation provides clinical instruction in pediatric primary care.
PAS 657 – PA General Surgery – 4 credit hours
This rotation provides clinical instruction in the principles of surgery, pre-operative evaluation and
preparatory procedures, post-operative care, and development of surgical skills.
PAS 658 – PA Emergency Medicine – 4 credit hours
This rotation provides clinical instruction in emergency medicine.
PAS 659 – PA Orthopedics – 4 credit hours
This rotation provides clinical instruction in orthopedics in outpatient and inpatient settings.
PAS 660 – PA Clinical Elective – 4 credit hours
This rotation provides clinical instruction in an area of medicine related to a student's clinical or
academic interest. Faculty approval is required.
PAS 690 – Senior Seminar – 3 credit hours
This course applies medical knowledge, interpersonal skills, patient care skills and professionalism
learned in preparation for a student to enter clinical practice.
Communication with the PA Program
Once students matriculate into the program, the only email address to be used is the assigned email
from Marshall University. Students are required to check their email once every 24 hours, Monday -
Friday. The program must have an up-to-date phone number for each student, and the student should
inform the program of any change of phone number or mailing address within 24 hours of the change.
Teaching out Responsibilities
Marshall University is responsible for teaching out currently matriculated students in the event of
program closure and/or loss of accreditation.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 68 of 108
MUPA Program Policy No. 17 - Remediation Policy
Remediation is the program’s defined and applied process for addressing deficiencies in a student’s
knowledge and/or skills, such that the correction of these deficiencies is measurable and documented
(as defined by the ARC-PA).
The goal of the Marshall University Physician Assistant Program remediation process is to foster the
student in mastery of the knowledge, skills and behavior in the areas that are defined by instructors
and/or principal faculty to be deficient. These areas may be in any of the competency areas for the
Marshall University Physician Assistant Program.
Students are required to maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher throughout the program. If the GPA
falls below 3.0, with no failed courses, the student will be placed on academic probation for one
semester only. At the end of that semester, if the cumulative GPA is 3.0 or above, academic probation
will be removed.
• Student may be on probation only one time
• If GPA is below 3.0, the student will be referred to the Student Progress Committee
All remediation is student- or situation-specific and is determined by the faculty, instructor and/or
course director.
1. Remediation is mandatory after each evaluation or skills assessment when the student scores
below 70%. The student must initiate contact with their advisor within 24 hours. A remediation
plan will be formulated by the faculty advisor, after discussion with the course
instructor/director.
2. If a student scores ≥ 69.5% - ≤ 79.4%, this will prompt reinforced learning to be determined by
the course director.
3. The remediation plan must be completed as soon as possible within seven calendar days after
the failed skills assessment.
4. The faculty advisor will monitor and document the student’s remediation.
5. The highest score possible, post-remediation, is 75%.
6. Examples of forms of remediation are the following:
a. Reading assignments
b. Question-based assessments (includes retesting)
c. Written assignments
d. Written responses to selected exam items with reference citations
e. Written self-reflection
f. Problem-based learning exercises focused on areas of weakness
g. Individualized faculty-led tutoring on skills related to deficiencies
7. A student may formulate a self-directed plan to identify and overcome deficiency; however, the
faculty advisor and chair of the Remediation Committee must be included in the formulation of
the discussion. After the remediation, the student will be required to take a second assessment
to prove mastery of the subject. The retake assessment will be determined by the course
director. The student’s new score on the assessment, if above the original score, may replace
the original score. The highest score a student may obtain is 75%. If the student does not score ≥
80% on the retake assessment, the student will return to remediation. However, no more
retakes will be offered.
8. If a student receives a failing grade on a final course exam, they will have the opportunity to
meet with the class instructor or course director at the end of the semester. Weak areas will be
identified, and the student will be able to repeat a comprehensive final exam within seven days.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 69 of 108
a. Passing of the exam does not guarantee passing of the course. (Highest obtainable
score, post-remediation, will be 75%.)
b. The remediated final exam score will replace the first attempt of the final exam. A
course grade of C will be needed to progress to the next semester.
c. A student must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher in order to progress to the next
semester with absolutely no failed classes.
9. If a student fails a course during a semester, the student will fail to progress; however, the
student may repeat the semester with the next cohort of students. The student will be
responsible for all tuition and fees.
10. If at the conclusion of any semester a student’s GPA falls below 3.0, the student will progress to
the next semester on academic probation; however, at the end of the following semester, the
student’s cumulative GPA must be 3.0 or higher.
a. Student may be on probation only one time
b. If student’s cumulative program GPA is below 3.0, then the student will be referred to
the Student Progress Committee
c. The student has the option to repeat the entire same semester with the next cohort of
PA students. The student will be responsible for all tuition and fees.
11. A student may only remediate exams/skills assessments for a grade change to 75%
a. two times, total, in a course and
b. two times, total, in a semester.
c. Grade changes will not be permitted for quizzes.
12. If a student chooses to remediate to possibly improve score to 75%, he/she must declare it prior
to taking the remediated assessment. The student will not be able to change scores
retroactively.
13. If a student scores less than 70% on two exams/skills assessments in a semester, the student will
be referred to the Student Progress Committee.
ALL remediation plans will be written by the faculty advisor on the designated form and placed in the
student’s file.
Supervised Clinical Practice Experience (SCPE) (effective at the conclusion of 22-23 SCPEs)
Remediation for an End-of-Rotation (EOR) exam will occur when the student scores below 80%.
The student will meet with their advisor immediately on Call Back Day. The advisor will provide the
student with a list of content missed on the EOR exam. The student will then be required to complete a
remediation assignment of missed content, including the following:
1. Disease state
2. Significant detail
3. Clinical presentation
4. Diagnosis
5. Management
The remediation must be completed within 14 days of initial EOR. The remediated EOR exam will be taken
14 days after the first EOR. The student must score 80% or higher on the second assessment to prove
mastery of the remediation or the student will return to remediation but no additional written assessments
will be given. The highest grade change allowed is 75%. Should the student need to remediate after taking
the second EOR exam, the student will complete the same assignment of all subjects listed in the PANCE
Blueprint. An oral EOR examination will then be given to this student by faculty assigned, according to
faculty expertise, by the Director of Clinical Education on the next Call Back Day.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 70 of 108
Academic Standards in the Marshall University PA Program
Required Academic Standards for the Marshall University Physician Assistant Program consist of
attaining a cumulative 3.0 grade point average. All didactic courses and SCPE courses will be graded with
a letter grade A-F. All didactic courses and SCPE courses have been assigned appropriate credit hours. A
grade of ‘C’ may be earned in a course, but the cumulative GPA cannot fall below 3.0. If this does occur
then the student will be placed on academic probation for one semester only. If a student earns a grade
lower than a ‘C’ in a course, then the student is unable to progress to the next semester and is eligible
for deceleration (please see Deceleration Policy in this manual). Deceleration will only be allowed one
time. All students must complete all courses. Graduation requirements are outlined in the section
marked “Graduation Requirements”.
Progression Standards
At the end of each semester, the Student Progress Committee will hold a meeting and review every
student. Criteria for advancement to next semester will be based on the following:
• Summary of faculty conversation regarding PA student professionalism using rubric
• GPA review to ascertain compliance with 3.0 GPA
• GPA ˂ 3.0, student will be placed on academic probation for one semester only
Graduation Requirements
In order to receive the Master of Medical Science Physician Assistant, each student must satisfactorily
complete all required courses in the curricula and maintain the program’s performance standards, which
include adhering to the program’s professionalism policies.
Students will graduate from the Marshall University Physician Assistant Program when they have met
the following requirements. A formal vote by faculty on the Student Progress Committee will be
required for students to graduate:
1. Student has earned a cumulative GPA of 3.0 (the summative evaluation for the PA program is
contained in the PAS 690 Senior Seminar course).
2. All borrowed items from faculty, staff, program or university must be returned. Students are
responsible to pay for any lost or damaged items.
3. All fees must be paid.
MUPA Program Policy No. 26 – Degree Completion
It is the policy of the Marshall University Physician Assistant Program that any student who enters the
program must complete the program within six years of beginning the program. This accounts for a
leave of absence if it is requested. It should be understood that most students will complete the
program in the 28 month time period, but all Master of Medical Science graduates must complete this
degree within six years from the date of matriculation.
Community Service
All PA students are required to have at least eight contact hours per semester of community service.
Service opportunities will be provided through the PA student organization. If a student wants to submit
an additional opportunity for faculty approval, he/she should submit a request to the PA student
organization’s faculty advisor.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 71 of 108
Grading Scale
The Marshall University PA Program uses the following grading scale:
A – 89.5 - 100%
B – 79.5 - 89.4%
C – 69.5 - 79.4%
F – ≤ 69.4%
Advanced Academic Standing
Attendance in the program is on a full-time basis only. Students entering the PA program must complete
the curricula in its entirety. Advanced standing or transfer credit is not awarded, regardless of previous
academic, professional or employment experience.
Academic Advising
Each student is assigned a PA program faculty advisor. Students will meet with their advisor once during
orientation week, then during the first four semesters of the program. Each student is expected to meet
with their advisor at least twice during the semester for routine academic advising. These times will be
communicated to the student by the advisor. During the clinical year, advising sessions will occur with
faculty once during each call back day. Students may request to meet with advisors as often as needed.
Recording of Lectures
Recording of lectures is at the sole discretion of the course director. In the event that a guest is
speaking, said lecturer must provide permission to record. If recording of lectures is being requested as
a disability accommodation, please contact the Office of Disability Services. Recording of group
discussions, meetings with faculty, and exams is strictly prohibited.
Clinical Rotation Assignments
All clinical rotation assignments will be made by the Director of Clinical Education and are final.
MUPA Program Policy No. 18 – Clinical Rotation Sites
Students are not required to provide their own sites for clinical rotations. Students may make
suggestions to the Director of Clinical Education for sites and preceptors but are not required to do so.
All sites will be provided by the program. All sites and preceptors are to be reviewed, evaluated, and
approved for educational suitability by the program.
Students must not substitute for clinical or administrative staff during supervised clinical practical
experiences.
At this time, there are NO experiences available for international rotations.
Incidents in the Clinical Setting
Any incident that arises in the clinical setting that affects patient, preceptor, student or staff well-being
must be reported to the preceptor and Director of Clinical Education immediately. Such incidents may
be grounds for being dismissed from the Clinical Site. Further, if the Director of Clinical Education is not
available, then the Program Director should be called. Filing a clinic/hospital incident report may be
required as well. A duplicate of any paperwork a student fills out for a preceptor/clinic/hospital must be
given to the Director of Clinical Education as soon as possible. Incidents involving gross errors in
judgment or practice on the part of the student will be grounds for dismissal from the program.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 72 of 108
MUPA Program Policy No. 19 - Inclement Weather Policy
Whenever by action of the University President (or his/her designee), official announcements are made
that classes are delayed or canceled due to inclement weather, educational and clinical experiences for
all physician assistant students will be amended accordingly. If, for example, the university issues a two-
hour delay, the physician assistant class and rotation schedules will also be delayed. Because it is the
premise of the university that regularly scheduled hours begin at 8 am, classes normally scheduled from
8 - 10 am will not meet; classes meeting from 9 - 11 am will only meet from 10 - 11 am, thus absorbing
the two-hour delay. All classes meeting thereafter on that day will not be affected. If the university
cancels classes, PA program classes will also be canceled.
During times when the Huntington campus is not in session, such as semester break, and courses or
rotations within the PA program are being conducted, the administration of the physician assistant
program in conjunction with JCESOM may choose to delay or cancel classes. Delays or cancellations will
be posted on the PA program website.
Although it is the policy that every reasonable effort must be made to meet classroom responsibilities,
students and faculty will work together to develop a mechanism to make up what was missed.
Faculty, administration and support staff will adhere to the regular MU inclement weather policy.
Because clinical students serve in an apprenticeship/relationship with physicians in the care of patients,
these students will be expected to make every effort to meet their responsibilities. However, in the case
of inclement weather, clinical students shall not be penalized for adhering to the inclement weather
policy announced by the university. Furthermore, students on rural, out-of-state, or out-of-Huntington
area electives are expected to contact the local preceptors for appropriate instruction. Local preceptors
shall have the authority to cancel or delay educational and clinical activities for the student(s) due to
inclement weather.
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MUPA Program Policy No. 20 - Dress Code Policy
Introduction
The following standards for attire apply to all students enrolled in the Marshall University Physician
Assistant Program.
Purpose
To establish standards for student dress and conduct when on campus or when representing the Marshall
University Physician Assistant Program. Our goal is to provide an environment that is comfortable and
inclusive for all. It is expected that your attire will exhibit common sense and professionalism.
Review of Policy and Procedure
This policy will be reviewed by the Program Director and faculty/staff committee every year when
preparing the student faculty handbook for the next cohort.
Identification
Students must wear the MUPA Program-provided nametag that identifies them as a physician assistant
student during all clinical encounters.
General Personal Care Standards
Personal Hygiene
Students will maintain good personal hygiene including regular bathing, use of deodorants, and oral care.
Hair Maintenance
• Hair needs to be neat and clean. Styled off the face and should be of a non-distracting color. Hair
longer than shoulder length should be secured when in close contact with patient.
• Facial hair must be clean and well groomed.
Cosmetics
• Excessive cologne, perfume, fragrant lotions or aftershave is discouraged.
• Cosmetics will be used in moderation.
• Nails will be well groomed, manicured and of short-to-medium length to facilitate patient care.
Acrylic or other artificial nails may not be worn in clinical settings.
• No fake eyelashes may be worn.
Jewelry and Accessories
• Jewelry and accessories must be non-distracting.
• Piercings will be limited to ears.
Tattoos
• Every effort must be made to cover visible tattoos on the face, neck, arms, and hands.
• All tattoos one inch or greater in size must be covered.
• Graphic and disturbing tattoos must be covered at all times. Examples include, but are not
limited to, tattoos displaying violence, drugs, sex, alcohol or tobacco products.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 74 of 108
Attire
• Unless otherwise stated in the policy, a minimum of business casual clothing and footwear is
required for rotation and classroom settings. Business casual is defined as dress shirts, sweaters,
polo-type shirts, suit/sport coats, dress pants, dress khakis, capris, dresses, and skirts. Appropriate
footwear includes loafers, clogs, flats, dress heels, and leather deck-type shoes, tie up shoes, clean
sneakers, and dress boots.
• Men must tuck in their shirts, including dress and polo-type shirts.
• Leggings/jeggings will be permitted as business casual if they are worn with an appropriate blouse
or tunic that is long enough so that it covers to mid-thigh length.
• “Marshall Green Day” will be every Friday during the school year. Marshall University and green
colored t-shirts/sweatshirts may be worn along with khakis or jeans.
• Casual attire will be permitted during scheduled exam blocks, after hours, and weekends. Casual
attire includes pants with no holes and workplace-appropriate t-shirts. Sneakers and flip-flop
sandals (though not in laboratories) will be permitted on this day.
• Special exceptions to the above rules may be considered. Written requests must be submitted to
the Program Director at least two weeks prior to the date of the requested exception. Examples
where exceptions may be requested include, but are not limited to Halloween, student training
events, departmental retreats, and Marshall University spirit events.
Laboratory Attire
• Marshall University Physician Assistant Program-approved scrubs and closed-toe shoes will be worn
in the Gross Anatomy Lab and in the Clinical Lab as directed.
Items not Permitted
• Hats, caps, bandanas, and durags. These items may be worn on campus; however, while in the
classroom they are to be removed. Headgear considered a part of religious/cultural dress or in
cases of medical need (e.g. chemotherapy) are permitted.
• Any clothing that are soiled or torn excessively (e.g. slacks, denims, skirts, shirts, lab coats).
• Any dress considered provocative or non-full coverage undergarments.
• Clothing that advertises or represents “mock advertising,” including alcoholic beverages, sexual
behavior or innuendo, tobacco products, profane language or gestures, or any other advertising
considered unprofessional.
• Tight-fitting workout clothes (e.g. spandex, biking shorts), pajamas, halter tops, tube tops,
miniskirts, skorts, sun dresses, beach dresses, spaghetti strap dresses, midriff tops, low-cut tops,
tops with bare shoulders, or any dress otherwise considered provocative or exposing
undergarments.
• Open-toe and backless shoes are not permitted to be worn in laboratories. Examples may include,
but are not limited to flip-flops, “Birkenstocks” or other sandals. Slippers are not allowed.
• Any institution in which MUPA students are practicing reserves the right to employ dress code
policies that are viewed as stricter than the MUPA Dress Code Policy.
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Appropriate Attire Standards in the Context of Patient Care and Public Interactions
• Appropriate attire is defined to include, but not limit to, the following situations:
• Patient experiences in didactic or clinical rotation year
• Professional student seminar series
• Professional meeting functions
• When prior notification is given (e.g. a patient will be in class)
Attire for Community Service Participation
• Any context where the student is representing the PA program in public, and the attire that is worn
or the personal hygiene is such that the PA program or university could be perceived in a negative
light, may result in that student being dismissed from the activity.
• A minimum of business casual-styled clothing and shoes are required for patient care and public
interaction.
• Students may use computers for academic purposes; however, non-productive activities will not be
tolerated, and offenders may be asked to leave the computer lab.
• Any individual faculty member reserves the right to be more stringent with the rules for classroom
etiquette, provided that the framework for those changes is made known through the course
syllabus.
Disciplinary Action
• Students inappropriately dressed or groomed, or otherwise considered disruptive, may be
dismissed from class, and reminded to comply with the MUPA Dress Code Policy.
• Questionable or disputed cases of dress or grooming will be presented to Student Progress
Committee.
• Repeated actions judged to be violations by the Student Progress Committee will be considered
improper professional behavior and may result in disciplinary action.
• Other policies may be implemented as warranted to ensure adherence to these standards by the
Student Progress Committee.
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MUPA Program Policy No. 21 – Resources for Students with Personal
Concerns
Students will meet with advising faculty at a minimum of two times per semester. Personal concerns can
be identified at that time, and students will be encouraged to seek help. The Program Director and
advisory faculty will exercise an open-door policy, which students can use at any time assistance is
needed.
The Marshall University Counseling Center is located on the first floor of Prichard Hall and offers
professional therapeutic services that can assist students with mental health, academic, career, and
personal needs. Counseling services are confidential and free for Marshall University students. Our
primary goal is to support the mission of Marshall University and the Division of Student Affairs by
providing support and assistance to develop students’ personal growth, academic success, and mental
health. The Marshall University Counseling Center recognizes and supports the diverse needs of
students through counseling, educational, assessment, outreach, and training activities.
The physician assistant program has also worked with Cabell Huntington Hospital Counseling Center to
develop a program where students have quick accessibility to needed services by either faculty referral
or self-referral. Students have access to 10 counseling sessions at no charge. If more sessions are
needed, then insurance can be billed. The counseling center will work with students for appropriate
referrals.
Psychological services are also provided at Prestera Center for Mental Health and Valley Health East
Huntington. PA students have access to the Cabell Huntington Hospital Counseling Center, too. Students
may self-refer or be referred by faculty.
MUPA Program Policy No. 22 - Discrimination or Harassment of Students
Marshall University has a commitment to preventing harassment of any type in the institution and the
MUPA program has zero tolerance toward such acts either by or toward any of its students. The PA
program adheres to the university’s policies on the reporting and handling of any complaint of
discrimination or harassment related to its students. Per Marshall University Board of Governor’s Policy
No. GA-1:
“… the University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, age,
physical or mental disability, marital or family status, pregnancy, veteran status, service in the
uniformed services (as defined in state and federal law), religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation,
genetic information, gender identity, or gender expression in the administration of any of its
educational programs, activities, or with respect to admission or employment.”
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Grievances, Complaints and Student Appeals (not Grade Appeals)
All issues or concerns related to PA program courses should first be directed to the respective course
director. All clinical rotation matters should be addressed with the Director of Clinical Education. If a
student concern is not resolved at that level, then it should be directed to the Program Director. If a
matter is not resolved at the Program Director level, then the matter will be directed to the Student
Progress Committee. This committee will resolve the matter.
Non-academic issues should be addressed with the Program Director.
Marshall University expects all members of its community to act in respectful and responsible ways
toward one another. Our university is committed to providing programs, activities and an educational
environment free from discrimination and harassment of any kind. If you feel this has not been the case,
Marshall University has developed an online complaint/incident system for reporting any complaints:
https://marshall-advocate.symplicity.com/public_report/index.php/pid694611?.
Emergency Communication
In the event there is an emergency and someone outside the university needs to reach a student, they
should contact the program administrative assistant or the Program Director at 304-691-1979. The
program staff will attempt to forward a message to the student. The program WILL NOT give out
student information or location.
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MUPA Program Policy No. 24 - Examination Policies and Procedures
One of the primary means of student assessment during the MUPA Program is written testing of course
material. The following polices apply to the testing procedures for the PA program:
Taking Exams
• For paper exams, only pencils are allowed. The program will provide paper and calculators if
they are needed. Students may not have food or drink during their exams. You must leave
all paper with the proctor at the end of the exam.
• For electronic exams, only a pencil is allowed. The program will provide scratch paper and
calculators if needed. Food and drink are not allowed during exams. You must leave all
paper with the proctor at the end of the exam.
• The use of programmable calculators, cell phone calculators, or any other electronic device
is prohibited during the exam.
• All books and notes must be secured and placed away from the student at either the front
or rear of the room prior to the exam beginning and must remain for the entire exam.
• Students are expected to work without taking breaks during exams.
• No talking is allowed during exams.
• No hats, caps, scarves or hoodies are to be worn during exams. Accommodations may be
made for religious reasons.
• Proctors will not answer questions related to understanding or interpreting exam material.
• Proctors will assess technical issues with exams. Students should quietly notify the proctor if
there is a problem with the exam, missing pages, illegibility, etc.
• Upon completing a paper exam, submit the exam to the proctor and then quietly leave the
room. Upon completing an exam electronically, quietly leave the room. Do not disrupt other
test takers.
• An allotted amount of time will be allowed for completion of each exam. At the end of that
time, if exam is written, all exams must be submitted to the proctor. All scrap paper, if used,
must be turned in to the proctor.
• For either paper or electronic exams, only the answer indicated on the official test item will
be counted. Scratch paper and other writing materials will not be considered.
• Students are responsible for all course learning objectives, lecture material, and reading
assignments.
Missed Exams
• It is expected that students will be present for all exams.
• In the case of an emergency, students must notify the course director as soon as possible.
The student will be asked to provide written documentation of the absence.
• Students may notify the course director via phone or email. If the course director is
unavailable, the student should leave a detailed message and a call back number.
• If a student misses an exam due to illness or injury, they are required to make up the exam
at the earliest reasonable time to be scheduled by the course director. Students must take
make up examinations as scheduled or receive a zero for the missed exam. Any make up
exam may be a different format and/or questions than the original exam.
• Except under extraordinary circumstances, it is not acceptable to notify the course director
AFTER the exam is missed.
• Failure to notify the course director of a missed exam in a timely manner will result in a zero
on the exam.
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Late Arrival to Exams
If a student arrives late to the exam, it is up to the course director whether the student may take the
exam. Late arriving students will not be given additional time to take the exam.
Exam Integrity
Exam integrity is vital to the assessment and academic learning of all students. It is therefore essential
that all academic and professional standards be maintained at all times to ensure fairness and validity of
the exams. Students are expected to follow these standards at all times.
The National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) has strict policies on exam
integrity. The Marshall University PA Program also has strict exam policies:
• No exam may be removed from the assessment room.
• No exam may be copied in any form, including attempting to duplicate questions after the
student leaves the exam room.
• A student should not seek or obtain a copy of a prior exam given by the PA program at
Marshall University.
• A student may not receive or give help from another student during an exam.
• The above actions will result in immediate referral of the student to the Student Progress
Committee, a zero for the exam grade, and possible dismissal from the program due to
unprofessional behavior.
Academic Appeal Process
MUBOG AA-12
https://www.marshall.edu/board/files/MUBOG-AA-12-Academic-Dishonesty-2022-9.pdf
Evaluation of Student Performance
The methods listed below are used to evaluate performance:
• Written examination and quizzes
• Class/lab/seminar assignments papers and oral presentations
• Class/lab/seminar attendance and/or participation
• Lab examinations
• History and physical examination assignments
• Practical examinations/Objective Structured Clinical Exam (OSCEs)
• Clinical site visits
• Clinical year assignments
• Patient logging system
• Academic faculty observations
Marshall University Medical Liability Insurance
Liability insurance coverage applies to those learning opportunities assigned to a student by the PA
program as part of training in the PA curriculum. Coverage is not in effect and does not cover student
activities when they are associated with outside employment, volunteer work or other activities.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 80 of 108
Student Records
Records of admitted students kept by the PA program include:
• CASPA application, supplemental application
• Signed statement regarding completion of health screening and completion of immunizations
from nurse manager, Marshall University Family Medicine, Division of Occupational Health and
Wellness Coordinator
• Student grades of all courses
• Remediation efforts and outcomes
• Any academic or behavioral disciplinary action
• That the student has met requirements for program completion
Access to Student Records
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to
their education records. Students possess the right to grant individuals access to certain records and the
steps for the proxy process can be found here, https://www.marshall.edu/student-affairs/ferpa-
students/. In addition, these rights include:
(1) The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the
University receives a request for access.
(2) The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes are
inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA.
(3) The right to provide written consent before the University discloses personally identifiable
information from the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure
without consent.
(4) The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the
University to comply with the requirements of FERPA.
Directory Information
The Family Education Rights and Privacy states that an educational institution may release without
written consent those records identified as public or directory information for students who are
currently enrolled provided that the institution informs the students of the categories defined as
directory information and students are given an opportunity to refuse disclosure of any or all of the
defined categories.
Marshall University designates the following categories of student information as “Directory
Information”: Student’s official name; Student’s hometown (City, County, State, Country); parents’
names; major and minor fields of study; dates of attendance; degree(s) and date(s) conferred, including
anticipated graduation dates; previous educational institution attended; photographs, videos or other
media containing a student’s image or likeness (collectively “Student Images”); honors and awards
received; classification or class status; participation in officially recognized activities and sports; weight
and height of members of athletic teams; and duties and responsibilities, including dates of service of
graduate assistants, student workers, interns or student volunteers. Requests to prevent the release of a
Student’s directory information can be sent to the Registrar’s office.
To learn more about FERPA and the sharing of directory information, please go to this site.
https://www.marshall.edu/disclosures/ferpa/.
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Student Study Space
On the main floor of the Robert W. Coon Educational Building, there are rooms 105 and 106, which may
be reserved by MUPA students only by contacting the administrative assistant for the PA program.
There is a student lounge on both the first and second levels of the building; each offers multiple chairs
and large tables for group study. In addition, there are rooms and space available in the Health Sciences
Library in the SOM building near Cabell Huntington Hospital, and space and rooms are available at the
Drinko Library on the main campus.
Graduate Student Society
A Physician Assistant Student Society has been formed. Details will be presented during orientation.
WV Association of Physician Assistants (WVAPA)
The West Virginia Association of Physician Assistants (WVAPA) was established in 1977 and is devoted to
representing PAs in West Virginia. “WVAPA promotes the physician assistant concept and profession
through education of professional and lay people and by rendering loyal and honest service to the
medical profession and to the public”. One student from each ARC-PA accredited program is elected to
the board. Membership is mandatory for Marshall University PA students. Application forms can be
found at https://members.wvapa.net/join. Membership is required and is $10 for your time as a MUPA
student.
American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA)
The American Academy of Physician Assistants was founded in 1968. This national organization
represents over 130,000 physician assistants in the country and in the armed services. They represent all
medical and surgical specialties. The AAPA advocates for PAs and educates the public and patients we
serve. Student dues are $75.00 for the duration of your PA education, and membership is required.
Membership application forms can be obtained from the Program Director.
HIPAA Training
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996 is a law designed to improve
portability of health insurance coverage, reduce health care fraud and abuse, and to protect individual
privacy of personal health records. There are two parts of this: 1) the Privacy Rule created national
standards to protect the privacy of personal information and 2) the Security Rule governs the security of
electronic health care information.
In 2013, the omnibus rule was made to provide the public with more control of their personal health
care information.
Students will attend mandatory HIPAA training yearly. The first training will be prior to any patient
encounters in the first year of didactic training. The second will occur prior to the beginning of clinical
rotations. This will be mandatory training for every student.
Blood Borne Pathogen Training
All MUPA students will complete Blood Borne Pathogen training during orientation week as they
prepare to begin their first semester in the Gross Anatomy Lab. This training is mandatory on an annual
basis and is required prior to any clinical experiences or clinical rotations.
Basic Cardiac Life Support
Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) will be taken as a class during the first semester of the MUPA Program.
This will be mandatory.
MUPA_Student Handbook: A Policy and Procedure Manual_updated 9.15.23 Page 82 of 108
Advanced Cardiac Life Support
Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) will be taken during the fourth semester of the MUPA Program,
embedded in PA Emergency Medicine and PA Clinical Specialties II. This will be mandatory.
Electronic Devices in Class
We realize that students carry mobile phones and other electronic communication devices; however,
their use MUST not interfere with class activity. All mobile phones, pagers, IPADS, etc. must either be
turned off or the ringer silenced during class. Disruption to class activity due to these devices will not be
tolerated. Unless during an emergency, use of these devices during class is considered unprofessional
and a violation of professionalism.
MUPA Program Policy No. 25 - Health Insurance Policy for PA Students
It is the policy of the Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine Physician Assistant
Program that all enrolled physician assistant students have health insurance. All students are
automatically enrolled in the school sponsored student health insurance plan and, per policy, must
“waive” out by demonstrating adequate health care coverage. The Consolidated Health Plans student
health website is available at https://www.studentinsurance.com/.
All students are permitted to waive health insurance as long as they have one of the following means of
credible Insurance:
1. Medicare/Medicaid: must provide full coverage in the state of West Virginia.
2. VA or Tri-Care
3. Valid health insurance (e.g. individual coverage, from parents or from employer) including
emergency services, local urgent care facilities, diagnostic x-rays, laboratory services, mental
health coverage, prescription drugs, and inpatient and outpatient hospitalization.
All students who choose to waive out must do so annually by the date posted on the annual renewal
notices.
Career Planning
The Office of Career Education will work with Marshall University PA students at different phases of the
program as determined by the faculty. Services provided include résumé development and professional
development. Please contact them at 304-696-2570 at any time if additional assistance is needed.
Appendix 1.
Marshall University Physician Assistant (MUPA) Student
Handbook
Receipt and Acknowledgement form
The information contained in this student handbook is an overview of current policies and
procedures specific to the Marshall University Physician Assistant Program. It is not designed to
replace the university’s policies and procedures. Students are required and expected to follow
university policies and the policies and procedures as noted in the Marshall University Campus
Resource Handbook, Marshall University Graduate Catalog and the MUPA SCPE Handbook. The
MUPA Student Handbook is published annually. While every effort is made to provide accurate and
correct information at the time of publication, the university or MUPA program reserves the right
to change policies, calendar dates and any statements in the handbook. Any changes will be
provided in writing to the student.
Please read the following statements and sign below to indicate your receipt and acknowledgment
of this material:
1.
I have received a copy of and reviewed the Marshall University Physician Assistant Student
Handbook and agree to abide by the rules and policies contained therein.
2.
I understand that the policies, rules and benefits described in this handbook are subject to
change.
3.
I understand that, should the content be changed in any way, the MUPA program may
require an additional signature from me to indicate that I am aware of and understand any
new policies or procedures.
4.
I understand that any issues of concern may be referred to the Student Progress
Committee.
5.
I understand that my signature below indicates that I understand the above statements.
_______________________
STUDENT’S NAME (print)
_______________________
STUDENT’S SIGNATURE DATE
Appendix 1.
Illicit Drug and Alcohol Screening Policy
Receipt and Acknowledgement form
Entering the medical profession is a profound privilege and responsibility to not only oneself but to
future patients. Physician assistant students should hold themselves to the highest of standards. This
policy is intended to improve the culture and reputation of the Marshall University Joan C. Edwards
School of Medicine Physician Assistant Program. Substance abuse is not appropriate for PA students as it
is a reflection of poor judgement that can affect personal lives, professional careers, and the lives of our
current and future patients and their families. The intent is that current and future Marshall University
PA students continue to foster an environment of professionalism and integrity. Formal education will
occur at matriculation and annually thereafter regarding substance abuse and its impact on health care
providers and their patients; the roles and responsibilities of the West Virginia Medical Professionals
Health Program (WVMPHP) regarding providing testing, evaluation and treatment of substance abuse;
and the responsibility of all members of the Marshall University PA Program, school of medicine
community reporting incidents of substance abuse.
We have established a drug-free workplace (DFWP) policy that balances our respect for individuals with
the need to maintain an alcohol and drug-free environment.
I hereby acknowledge receipt of the Marshall University Physician Assistant Program Illicit Drug and
Alcohol Screening policy. I understand this policy and will abide by its requirements.
_______________________
STUDENT’S NAME (print)
_______________________
STUDENT’S SIGNATURE DATE
Appendix 1.
Planned Absence/Time Away Request Form
It is the Marshall University Physician Assistant (MUPA) Program policy that students attend all classes,
labs and other program activities. The faculty and administration realize that there may be RARE
instances when a necessary life event may require a student to miss a minimum number of classes.
Vacation requests will be denied.
1. As soon as the student is aware of a date needed to miss, fill out the below form and first
submit it to your advisor for his or her signature. Then, submit the form to all faculty
members whose class you will miss on that date.
2. When you meet with your advisor and faculty members, discuss with them the need for
absence as well as assignments that will be missed and will need to be turned in PRIOR to
the absence occurring.
3. This form is due AT LEAST ONE MONTH prior to the requested absence.
STUDENT’S NAME (print)
DATE/S OF REQUESTED ABSENCE DATE OF FORM COMPLETION
I understand that by submitting this form, my requested absence is not excused. After all the
appropriate signatures are acquired, please submit this form to the Program Director for review. The
Program Director will have one week to return a decision to the student as there may be need for
consideration with the chair of the Student Progress Committee or additional faculty members.
STUDENT’S SIGNATURE DATE
ADVISOR’S SIGNATURE DATE
Class missing: PAS Faculty Signature:
Class missing: PAS Faculty Signature:
Class missing: PAS Faculty Signature:
Class missing: PAS Faculty Signature:
Program Director Approves Program Director Disapproves
PROGRAM DIRECTOR’S SIGNATURE DATE
Appendix 1.
Authorization for Release of Information for Promotional Purposes
I voluntarily give my permission for the following information to be used or disclosed by the Marshall
University Physician Assistant (MUPA) Program. Check all those that do apply.
Photographs or video recording of me while I am on the premises of the Marshall University
Physician Assistant Program
Other information described here:
The information will be used or disclosed by Marshall University Physician Assistant Program for news
stories, articles, publications, brochures, journal publications, newsletters, advertisements, promotional
videos, social media posts, website-related uses and/or other public relations purposes. The MUPA
Program may disclose the information to any news television media, unless otherwise specified below:
I acknowledge that I am waiving my rights to confidentiality of the above information by signing this
authorization. I understand once materials are released to the media, the MUPA Program has no further
control over their use or disclosure. I also understand that once information is released in any form, it
might be re-released and no longer protected by federal student privacy rules.
I understand that I am not required to sign this authorization. I understand that I may revoke this
authorization at any time. To do that, I must say so in writing and give or send it to the MUPA Program
at 1542 Spring Valley Drive, Huntington, WV 25704. I understand the revocation will not apply to
information that had already been released while the authorization was in effect.
This authorization will be in effect until further notice.
_______________________
STUDENT’S NAME (print) DATE
STUDENT’S SIGNATURE
ADDRESS
EMAIL CELL PHONE NUMBER
_______________________
NAME of WITNESS (print)
SIGNATURE OF WITNESS DATE
FOR STAFF USE ONLY:
Student’s printed name: Location: _________________ Date:
Story or project:________________________ Photographed by:____________________________
Your assistance is extremely helpful with generating goodwill and increasing visibility of the Marshall
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Appendix 2.
MUPA Program Policy No. 23 – Student Grievances and Allegations of
Harassment
The link to Marshall University’s policy regarding “Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Harassment,
Sexual & Domestic Misconduct, Stalking, and Retaliation” is listed on the Board of Governor Policies’
page https://www.marshall.edu/board/board-of-governors-policies/. It is policy MUBOG GA-1. It is also
stated as follows.
MARSHALL UNIVERSITY BOARD OF GOVERNORS
Policy No. GA-1
DISCRIMINATION, HARASSMENT, SEXUAL HARASSMENT, SEXUAL & DOMESTIC MISCONDUCT,
STALKING, AND RETALIATION POLICY – INCLUDING TITLE IX
Section 1: General.
1.1 Scope & Purpose: Marshall University (“University”) is committed to fostering a diverse and
inclusive culture by promoting diversity, inclusion, equality, intercultural and intercommunity
outreach. Accordingly, the University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national
origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, marital or family status, pregnancy, veteran
status, service in the uniformed services (as defined in state and federal law), religion, creed,
sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, or gender expression in the
administration of any of its educational programs, activities, or with respect to admission or
employment. This Policy sets forth how discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment, sexual
and domestic misconduct, certain consensual relationships, stalking, and retaliation will be
addressed by Marshall University.
1.2 Authority: W. Va. Code §§ 18B-1-6, 18B-2A-4; Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964,
42 U.S.C. §§ 2000e to 2000e-17; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, 20 U.S.C.
§ 1681; the West Virginia Human Rights Act, W. Va. Code §§ 5-11-1 to -20; the Campus Sexual
Violence Elimination Act (“Clery Act”), 20 U.S.C. §1092, and the Violence Against Women Act
(“VAWA”) of 1994, 42 U.S.C. §13925.
1.3 Effective Date: August 1, 2022
1.4 Revision History: Originally replaced Board of Trustees Series No. 9 which was transferred by the
Higher Education Policy Commission to the institutional boards of governors. This
policy was previously numbered as MUBOG Policy No. 5,” amended again on April 27,
2016, and title changed to “Policy Regarding Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual
Harassment, Sexual & Domestic Misconduct, Stalking, and Retaliation,” which was
amended effective February 22, 2017. Due to changes in the federal guidelines this policy
was originally became effective on August 14, 2020, by Marshall University Executive
Order of the President. Thereafter, it was passed at the August 27, 2020, meeting of the
MUBOG, and became effective November 18, 2020. Additional updates were made to
comply with federal law those changes became effective August 1, 2022.
Appendix 2.
Section 2: General Definitions.
2.1 “Actual Knowledge” means notice of sexual harassment or other prohibited conduct or
allegations of sexual harassment or other prohibited conduct to the University’s Title IX
Coordinator or any official of the University who has authority to institute corrective
measures on behalf of the University. Imputation of knowledge based solely on vicarious
liability or constructive notice is insufficient to constitute actual knowledge. This standard is not
met when the only official of the University with actual knowledge is the Respondent.
The mere ability or obligation to report sexual harassment or to inform a student about how
to report sexual harassment, or having been trained to do so, does not qualify an individual
as one who has authority to institute corrective measures on behalf of the University.
‘‘Notice’’ as used in this paragraph includes, but is not limited to, a report of sexual
harassment to the Title IX Coordinator.
2.2 “Complainant” means, for purposes of this Policy, an individual who is alleged to be the
victim of conduct that could constitute sexual harassment (under Title IX) or other
prohibited conduct that is reported to the University. Provided that, where the Title IX
Coordinator signs a formal complaint, the Title IX Coordinator is not a Complainant or
otherwise a party under this part or under Grievance Procedures.
2.3 “ Reporter” means, for purposes of this Policy, any individual that makes or files a complaint
about prohibited conduct under this Policy. The Reporter may be the Complainant, any
other person, or the University.
2.4 “Respondent” means, for purposes of this Policy, an individual who has been reported to be
the perpetrator of conduct prohibited by Section 3. Any “individual” can be a Respondent,
whether such individual is a student, faculty member, another employee of the University,
or other person with or without any affiliation with the University.
2.5 “Member of the University Community,” for purposes of this Policy only, means an
individual engaged in any University activity or program, whether on or off campus, or any
individual lawfully on University property, including, but not limited to, any person who is
a student, staff, faculty member, other University official, or a visitor.
2.6 “Student” means, for purposes of this Policy, an individual subject to the Marshall
University Board of Governors Policy SA-3, The Code of Student Rights and
Responsibilities.
2.7 “Consensual Relationship” means a mutually acceptable romantic, dating, or sexual
relationship between individuals.
2.8 “Education Program or Activity” includes, for purposes of this Policy, locations, events, or
circumstances over which the University exercised substantial control over both Respondent
and the Complainant and the context in which the prohibited conduct occurs, and also
included any building owned or controlled by a student organization that is officially
recognized by a postsecondary institution.
Appendix 2.
Section 3: Defining and Recognizing Prohibited Conduct.
3.1. General. The University prohibits Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Harassment, Sexual
Misconduct, Domestic Misconduct, Stalking, and Retaliation as defined in this Policy
(collectively referred to as “prohibited conduct”) by or against any member of the University
community.
3.1.1 Jurisdiction.
3.1.1.1. – Jurisdiction for Title IX Complaints.
The University will address prohibited “Sexual Harassment” in its programs and activities,
including locations, events or circumstances over which the University exercises substantial
control over both the Respondent and the Complainant and the context in which the alleged
sexual harassment occurs. Locations include buildings owned or controlled by officially
recognized student organizations.
Jurisdiction for Title IX Complaints does not apply if:
(1) the conduct alleged in the formal complaint would not constitute sexual
harassment as defined in this policy, even if proved;
(2) the conduct alleged did not occur in the University’s education program or activity;
or
(3) the conduct alleged did not occur against a person in the United States.
If any of the above do not apply, the University must dismiss the formal complaint with
regard to that conduct for the purposes of sexual harassment under Title IX; however, such
dismissal does not preclude action under another provision of the University’s policies or
procedures. Off-campus conduct at private residences, businesses, events, or other
locations outside of the University’s substantial control do not fall under the University’s
jurisdiction for Title IX Complaints.
3.1.1.2. – Jurisdiction for Non-Title IX Complaints.
This prohibition applies to other conduct for which jurisdiction under Title IX does not apply
that occurs on University premises or in connection with a University education program or
activity; off-campus conduct that unreasonably interferes with the educational or orderly
operation of the University community, its mission, or its objectives as determined by a
reasonable person; any off campus conduct that, in light of all of the facts and
circumstances, would endanger the health and safety of the University community. As a
result, any individual found to have committed these acts against another is subject to
appropriate disciplinary action.
Appendix 2.
3.2 Discrimination.
3.2.1 “Discrimination” means conduct that is based upon an individual’s race, color, national
origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, marital or family status, pregnancy, veteran
status, service in the uniformed services (as defined in state and federal law), religion, creed,
sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, or gender expression and excludes
an individual from participation, denies the individual the benefits of, treats the individual
differently or otherwise adversely affects a term or condition of an individual’s employment,
education, living environment or participation in a University program or activity. This includes
failing to provide reasonable accommodation, consistent with state and federal law, to persons
with disabilities. It does not, however, include programs or activities specifically exempt by law.
See, e.g., 20 U.S.C. § 1681(a) (2015).
3.3 Harassment and Sexual Harassment.
3.3.1 “Harassment” means conduct that creates a hostile environment, as defined below, and is
based upon an individual’s race, color, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental
disability, marital or family status, pregnancy, veteran status, service in the uniformed
services (as defined in state and federal law), religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, genetic
information, gender identity, or gender expression. Harassment may take various forms,
including, but not limited to, name-calling, graphic or written statements (including the use
of social media, text messages, e- mail, or other similar forms), or other conduct that may
be physically threatening, harmful, or humiliating. Harassment does not necessarily have to
include intent to harm, be directed at a specific target, or involve repeated incidents.
3.3.2 “Hostile Environment” means a situation where an individual is subjected to any conduct
based on the reasons set forth in Section 3.3.1 and that conduct is sufficiently severe or
pervasive, or so objectively offensive, so as to unreasonably interfere with an individual’s
educational experience, work or academic performance or deny or limit the individual’s
ability to participate in or benefit from the University’s programs, services, opportunities,
or activities.
A hostile environment can be created by anyone involved in a University program or
activity (e.g., administrators, faculty members, students, and even campus guests). Mere
offensiveness is not enough to create a hostile environment. Although repeated incidents
increase the likelihood that harassment has created a hostile environment, a serious incident,
even if isolated, can be sufficient to create a hostile environment.
In determining whether harassment has created a hostile environment, consideration will be
made not only as to whether the conduct was unwelcomed to the person who feels harassed,
but also whether a reasonable person in a similar situation would have perceived the conduct
as sufficiently severe or pervasive, or objectively offensive. Also, the following factors will
be considered:
3.3.2.1 The degree to which the conduct affected one or more students’ education or
individual’s employment;
3.3.2.2 The nature, scope, frequency, duration, and location of incident or
incidents;
3.3.2.3 The identity, number, and relationships of persons involved; and
3.3.2.4 The nature of higher education.
Appendix 2.
3.3.3 In addition to hostile environment harassment, sex-based harassment includes sexual
harassment and non-sexual harassment based on stereotypical notions of what is
female/feminine versus male/masculine behavior or nonconformity with gender stereotypes.
3.3.4 “Title IX Sexual Harassment” means conduct on the basis of sex that satisfies one or more
of the following:
3.3.4.1 An employee of the University conditioning the provision of aid, benefit, or
service of the University on an individual’s participation in unwelcome sexual
conduct (i.e., quid pro quo); or
3.3.4.2 Unwelcome conduct determined by a reasonable person to be so severe,
pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal
access to the University’s education program or activity; or
3.3.4.3 “Sexual assault” as defined in the Clery Act – 20 U.S.C. 1092(f)(6)(A)(v),
“dating violence” as defined in VAWA 34 U.S.C. 12291(a)(8), or “stalking”
as defined in VAWA 34 U.S.C. 1229(a)(30).
3.3.5 Comments or communications may be verbal, written, or electronic. Behavior does not
need to be directed at or to a specific individual in order to constitute sexual harassment
but may consist of generalized unwelcome and inappropriate comments based on sex or
gender stereotypes.
3.3.6 Determination of whether alleged conduct constitutes sexual harassment requires
consideration of all the circumstances, including the context in which the alleged incidents
occurred.
3.4 Sexual Misconduct.
3.4.1 “Sexual Misconduct” means any act of a sexual nature perpetrated against an individual
without effective consent or when an individual is unable to freely give consent. Effective
consent is defined in 3.4.4 of this Policy. Sexual misconduct includes, but it not limited to:
3.4.1.1 Attempted or completed intercourse or penetration (anal, oral or vaginal),
however slight, with any body part or any object, by one person upon another person,
without effective Consent. This includes vaginal penetration by a penis, object, tongue or
finger; anal penetration by a penis, object, tongue or finger; and oral copulation
(mouth to genital contact or genital to mouth contact).
3.4.1.2 Sexual touching (including disrobing or exposure), however slight, with any body
part or any object, by one person upon another person, without effective consent.
Sexual touching includes any contact with the breasts, buttocks, groin, or genitals,
or touching another with any of these body parts, or making another touch you or
themselves with or on any of these body parts, when such touching would be reasonably
and objectively offensive.
3.4.2 “Sexual Assault” means an offense that meets the definition of rape, sodomy, sexual
assault with an object, fondling, incest, or statutory rape as used in the FBI’s Uniform
Crime Reporting system. A sex offense is any act directed against another person, without
the consent of the victim, including instances where the victim is incapable of giving
consent.
Appendix 2.
3.4.2.1 “Rape” means the carnal knowledge of a person, without the consent of the
victim, including instances where the victim is unable to give consent because of his/her
age or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.
3.4.2.1.1 Rape happens regardless of the age of the victim if the victim did not consent or
if the victim was incapable of giving consent. If the victim was under the statutory age of
consent, then it is statutory rape irrespective of whether the victim consented
3.4.2.1.2 Carnal knowledge is defined as the act of an individual having sexual bodily
connections, however slight, with another.
3.4.2.1.3 In cases where several offenders rape one person, each offender will be
investigated, and information will be reported for each offender.
3.4.2.2 “Sodomy” means oral or anal intercourse with another person, without the
consent of the victim, including instances where the victim is unable to give consent
because of his/her age or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental or physical
incapacity.
3.4.2.3 “Sexual Assault with An Object” means using an object or instrument to unlawfully
penetrate, however slightly, the genital or anal opening of the body of another person,
without the consent of the victim, including instances where the victim is unable to give
consent because of his/her age or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental or
physical incapacity.
3.4.2.3.1 An “object” or “instrument” is anything used by the offender other
than the offender’s genitalia, e.g., a finger, bottle, handgun, stick.
3.4.2.4 “Fondling” means the touching of the private body parts of another person for the
purpose of sexual gratification, without the consent of the victim, including instances
where the victim is unable to give consent because of his/her age or because of his/her
temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.
3.4.2.5 “Incest” means sexual intercourse between persons who are related to each other
within the degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by law in West Virginia.
3.4.2.6 “Statutory Rape” means sexual intercourse with a person who is under the
statutory age of consent in West Virginia (Age 16).
3.4.3 “Sexual Intimidation” means threatening to commit a sexual act upon another person,
stalking, cyber-stalking, or engaging in indecent exposure
3.4.4 “Consent” or “Effective Consent” means informed, freely and actively given, mutually
understandable words or actions, which indicate a willingness to participate in mutually agreed
upon sexual activity. In the absence of mutually understandable words or actions it is the
responsibility of the initiator, that is, the person who wants to engage in the specific sexual
activity, to make sure that they have consent from their partner(s). Consent is mutually
understandable when a reasonable person would consider the words or actions of the parties to
have manifested a mutually understandable agreement between them to do the same act, in
the same way, at the same time, with each other. Relying solely upon non-verbal
communication can lead to miscommunication. It is important not to make assumptions. If
confusion or ambiguity on the issue of consent arises anytime during the sexual interaction, it is
important the initiator stop and verbally clarify the other individual’s willingness to continue.
Appendix 2.
3.4.4.1 Consent may not be inferred from silence, passivity, or lack of active resistance
alone.
3.4.4.2 A current or previous dating or sexual relationship (or the existence of such a
relationship with anyone else) may not, in itself, be taken to imply consent.
3.4.4.3 Consent cannot be implied or inferred by attire, or from purchases made such as,
the buying of dinner or the spending of money on a date.
3.4.4.4 Consent to one type of sexual act may not, in itself, be taken to imply consent to
another type of sexual act.
3.4.4.5 Consent expires. Consent lasts for a reasonable time, depending on the
circumstances.
3.4.4.6 Consent to sexual activity may be withdrawn at any time, as long as the
withdrawal is communicated clearly; upon clear communication, all sexual activity must
cease.
3.4.4.7 Consent which is obtained by use of deception, fraud or force, whether that force
is physical force, threats, intimidation, or coercion, is ineffective consent. Intimidation or
coercion is determined by reference to the reasonable perception of a person found in the
same or similar circumstances.
3.4.4.8 Consent may never be given by:
3.4.4.8.1 Minors under the age of 16
3.4.4.8.2 Mentally disabled persons
3.4.4.8.3 Persons who are incapacitated as a result of alcohol or other drugs or
who are unconscious or otherwise physically helpless. Incapacitation means
being in a state where a person lacks the capacity to appreciate the nature of
given consent to participate in sexual activity.
3.4.4.9 One may not engage in sexual activity with another whom one knows, or
should reasonably have known, is incapacitated as a result of alcohol or other
drugs.
3.4.4.10 The use of alcohol or other drugs can have unintended consequences.
Alcohol or other drugs can lower inhibitions and create an atmosphere of
confusion over whether consent is freely and effectively given. The perspective
of a reasonable person will be the basis for determining whether one should
have known about the impact of the use of alcohol or drugs on another’s ability
to give consent. Being intoxicated or high does not diminish one’s responsibility
to obtain consent and is never an excuse for sexual misconduct.
3.4.5 “Forcible Compulsion” means (a) physical force that overcomes such earnest
resistance as might reasonably be expected under the circumstances; or (b) threat or
intimidation, expressed or implied, placing a person in fear of immediate death or bodily
injury to oneself or another person or in fear that oneself or another person will be
kidnapped.
Appendix 2.
3.4.6 “Sexual Exploitation” means taking non-consensual, unjust or abusive sexual
advantage of another, for one’s own advantage or benefit; or to benefit or advantage
anyone other than the one being exploited. Sexual exploitation encompasses a wide range
of behaviors which may include, but are not limited to:
3.4.6.1 Inducing incapacitation with the intent to rape or sexually assault a student or
other individual;
3.4.6.2 Non-consensual video or audio-recording of sexual activity;
3.4.6.3 Allowing others to observe a personal act of consensual sex without
knowledge or consent of the partner;
3.4.6.4 Engaging in voyeurism;
3.4.6.5 Knowingly transmitting a sexually transmitted disease, including HIV, to a
student or other individual;
3.4.6.6 Prostituting a student or other individual (e.g. -personally gaining money,
privilege, or power from the sexual activities of another individual)
3.5 Domestic Misconduct.
3.5.1. “Domestic Misconduct” means “Domestic Violence” and “Dating Violence” as
defined below.
3.5.2 “Domestic Violence” means a felony or misdemeanor crime of violence committed
by a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the alleged victim, by a person with
whom the alleged victim shares a child in common, by a person who is cohabitating with
or who has cohabitated with the alleged victim as a spouse, by a person similarly
situated to a spouse of the alleged victim under the domestic or family laws of the State
of West Virginia, by any other person against an adult or youth victim who is protected
from that person’s acts under the domestic or family violence laws of the State of West
Virginia. The term spouse or intimate partner of the victim includes a person who is or
has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim, as
determined by the length of the relationship, the type of the relationship, and the
frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship.
“Domestic Violence” under the laws of the State of West Virginia, which is also
prohibited by this Policy, means: (i) unlawfully and intentionally making physical contact
of an insulting or provoking nature with one’s family or household member(s); (ii)
unlawfully and intentionally causing physical harm to one’s family or household
member(s); (iii) unlawfully attempting to commit a violent injury against one’s family or
household member(s); or (iv) unlawfully committing an act which places one’s family or
household member(s) in reasonable apprehension of immediately receiving a violent
injury.
For purposes of this subsection, “family or household members” means persons who:
(1) are or were married to each other; (2) are or were living together as spouses; (3) are
or were sexual or intimate partners; (4) are or were dating: provided, that a casual
acquaintance or ordinary fraternization between persons in a business or social context
does not establish a dating relationship; (5) are or were residing together in the same
household; (6) have a child in common regardless of whether they have ever married or
lived together; or (7) have the relationships described in W. Va. Code § 48-27-204.
Appendix 2.
3.5.3 “Dating Violence” means violence committed by a person:
3.5.3.1 who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate
nature with the victim; and
3.5.3.2 where the existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on
a consideration of the following factors:
3.5.3.2.1 the length of the relationship;
3.5.3.2.2 the type of relationship; and
3.5.3.2.3 the frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the
relationship.
3.5.3.3 The view of the Complainant shall generally be controlling in
determining whether such a relationship existed. Dating violence includes, but is
not limited to, sexual or physical abuse or the threat of such abuse. Dating
violence, for purposes of this Policy, does not include emotional abuse.
3.6 “Stalking” means engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would
cause a reasonable person to:
3.6.1 Fear for the person’s safety or the safety of others; or
3.6.2 Suffer substantial emotional distress.
3.6.3 For the purposes of this definition:
3.6.3.1 “Course of conduct” means two or more acts, including, but not limited
to, acts in which the stalker directly, indirectly, or through third parties, by any
action, method, device, or means, follows, monitors, observes, surveils,
threatens, or communicates to or about a person, or interferes with a person’s
property.
3.6.3.2 “Reasonable person” means a reasonable person under similar
circumstances and with similar identities to the victim.
3.6.3.3 “Substantial emotional distress” means significant mental suffering or
anguish that may, but does not necessarily, require medical or other
professional treatment or counseling.
3.7 Consequences & Corrective Action.
Violators of this Policy are subject to appropriate disciplinary action that may include
sanctions such as warning, suspension, or discharge of an employee, suspension, or
expulsion of a student in accord with the Student Code of Conduct, or other action
depending on the particular circumstances. In addition, prohibited conduct that constitutes
a criminal law violation will be referred to the appropriate authorities for prosecution.
Furthermore, although conduct may not violate this Policy, it may still be prohibited by the
University under a different policy or standard of behavior. Accordingly, in such cases, the
University reserves the ability to take any necessary action.
Appendix 2.
3.8 Consensual Relationships.
Although consensual relationships are within the purview of individual privacy, those
engaging in such relationships that occur between persons in inherently unequal and
closely related positions at the University or employees within the same reporting line,
including those between supervisors and supervisees, must remain aware that such
relationships could lead to circumstances that result in harassment or sexual or domestic
misconduct.
In these specific cases of consensual relationships, the individuals shall notify their
immediate supervisor or other appropriate administrator. The supervisor or administrator
shall be responsible for making arrangements to eliminate or to mitigate any conflict of
interest or other legitimate occupational interest related to employment, the
consequences of which might prove detrimental to the University or to either party in the
relationship. In some instances, if no suitable way to eliminate or mitigate the conflict is
reasonably feasible, one or both individuals may be separated from employment at the
University.
It is important to note that these types of consensual relationships also may result in a
hostile or offensive environment affecting other employees or students. For example,
others may perceive a person involved in the consensual relationship as receiving favorable
treatment in employment or educational decisions and actions.
3.9 Prohibited Relationships with Students.
Staff Members, Faculty Members, Instructors, Coaches, or other employees are prohibited
from engaging in a consensual relationship with a student whom one may instruct,
evaluate, supervise, instruct, advise, or coach. Where there is a pre-existing consensual
relationship, the staff, faculty, instructor, or coach shall forthwith notify one’s immediate
supervisor or other appropriate administrator. The supervisor or other appropriate
administrator shall be responsible for making arrangements to eliminate or to mitigate any
conflict, the consequences of which might prove detrimental to the University or to either
party in the relationship.
Although Marshall University cannot prohibit consensual relationships between employees
and students, whom they do not instruct, evaluate, supervise, advise, or coach, the
University strongly discourages such relationships. In addition, nothing contained in this
Policy would otherwise prohibit a complaint being made by either.
3.10 Disability Complaint Procedures
Marshall University does not discriminate or permit discrimination on the basis of
disability in matters of admissions, employment, housing, or services or in the educational
programs or activities it operates. The Director of Disability Services has been designated
as the Section 504 Coordinator and coordinates compliance with the nondiscrimination
requirements of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA) and applicable federal and state regulations.
Appendix 2.
Marshall University adopts MUBOG Policy No. GA-1 as its ADA/Section 504 complaint
procedures to provide prompt, equitable and impartial resolution of complaints alleging
any action prohibited by the ADA or Section 504. This policy applies to complaints of
discrimination or harassment on the basis of disability by staff, faculty, students, or
applicants for both University employment and academic admission, vendors, contractors,
and third parties.
These rules will be construed to protect the substantive rights of interested persons, meet
appropriate due process standards, and assure that Marshall University complies with the
ADA, Section 504, and their implementing regulations.
The Office of Disability Services will maintain the files and records relating to complaints
filed under this policy and other procedures.
Marshall University Office of Disability Services
Prichard Hall, Room 117
Phone: 304-696-2467
Fax: 304-696-2288
Section 4: Reports of Misconduct and Complaints.
4.1 Coordinator.
The President or the President’s designee shall appoint an administrator to act as the
University’s Coordinator to handle all reports of prohibited conduct and complaints under this
Policy, including acting as the University’s Title IX Coordinator. The Coordinator will oversee all
complaints filed under this Policy generally and identify and address any patterns or systemic
problems that arise during the review of such complaints. The Coordinator is further responsible
for coordination of training, education, communications, and administration of complaint
procedures for faculty, staff, students, and other members of the University community. The
Coordinator may also appoint deputy coordinators to assist the University in furthering this
policy.
Appendix 2.
4.2 Reporting.
Any member of the University community who believes someone has been subject to any
of the prohibited conduct set forth in Section 3, or they have witnessed or is aware of such
prohibited conduct, is encouraged to report this information.
4.2.1 All Campus Security Authorities must report incidents of prohibited conduct to the
University's Title IX Coordinator at:
Title IX Coordinator
Office of Equity Programs
Old Main 324
One John Marshall Drive
Huntington, WV 25755
Phone: 304-696-2597 | Fax: 304-696-6844
4.2.2 “Campus Security Authority” means an official of an institution who has significant
responsibility for student and campus activities, including, but not limited to, student
housing, student discipline, and campus judicial proceedings. For example, a dean of students
who oversees student housing, a student center, or student extra-curricular activities, has
significant responsibility for student and campus activities. Similarly, a director of athletics,
team coach, and faculty advisor to a student group also have significant responsibility for
student and campus activities. A single teaching faculty member is unlikely to have
significant responsibility for student and campus activities, except when serving as an advisor to
a student group. A physician in a campus health center or a counselor in a counseling center
whose only responsibility is to provide care to students are unlikely to have significant
responsibility for student and campus activities. Also, clerical staff are unlikely to have
significant responsibility for student and campus activities.
4.2.3 Confidential resources are available for members of the University community who have
been subject to prohibited conduct. For a more detailed list of confidential resources
available to members of the University community, please see:
Marshall University Office of Equity Programs/Title IX Staff
Marshall University Counseling Center Staff
Marshall University Women’s & Gender Center Staff
Marshall University Violence Prevention and Response Program Staff
Marshall University Psychology Clinic Staff
Appendix 2.
4.2.4 The U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) enforces, among other
statutes, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. Title IX protects people from
discrimination based on sex in education programs or activities that receive Federal financial
assistant. A Complainant may choose to make a report to the OCR at any time by contacting:
Philadelphia Office
Office of Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education
The Wanamaker Building
100 Penn Square East, Suite 515
Philadelphia, PA 19107-3323
Telephone: 215-656-8541
FAX: 215-656-8605; TDD: 800-877-8339
Email: [email protected]
http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/complaintintro.html
4.3 Filing a Complaint.
Any member of the University community who believes one has been subject to, has
witnessed, or is aware of any of the prohibited conduct set forth in Section 3 may file a
complaint in any manner set forth in the applicable procedure.
4.4 Procedure for Responding to Complaints.
The President or the President’s designee(s) shall formulate a complaint procedure to
investigate and respond to all complaints regarding alleged misconduct in violation of this
Policy. In all cases, complaints will be handled in such a manner to achieve a prompt and
equitable resolution. Further, the University will take the appropriate steps to end the
misconduct, prevent any further misconduct or retaliation, remedy the effects of
misconduct, and eliminate any hostile environment that has been created.
Any investigation resulting from a complaint will be separate from and in addition to any
criminal investigation that may result.
Appendix 2.
4.5 Disclosure and Confidentiality.
The University respects the privacy of those reporting prohibited conduct and will endeavor
to respect requests for confidentiality to the extent permissible by law. However, the
University has certain legal obligations to address this conduct and to prevent its recurrence
and, as a result, cannot guarantee confidentiality to a complainant in all cases. In
determining whether, an individual’s request for confidentiality that could preclude a
meaningful investigation or potential discipline of the alleged perpetrator, the University
may consider a range of factors, including: whether there have been other sexual violence
complaints about the same alleged perpetrator; whether the alleged perpetrator has a history
of arrests or records from a prior school indicating a history of violence; whether the alleged
perpetrator threatened further sexual violence or other violence against the complainant or
others; whether the sexual violence was committed by multiple perpetrators; whether the
complainant’s report or allegation reveals a pattern of perpetration (e.g., via illicit use of
drugs or alcohol) at a given location or by a particular group; whether the sexual violence
was perpetrated with a weapon; the age of the complainant subject to the sexual violence;
and whether the University possesses other means to obtain relevant evidence (e.g., security
cameras or personnel, physical evidence). Pursuant to Title IX Regulations, the University
must keep confidential the identity of any individual who has made a report or complaint
of sex discrimination, including any individual who has made a report or filed a formal
complaint of sexual harassment, any complainant, any individual who has been reported to
be the perpetrator of sex discrimination, any respondent, and any witness, except as may be
permitted by the FERPA statute, 20 U.S.C. 1232g, or FERPA regulations, 34 CFR part 99,
or as required by law, or to carry out the purposes of 34 CFR part 106, including the conduct
of any investigation, hearing, or judicial proceeding arising thereunder. That said, as set
forth in Section 4.2.3., there are places where a victim can receive confidential services and
the complaint procedure must identify clearly additional resources, if any, where a victim
can go to receive such services without having to risk confidentiality.
4.6 Dishonest or Frivolous Complaints.
If a party is found to have intentionally or maliciously been dishonest, reckless, or frivolous
in making allegations of a violation under this Policy, that party shall be subject to
appropriate disciplinary action.
Appendix 2.
Section 5: Retaliation Prohibited.
5.1 The University or other person may not intimidate, threaten, coerce, or discriminate against
any individual for the purpose of interfering with any right or privilege secured by Title IX or this
part, or because the individual has made a report or complaint, testified, assisted, or
participated or refused to participate in any manner in an investigation, proceeding, or hearing
under this part. Intimidation, threats, coercion, or discrimination, including charges against an
individual for code of conduct violations that do not involve sex discrimination or sexual
harassment, but arise out of the same facts or circumstances as a report or complaint of sex
discrimination, or a report or formal complaint of sexual harassment, for the purpose of
interfering with any right or privilege secured by Title IX or its implementing regulations,
constitutes retaliation. Complaints alleging retaliation may be filed according
to the grievance procedures for sex discrimination.
5.2. The exercise of rights protected under the First Amendment does not constitute retaliation
prohibited under paragraph 5.1 of this section.
5.3 Charging an individual with a code of conduct violation for making a materially false
statement in bad faith in the course of a grievance proceeding under this part does not
constitute retaliation prohibited under paragraph 5.1, provided, however, that a
determination regarding responsibility, alone, is not sufficient to conclude that any party
made a materially false statement in bad faith.
Title IX Complaints
Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972 is a federal law that states: “No person in the United
States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be
subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial
assistance.” Marshall University takes complaints of prohibited conduct very seriously. Marshall has a
Director and Title IX Coordinator who may be contacted by phone at 304-696-2597 or by email at
[email protected]. For more information on Title IX policy, please refer to the following website:
https://www.marshall.edu/eeoaa/title-ix.
