PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE I

Catalog description

Professional Practice I is a foundational course focused on the development of professional identity, ethical reasoning, interprofessional collaboration, and personal wellness in physician assistant education. The course introduces students to the history, regulation, and professional responsibilities of the PA profession while emphasizing academic integrity, medical ethics, and effective teamwork. Through case-based learning, reflective practice, and applied activities, students examine public health, advocacy, and population health principles and develop skills in professional communication and conduct. The course also addresses clinician wellness, burnout prevention, and resilience strategies to support sustainable practice. By integrating ethical decision-making, systems awareness, and self-care, Professional Practice I establishes the professional foundation necessary for safe, compassionate, and effective clinical practice.