Emphasis is placed on the psychosocial aspects of common medical problems. In addition to successful completion of the preclinical and clinical phases of the program, the PA student must also complete a master s research project. Four weeks will be allotted within the clinical training period for the student to complete a literature review, then develop and defend an individually crafted research proposal. At the end of the clinical year, students are required to complete a four- week final preceptorship of their choosing which may serve as a bridge to employment . A full spectrum of potential elective rotations are available in medical, surgical and pediatric specialties.
Students choose two electives, each four weeks in length, in areas of vocational interest.
The Duke Physician Assistant Program is fortunate to be endowed with a variety of clinical training sites and elective topics from rural primary care to tertiary care medical centers.