Program Mission, Goals & Outcomes
About the Program
The Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Kean University prepares future physician assistants (PAs) to become clinically competent, compassionate, and reflective healthcare professionals. Through a rigorous curriculum that integrates biomedical sciences, clinical medicine, simulation, and supervised clinical practice experiences, students develop the knowledge, skills, and professional behaviors necessary to provide high-quality, patient-centered care.
Physician assistants are licensed medical professionals who diagnose illness, develop and manage treatment plans, prescribe medications, and work collaboratively with physicians and other members of the healthcare team. PAs practice in a wide variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, community health centers, and specialty practices, helping to improve access to quality healthcare for diverse patient populations.
Consistent with the program's mission, the Kean University Physician Assistant Studies Program emphasizes evidence-based practice, ethical decision-making, critical thinking, and lifelong learning. Graduates are prepared to serve diverse communities with professionalism, cultural humility, and a commitment to improving the health and well-being of the patients and populations they serve.
Mission
The Kean University Physician Assistant Program prepares clinically competent, compassionate, and reflective physician assistants to practice evidence-based and patient-centered care to diverse communities. Graduates are trained to think critically, practice ethically, and engage in lifelong learning across evolving healthcare environments.
Vision
The Kean University Physician Assistant Program strives to be a leader in PA education through fostering academic excellence, incorporating innovative research relevant to PA education, and graduating clinicians who are prepared to meet the healthcare needs of diverse populations.
Program Goals
Goal 1
Provide a structured curriculum that produces graduates who demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and behaviors necessary for competent physician assistant practice.
Goal 2
Maintain a supportive and inclusive learning environment that promotes empathy, professionalism, reflective practice, and respect for justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Goal 3
Promote interprofessional collaboration and partnerships within the university and the community to advance high-quality, patient-centered healthcare.
Program Outcomes (A3.11b,c,i)
The program evaluates achievement of its mission and goals through multiple outcome measures, including:
- Graduation rates
- PANCE first-time pass rates
- Clinical performance evaluations
- Summative assessments
- Graduate satisfaction surveys
- Interprofessional education participation
- Community engagement activities
Detailed program outcome data can be found in the below link: