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Master of Physician Assistant Studies

Master of Physician Assistant Studies (PA)

Program At A Glance

7 semesters

Small class size

30 students in a cohort

Deep medical library resources

Access to rich and current medical library

Strong student support services

Tailored to meet the needs of all students

The Mercy College of Ohio’s Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) is a 118-credit hour, cohort-based program designed to provide a graduate-level learning experience that produces PA graduates who can provide competent, patient-centered medical care for diverse populations in a variety of clinical settings while also embracing service, scholarship, and leadership.

Located at the Mercy College Campus in Toledo, OH, the PA space features a dedicated PA classroom, laboratory, and student space as well as a suite of outpatient exam rooms. Other learning offerings include simulation laboratory, interprofessional education, Anatomage table as well as clinical skills laboratories.

The seven (7)-semester curriculum entails four (4) didactic and three (3) clinical semesters. Students will have seven (7) required Supervised Clinical Practice Experiences (SCPE) areas along with opportunities for elective experiences. Students are expected to participate in direct patient contact for 40-60 hours/week.

Class Size

The first cohort of 20 PA students (PAS) started May 2021, with clinicals August 2022 through beginning of August 2023. The second cohort of 25 PAS started May 2022. The third and subsequent cohorts are projected to be up to 30 PAS.

The PA Program does specify individuals through a Direct Entry pathway with up to approximately 15% of seats potentially reserved. Also, refer to the FAQ “How many seats are held for Direct Entry students?” for the current number of seats reserved.

Mercy College of Ohio Mission

Mercy College of Ohio, a Catholic institution with a focus on healthcare, educates and inspires students to lead and to serve in the global community.

Physician Assistant Program Mission

The Mercy College of Ohio PA program provides a graduate-level learning experience that produces PA graduates who can provide competent, patient-centered medical care for diverse populations in a variety of clinical settings while also embracing service, scholarship, and leadership.

Physician Assistant Program Vision

The Mercy College of Ohio PA program will be a premier graduate-level PA educational program in which its graduates contribute service, scholarship, and leadership to meet the medical care needs of the region, the State of Ohio, and the nation.

Accreditation Status

The ARC-PA has granted Accreditation-Provisional status to the Mercy College of Ohio Master of Physician Assistant Studies sponsored by Mercy College of Ohio.

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/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Accreditation-History-Mercy-College-OH.pdf

Licensure

The Mercy College of Ohio Master of Physician Assistant Studies Program is accredited by the ARC-PA and meets the educational standards mandated for program graduates to sit for the PANCE (Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam). This is a requirement for licensure in every state in which program graduates plan to work. Complete licensure requirements can vary from state to state.

All 50 states and the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands require a license to practice as a physician assistant. Licensure is required in each state in which a physician assistant practices and must be renewed on a regular basis, with a majority of states requiring continuing education as a requirement for renewal.


Mercy College of Ohio’s PA Program is ready to be flexible. In general, online course work is not an issue as it’s an accepted teaching pedagogy. Pass/Fail grades earning Pass will generally be acceptable for the pandemic affected semester(s) courses (e.g., those courses moved from graded to pass/fail after the course was in session). The Pass/Fail courses will be interpreted within the candidate’s existing GPA and other admissions data. The home-based GRE will be accepted. If a course is already offered online for a grade, a candidate should take the graded course. Our admissions open houses and interview sessions have moved to virtual offerings pending results of public health data and guidelines. Our Admissions Committee will be actively engaged in reviewing admissions files, reaching out to candidates for more information as needed, and making determinations guided by our current published criteria.

The program is 7 semesters. There will be 4 semesters of didactic coursework (in the classroom) and 3 semesters of clinical rotations (in the field).

Mercy College has developed local and national preceptor partnerships for clinical rotations. Rotations are six, and sometimes three weeks in length. Students must be prepared to be mobile during the clinical year.

The May 2021 cohort began with 20 seats, as approved by the ARC-PA. Accordingly, the plan is to increase cohort size, as listed below:

  • May 2022—25 seats
  • May 2023—30 seats

The PA Program does have a Direct Entry pathway. Projected seats reserved by entering Direct Entry cohort are as follows: May 2022 (Class of 2024) 4 seats and May 2023 (Class of 2025) 5 seats. Mercy College’s qualified undergraduate pre-PA track Biology majors completing the graduate admissions/CASPA application process will be offered an interview.

  • While currently there are no seats taken, the program reserves the right for direct admissions or articulation into the program. The following list shows the maximum potential reserve seats for direct entry:
  • May 2022 (Class of 2024) 4 seats
  • May 2023 (Class of 2025) 5 seats
  • The website will be updated regularly to keep CASPA applicants informed as to the reservation status of the potentially held seats.

Please visit Mercy College of Ohio's Bachelor of Science webpage.

No, Mercy College does not accept transfer credits from other PA programs. PA students who find themselves in that situation should apply as a new applicant and be sure to submit transcripts from PA school with their other transcripts.

The Admissions Committee reviews verified and completed applications in the order they are received. Applications will be reviewed and scored based on:

    • Academic achievement (Overall GPA, Prerequisite GPA, Academic Rigor)
    • GRE
    • Healthcare Discernment
    • Letters of Recommendation
    • Written and verbal Communication
    • Academic Misconduct, Healthcare Program Dismissal or Professional Misconduct

On a rolling basis:

  • Invitations to complete Altus Suite will be extended for applicants eligible to interview. This is used to further review and score an applicant.
    • Invitations will be extended for interviews after review of individual applications.
      • Applicants are encouraged to submit their application to CASPA as early as possible.
      • Applications will be reviewed in the order in which they are verified and completed, including Altus Suite.
      • Invited candidates will be required to participate in an interview to be considered for admission.
  • Yes, you will need to take the GRE.
  • The general test must be taken within the last 5 years.
  • The official scores must be sent to Mercy College of Ohio via GRE code 4751.
  • Preferred competitive quantitative score over 150
  • Preferred competitive combined verbal/quantitative score over 300
  • Analytical Writing GRE result of 3.5 or above

The PA-CAT is not an admissions requirement. The PA-CAT is a specialized test designed to measure applicant knowledge in key prerequisite science subjects typically required for PA school. For information about the PA-CAT and to schedule an exam, visit the website at www.PA-CAT.com. At this time, the GRE is still required, regardless of other testing completed.

The PA program does not utilize MCAT scores in its admissions process.

  • Fit within the mission and values of institution and PA program
  • Career discernment and passion for the PA profession
  • Strong science acumen
  • Robust interpersonal skills
  • Solid writing ability
  • Direct-patient care experience
  • Being able to speak to diverse breadth and depth professional and personal experiences

The MPAS program at Mercy College of Ohio does not offer any financial assistance for applicant fees, however, there are some outside resources that do offer help. Please see the links below.

CASPA’s Fee Waiver Program

PAEA Financial Resources

PA-CAT Financial Assistance

There is no secondary application for the Mercy College PA program, but there is an additional cost for Altus Suite (Casper/Snapshot). The Altus Suite (Casper/Snapshot) has an initial cost of $40, and $12 per score distribution.

Yes. Applicants with international transcripts are required to submit their official transcripts to World Education Services (WES) for a course-by-course level evaluation and calculated cumulative grade point average (GPA). Contact WES at www.wes.org.

Once Mercy College receives the course-by-course level evaluation from WES, the Admissions Committee will decide if the degree meets the criteria for the PA program. Contact WES at www.wes.org.

If you believe you’ve taken a class and it is not clear on your transcript that it meets criteria, work with the Assistant Director of Admissions and PA Admissions Committee to provide proper documentation for review. However, the PA program does not allow substitutions for prerequisites or relevant courses. An example of this would be that the PA program will not accept Molecular biology for Microbiology or Organic Chemistry II with lab for Biochemistry.

The Mercy College of Ohio PA Program requires discernment into the PA profession. Direct patient care roles provide the best opportunity for this, but the Admissions Committee will review any health-related experience during the application process.

It is recommended to retake medical science courses such as physiology, biochemistry, or genetics, as these courses are needed to prepare you for success in the PA program. If your coursework is older than 7 years, but you utilize these sciences daily in your work, this may be sufficient for the program. Please contact paprogram@mercycollege.edu to ask your specific questions regarding this.

Yes. Eligible applicants will receive notification from the program to take Altus Suite (Casper/Snapshot) as part of the interview process. Altus Suite (Casper/Snapshot) has an initial cost of $40, and $12 per score distribution.

Click here to review the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, specifically for Physician Assistants.

Click here for scholarship opportunities through the PA Foundation.

You will earn a Master of Physician Assistant Studies.

No, this is a full-time academic program.

Due to the rigorous academics, time-intensive studies, and clinical nature of this program, employment of any kind is discouraged.

Many of the state Physician Assistant organizations maintain a list of PA-Cs who volunteer their time shadowing interested students. You can find the Ohio Association of Physician Assistants here and search for others.

Please see Mercy College's Title IX information.

Please see Mercy College's diversity and inclusion information.

Please see the Mercy College's safety information.

  • Earning a degree allows you to sit for the Physician Assistant National Certification Examination (PANCE), which is issued by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). You will need to pass the PANCE to earn your certification.
  • Completion of a PA program does not automatically guarantee that the graduate can practice as a physician assistant.

The MPAS program will serve as a strong foundation for the Physician Assistant National Certification Examination.

As noted in the PA Program’s admission requirements, there are minimum and competitive thresholds. A competitive candidate will meet or exceed the competitive thresholds as listed below.

Competitive Thresholds

  • Cumulative (Overall) GPA of 3.0
  • Prerequisite GPA of 3.0 with no course grade lower than C
  • Upper level (science major oriented) courses are recommended for the following pre-requisites mentioned in the requirements:
    • Microbiology
    • (Human) Anatomy and Physiology
    • Biochemistry
  • Preference for other relevant science coursework earning a C or above
  • GRE General test scores
      • Combined verbal/quantitative score over 300
      • Quantitative over 150
      • Analytical Writing GRE result of 3.5 or above
  • Deeper discernment into the profession such as paid health care experience/patient contact

Please upload all documents/materials through the CASPA portal. When the CASPA portal closes, please send to the PA Program at Mercy College of Ohio. The Program will advise and direct best methods of delivery at that time.

The Admission Committee will not consider unsolicited information outside of the CASPA application.

Be sure to label all files with your last name, first name and content description. Ex: Smith_Mollie_Mercy College transcript.pdf

The PA Program Admissions Committee receives your application once CASPA has processed and verified it. Click here to find out more about how your CAPSA application is processed. An email will be sent from Mercy College within a week to acknowledge receipt of your application, and to notify if there are any outstanding needs. Within 4-6 weeks you will be notified of your application review status via email.

The selection process consists of the CASPA, GPA, GRE scores, personal statement, Altus Suite (Casper/Snapshot), and interview activities.

Admissions Cycle Calendar for Mercy College of Ohio’s PA Program *Subject to change

  • April: The CASPA (Central Application System for Physician Assistants) application cycle opens for applicants who wish to matriculate in the program in May of the following year.
  • May-December: The Admissions Committee will begin reviewing completed applications. Applications will be reviewed and scored based on:
    • Academic achievement (Overall GPA, Prerequisite GPA, Academic Rigor)
    • GRE
    • Healthcare Discernment
    • Letters of Recommendation
    • Written and verbal Communication
    • Academic Misconduct, Healthcare Program Dismissal or Professional Misconduct
  • December 1: All application materials must be received by CASPA

Interviews and Offers of Admission

  • On a rolling basis:
    • Invitations to complete Altus Suite will be extended for applicants eligible to interview. This is used to further review and score an applicant.
    • Invitations will be extended for interviews after review of individual applications.
      • Applicants are encouraged to submit their application to CASPA as early as possible.
      • Applications will be reviewed in the order in which they are verified and completed, including Altus Suite.
      • Invited candidates will be required to participate in an interview to be considered for admission.
  • September - January:
    • Interviews will take place. Offers will be extended to top candidates for open seats.
      • Upon receiving an offer of admission:
        • Candidates will have 14 days to:
          • accept the position and conditions of acceptance
          • pay the initial $500 non-refundable tuition deposit
        • Following the initial 14 days, candidates will have an additional 3 weeks:
          • to pay the remaining $500 to secure their position.
        • When the student matriculates, the non-refundable tuition deposit will be applied to the student’s tuition.
  • February-May: Final admissions decisions are made. Offers will be extended for remaining open seats and alternate positions in the class.
  • May: Matriculation

Due to the volume of applications received, the program is unable to provide individual review.

The CASPA site opens April 28, 2022, and cutoff is December 1st for CASPA cycle 2023. A rolling admissions model is utilized, so applicants are encouraged to apply early.

With the rolling admissions process, it is beneficial to reactivate applications early. Reactivating your prior application is to your advantage. It is encouraged to have your CASPA application completed by June 7 of the current cycle. For those who interviewed and did not gain a seat last cycle with a completed application by the above date:

  • Admissions Committee will assess the reactivated application for improved competitiveness
  • Upon agreement of the program and applicant, competitive data points from last cycle may be used.
  • The applicant may receive an offer for repeat interview or an expedited interview process.

In 2020-2021 admissions cycle, the PA Program received approximately 250 completed applications.

Due to COVID 19, all interviews will be in virtual format. The interview process occurs in 3 steps:

  1. In-depth virtual information session
  2. Small group virtual interview
  3. Individual virtual interview

The MPAS Program utilizes Zoom for its virtual interview platform.

Please visit Mercy College’s Admission Criteria information regarding international students.

In your acceptance letter you will receive detailed information on how to move forward with your tuition deposit and course enrollment.

The medical equipment that is purchased in school are the tools of the PA trade. The quality of the equipment purchased is very important. The medical equipment obtained now should last well into a provider’s career.

The PA Program has contracted with a vendor (The Medical Store) to offer the required equipment at a discounted group price with student promotions and free delivery to school. The prices offered by The Medical Store are substantially lower than what may be found elsewhere. When a purchase is made from The Medical Store the customer receives an exclusive Unconditional Student Warranty, in addition to the manufacturer's warranties.

The program potentially will allow use of previously owned medical equipment that fits the stringent requirements of the curriculum. Should an applicant be offered a seat in the cohort, they would want to notify the program. The PA program will determine what, if any, pre-owned equipment is appropriate on an individual basis.

Mercy College does not require students to provide or solicit their own clinical sites or preceptors. If a student generates a lead, then the program can investigate according to the program process. Feasibility will be explored when possible, however, the PA program can’t promise that a student-generated lead will culminate in a clinical site or preceptor.

Mercy College utilizes an on-campus digital dissection tool (Anatomage Table) supplemented with the Anatomage Table companion application for iPads. Digital dissections allow for a robust regional anatomy learning experience without the potential hazards of chemical preservatives. The Anatomage Table, specifically, provides an assortment of cadavers that display normal and pathological anatomic variations, numerous cases that provide a means to critically think through anatomical problems, a vast library of images (tissue, x-ray, CT) that expand upon the regional anatomy learned with the cadavers, and the ability to customize learning experiences. A growing body of research identifies that digital dissection improves student performance in gross anatomy labs. Mercy College’s decision to utilize digital anatomy platforms also allows flexibility for students to learn anatomy as a team-based approach or autonomously both in the laboratory and online environments.

Please see grading scale here.

Yes, at the close of the admissions cycle. Approximately two weeks into the start of the program notifications will be made.

The MPAS Program and Office of Enrollment management will not provide individual review of applications. Suggestions for improvement for the application process will be included with a denial notification. Please review the list of competitive thresholds on the website.

Mercy College of Ohio does not provide on-campus housing; however, you can find off-campus housing resources here.

Mercy College of Ohio adheres to the guidelines and safety protocols of the Bon Secours Mercy Health System and has implemented enhanced precautions for all students, faculty, and staff based on these guidelines each semester. While the intention of the Mercy College PA program is to be an entirely in-person experience, the current Covid-19 pandemic has required the faculty, staff, and students to be flexible in shifts from online, hybrid, and in-person based on recommendations from the health system and current resources.

AAPA - American Academy of Physician Associates (formerly Physician Assistants)
An organization committed to promote quality, cost-effective, accessible health care, and to promote the professional and personal development of PAs. Students can join the Student Academy of AAPA (SAAAPA). Mercy College of Ohio has established its local SAAAPA Chapter.

SAAAPA
- Student Academy of American Academy of Physician Associates (formerly Physician Assistants)
The Student Academy Board of Directors helps to lead students furthering the mission of the AAPA. Students can also join the Assembly of Representatives (AOR) who help to guide the work of the Student Academy Board of Directors and Student Board Committees. Mercy College of Ohio’s SAAAPA Chapter elects its AOR representative for each new cohort of PA students.

ARC-PA
- Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant
Accrediting body that establishes and maintains standards for PA education through a peer review process. PA students participate in ARC-PA site visit process with a student session.

NCCPA
- National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants
The national certifying organization for PAs that provides certification for PAs throughout their career. Most, it not all, states require NCCPA certification for licensure.

PA Hx Society
- Society for the Preservation of PA History
There are opportunities for PA students to contribute to their board.

PAEA
- PA Education Association
An organization working to ensure quality PA education through development and distribution of educational services and products to PA Programs. Students can apply for fellowships through PAEA as well as contributing to their board.

Didactic Phase Semesters I-IV

Semester I: Summer 1 (13 weeks – 14 credit hours)

PAS 500PA Professional Issues and Medical Ethics (1 credit hour)
PAS 505Health Care Policy and Systems (1 credit hour)
PAS 510Basic Sciences Foundations (6 credit hours)
PAS 520Pharmacology (3 credit hours)
PAS 531Patient Assessment and Clinical Skills I (2 credit hours)
PAS 541Clinical Diagnostics-I: Diagnostic Labs (1 credit hour)

Semester II: Fall 1 (17 weeks – 18 credit hours)

PAS 521Clinical Medicine and Therapeutics I (10 credit hours)
PAS 532Patient Assessment and Clinical Skills II (3 credit hours)
PAS 542Clinical Diagnostics II (2 credit hours)
PAS 551Evidence Based Practice-I (1 credit hour)
PAS 561Clinical Integrations and Decision Making I (2 credit hours)


Semester III: Spring 1 (17 weeks – 18 credit hours)

PAS 522Clinical Medicine and Therapeutics II (10 credit hours)
PAS 533Patient Assessment and Clinical Skills III (3 credit hours)
PAS 543Clinical Diagnostics III (2 credit hours)
PAS 562Clinical Integrations and Decision Making II (3 credit hours)

Semester IV: Summer 2 (13 weeks – 12 credit hours)

PAS 523Clinical Medicine and Therapeutics III (5 credit hours)
PAS 534Patient Assessment and Clinical Skills IV (3 credit hours)
PAS 552Evidence Based Practice-II (1 credit hour)
PAS 563Clinical Integrations and Decision Making III (3 credit hours)

Clinical Phase (Clinical Year) Semesters V-VII
The PA Program’s clinical phase covers three semesters. The Clinical Phase Seminar and Scholarly Inquiry course series are first presented by semester as these run concurrent with the Supervised Clinical Practice Experiences (SCPE) which are assigned on a rotating basis over these three semesters. Students are typically expected back on campus for end of rotation activities after each major SCPE block. Students must pass the PA Program didactic phase to enter the clinical phase.

CONCURRENT DIDIACTIC COURSES during the Clinical Phase

Semester V: Fall 2

PAS 651Scholarly Inquiry I (1 credit hour)
PAS 671Clinical Phase Seminar I (1 credit hour)

Semester VI: Spring 2

PAS 652Scholarly Inquiry II (1 credit hour)
PAS 672Clinical Phase Seminar II (1 credit hour)

Semester VII: Summer 3

PAS 653Scholarly Inquiry III (2 credit hours)
PAS 673Clinical Phase Seminar III (2 credit hours)

SUPERVISED CLINICAL PRACTICE EXPERIENCES (SCPE)
Students are assigned into a series of Supervised Clinical Practice Experiences in a variety of settings on a rotating schedule. The SCPEs are divided into 8 periods of approximately 6 weeks each. Required 6-week experiences include Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Emergency Medicine and General Surgery/Surgery. Experiences in Women’s Health, Pediatrics and Behavioral Health are required 3-week experiences that may be integrated throughout the clinical experiences. Electives are available in a variety of clinical practice areas, pending preceptor/site availability and prior rotation experience. Electives can be in a new discipline or an augmentation of a required discipline. Students are to average 45 hours a week at the clinical experiences (on site 40-60 hrs/wk). The PA Program reserves the right to assign rotations or supplemental activities to ensure that students meet all PA Program requirements for the SCPEs. The SCPEs are competency based with Pass/Fail grading.

Semester V: Fall 2

PAS 661SCPE 1 (6)
PAS 662SCPE 2 (6)
PAS 663SCPE 3 (6)

Semester VI: Spring 2

PAS 664SCPE 4 (6)
PAS 665SCPE 5 (6)
PAS 666SCPE 6 (6)

Semester VII: Summer 3

PAS 667SCPE 7 (6)
PAS 668SCPE 8 (6)
Course Descriptions
MPAS Program Goals Benchmarks for Goals Measures/Indicators
Guided by our mission, vision, and values, the PA Program of Mercy College of Ohio aspires to meet these goals:
1. National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants Board Pass Rate Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam program performance at or above the national mean score for overall performance and for specialty and task areas National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants results
Mercy College PANCE Pass Rates
2. Employment RateAt least 95% PA placement within 12 months of graduationResults of Program Goals
  • Program anticipates first graduates in August 2023 with data available late 2024.
3. Meet Mission 100% of Physician Assistant Students (PAS) and PA faculty/staff will meet PA Program Mission annually through service, leadership, or scholarship by participating in at least two of these areas annually: Academic year 2021-2022
  • 100% of PAS Class 2023 and Program Members participated in at least two of the three areas of Service, Leadership, and Scholarship.
3a. Service Service to community, profession, college, external stakeholders, etc. Academic year 2021-2022
  • 100% of PAS Class 2023 participated in Service with their Service-Learning curriculum. Examples include: Tent City (health care for those experiencing homelessness); Community Care Clinic; Food Bank; Admission volunteers; Mentors for incoming PA cohort
  • Program members (faculty and staff) participated with service. Examples include: Tent City (health care for those experiencing homelessness); Various Program and College committees; Local community and religious organization service; Mentors for junior faculty
3b. Leadership Leadership to community, profession, college, external stakeholders, etc. Academic year 2021-2022
  • 58% of PAS Class 2023 participated in Leadership in the didactic phase of the PA Program. Examples include: Mercy College of Ohio SAAAPA chapter established, and officers elected and serving; Promotion of PA profession for PA week October 2021; Organizing PAS “Lunch and Learn” sessions in which PA-Cs visit with the students and speak about careers; SAAAPA’s 2022 Assembly of Representatives delegate May 2022; AAAPA’s Student Medical Bowl May 2022; Initiative for Wellness Friday June 2022- planned and hosted an Olympic-style event with mentors (PA Class 2023)/mentees (PA Class 2024) on the same team to help promote unison between the two cohorts
  • 100% of Program members (faculty and staff) participated in leadership. Examples include: Committee chair/officer for program and college committees; Change Leader (College DEI initiative); PA History Society Featured Program Spotlight May 2022; Host of virtual Grand Rounds CME for potential preceptors
3c. Scholarship 100% of faculty and PAS participate in Boyer scholarship model activities Academic year 2021-2022
  • 100% of PAS Class 2023 participating in Scholarship through their research curriculum with the development of Scholarly Inquiry Project proposals.
  • 100% of Faculty participated in leadership. Examples include: PA State Association presentations; PA Education Association (PAEA) national presentations (CME and Solution’s Circles); Grand Rounds presentations and other professional organization presentations; Grant writing; Accreditation reports, Curriculum development; Mentoring Scholarly Inquiry project proposals; Dissertation committee member, outside expert


Program Student Learning Outcomes (PSLOs)/Program Defined Competencies

The Mercy College of Ohio PA Program Student Learning Outcomes (PSLOs) are the Program Defined Competencies expected of a new PA graduate. The Mercy College of Ohio PA Program also articulates 7 PA Professional Competency Domains which fall under the PSLOs. The first competency domains listed under each PSLO are considered primary.

How The Mercy PA Program Meets The Competencies As Required By The PAEA

PSLO #1: Analyze population/public health issues that impact patients and their communities (e.g. health literacy, social determinants of health).

  • D2. Population Health and Public Health
  • D3. Communication- Health Literacy, Interpersonal and Communication Skills
  • D6. Health Care Finance and Systems/Systems- Based Practice

PSLO #2: Analyze clinical scenarios, formulate differential diagnoses, perform clinical and technical skills and procedures, and create management plans rooted in current evidence-based and current best practice guidelines.

  • D1. Patient-Centered Practice and Medical Knowledge
  • D2. Population Health and Public Health
  • D4. Interprofessional Collaborative Practice and Leadership
  • D6. Health Care Finance and Systems/Systems- Based Practice

PSLO #3: Engage in critical thinking in clinical reasoning and problem-solving and scholarly inquiry.

  • D6. Health Care Finance and Systems/Systems- Based Practice
  • D1. Patient-Centered Practice and Medical Knowledge
  • D2. Population Health and Public Health

PSLO #4: Defend ethical decisions with respect to individual health care cases and population/public health issues using Mercy College Values.

  • D5. Professional and Legal Aspects of Health Care/Professionalism
  • D2. Population Health and Public Health

PSLO #5: Evaluate peers, interprofessional team members, and supervising professionals.

  • D3. Communication- Health Literacy, Interpersonal and Communication Skills
  • D4. Interprofessional Collaborative Practice and Leadership
  • D1. Patient-Centered Practice and Medical Knowledge
  • D5. Professional and Legal Aspects of Health Care/Professionalism

PSLO #6: Create an action plan for professional growth and development.

  • D7. Self-Assessment, Cultural Humility and Ongoing Professional Development

Results of Learning Outcomes
Program Professional Competency Domains

  • Document .pdfPANCE Pass Rate


    First-time PANCE rate for the five most recent graduating classes.

    Download
  • Document .pdfAttrition Rates


    ARC-PA Student Attrition

    Download
  • Document .pdfMPAS Results of Learning Outcomes


    Physician Assistant Annual Assessment Plan

    Download

Career Outlook

Graduate MPAS admission requirements at Mercy College of Ohio follow below.

Note that preference is for competitive applicants who will typically have more than minimal requirements. The PA Program does not accept transfer credits into the Graduate Program or credit by examination for prerequisite courses. PA Program admittance is contingent upon successful completion of all pre-requisite coursework and undergraduate degree completion prior to matriculation.

Minimum Requirements (see the next section for competitive thresholds)

  • Applicants must be US citizens or US legal permanent residents to qualify for admission to the program.
  • Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution prior to matriculation into the PA program
    • Undergraduates may apply, provided they will receive a baccalaureate degree prior to the May starting date of the PA program.
    • Applicants with international transcripts are required to submit their official transcripts to World Education Services (WES) for a course-by-course level evaluation and calculated cumulative grade point average (GPA). Contact WES at www.wes.org.
  • The following pre-requisite coursework must be completed prior to matriculation with no course grade lower than C (Successfully repeated with a grade C or above will be considered)
    • One semester of medical terminology (minimum 1 semester hour or equivalent quarter hours) or valid certificate of completion or equivalent.
    • One semester of psychology (minimum 3 semester hours or equivalent quarter hours)
    • One semester of statistics (minimum 3 semester hours or equivalent quarter hours)
    • One semester of genetics (minimum 3 semester hours or equivalent quarter hours)
    • One semester of organic chemistry (minimum 3 semester hours or equivalent quarter hours), (proper organic chemistry as prerequisite to biochemistry course)
    • One semester of microbiology (minimum 3 semester hours or equivalent quarter hours)
    • Equivalent of two semesters of combined (human) anatomy and physiology (minimum 6 semester hours or equivalent quarter hours): Labs are preferred but not required.
    • One semester of biochemistry (with organic chemistry prerequisite) (minimum 3 semester hours or equivalent quarter hours)
  • Prerequisite coursework guidelines
    • All prerequisite coursework must be completed with a grade of C (or 2.0 on a 4.0 scale) or higher
    • Successfully repeated prerequisite coursework with a grade C or above will be considered.
    • Applicants with pending prerequisite coursework will be considered. Pending coursework must be completed by matriculation. Acceptance into the program will be conditional upon completing all required coursework satisfactorily.
    • Official transcripts must be requested by the applicant to be sent directly to Mercy College of Ohio upon completion of baccalaureate degree and/or completion of pending coursework.
    • Online courses from regionally accredited institutions are acceptable.
    • Due to COVID-19, it is recognized that some applicants may have science coursework (including prerequisites) that are now pass/fail. Although it is strongly encouraged that applicants complete a course and earn a traditional grade, pass/fail coursework will be considered for classes completed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please keep in mind pass/fail coursework does not factor into the science GPA or prerequisite GPA calculation.
    • Outside of the COVID-19 pandemic, pass/fail prerequisite coursework will not be considered.
    • Advanced Placement (AP) coursework will not be accepted for pre-requisite coursework.
    • No advanced placement or standing will be awarded for coursework in the PA program. The program’s curriculum is specifically sequenced so each semester provides an educational foundation upon which the following semesters will build.
  • Letters of recommendation: Minimum of two (2) two academic or professional letters of recommendation.
    • Examples of appropriate sources for reference letters include: PA or Physician (MD or DO), current or former work supervisor, academic source such as an academic advisor, instructor, or professor.
    • These should be considered suggestions for references only. Applicants should select references based on many factors and should reflect those who know them best. The letters should come from professional sources, not family members or friends.
  • GRE General test within the last 5 years
    • The PA CASPA GRE code is 4751.You must choose Mercy College of Ohio as the receiving institution or it will not be visible on the college’s CASPA portal.
    • Official scores are required from the Graduate Record Examination general test (GRE).
    • No other test scores are accepted in lieu of the GRE.
    • GRE scores are required of ALL candidates, including candidates who have already earned masters or doctoral degrees.
  • Discernment into the profession such as shadowing, volunteer experience and patient contact
  • Technical Standards must be met
  • Clinical Requirements must be met at time of matriculation and ongoing per program requirements.

Competitive Thresholds

  • Cumulative (Overall) GPA of 3.0
  • Prerequisite GPA of 3.0 with no course grade lower than C
  • Upper level (science major oriented) courses, preferably taken in the past 5 years, are recommended for the following pre-requisites mentioned in the requirements:
    • Microbiology
    • (Human) Anatomy and Physiology
    • Biochemistry
  • Preference for other relevant science coursework earning a C or above
  • GRE General test scores
    • Combined verbal/quantitative score over 300
    • Quantitative over 150
    • Analytical Writing GRE result of 3.5 or above
  • Deeper discernment into the profession such as paid health care experience/patient contact

Interview Requirements:

  • A portion of applicants will be invited for an interview based upon application screening.
  • Those applicants under active consideration for candidacy will be asked to complete Altus Suite (previously CASPer and Snapshot) by Altus Assessments.
  • Completion of Step I Interview: Information Session
  • Signed Technical Standards and Pre-disclosure forms

Admissions Cycle Calendar for Mercy College of Ohio’s PA Program *Subject to change

  • April: The CASPA (Central Application System for Physician Assistants) application cycle opens for applicants who wish to matriculate in the program in May of the following year.
  • May-December: The Admissions Committee will begin reviewing completed applications. Applications will be reviewed and scored based on:
    • Academic achievement (Overall GPA, Prerequisite GPA, Academic Rigor)
    • GRE
    • Healthcare Discernment
    • Letters of Recommendation
    • Written and verbal Communication
    • Academic Misconduct, Healthcare Program Dismissal or Professional Misconduct
  • December 1: All application materials must be received by CASPA

Interviews and Offers of Admission

  • On a rolling basis:
    • Invitations to complete Altus Suite will be extended for applicants eligible to interview. This is used to further review and score an applicant.
    • Invitations will be extended for interviews after review of individual applications.
      • Applicants are encouraged to submit their application to CASPA as early as possible.
      • Applications will be reviewed in the order in which they are verified and completed, including Altus Suite.
      • Invited candidates will be required to participate in an interview to be considered for admission.
  • September - January:
    • Interviews will take place. Offers will be extended to top candidates for open seats.
      • Upon receiving an offer of admission:
        • Candidates will have 14 days to:
          • accept the position and conditions of acceptance
          • pay the initial $750 non-refundable tuition deposit
        • Following the initial 14 days, candidates will have an additional 2 weeks:
          • to pay the remaining $500 to secure their position.
        • When the student matriculates, the non-refundable tuition deposit will be applied to the student’s tuition.
  • February-May: Final admissions decisions are made. Offers will be extended for remaining open seats and alternate positions in the class.
  • May: Matriculation
Technical Standards
Clinical Requirements
Direct Entry Admissions Requirements

Please note the following highlighted policies regarding:

Employment while in the MPAS program.

  • Due to the rigorous academics, time-intensive studies, and clinical nature of this program, employment of any kind is discouraged.

Admission and enrollment practices that favor specified individuals or groups.

  • The PA Program does have a Direct Entry pathway. There are five seats reserved for potential Direct Entry students. Mercy College’s qualified undergraduate pre-PA track Biology majors completing the graduate admissions/CASPA application process will be offered an interview.

The MPAS Program providing clinical sites/preceptors.

  • The MPAS Program at Mercy College of Ohio does not require students to provide or solicit their own clinical sites or preceptors.

Refunds of Tuition and Fees

  • The policy for Refunding Tuition and Fees can be found in the Graduate Catalog under the topics of Financial Aid (R2T4) and Refund Request.
  • It is important to visit with Student Records, Financial Aid, and the Business Office to make sure you understand the implications related to financial responsibilities and that all forms have been submitted and appropriate action has been taken.