The College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences at Campbell University will graduate its fifth cohort of physician assistants at a special summer ceremony today. The PA Class of 2017 is the first class to graduate in the program’s accelerated 24-month curriculum.
The class will celebrate with a Long White Coat Ceremony ahead of the commencement exercise, a tradition maintained since the inaugural class of Campbell PAs graduated in 2013.
The white coat ceremony signifies the transition from student to practicing clinician as health care professionals wear longer white coats in practice and students wear short white coats. Graduates select a significant person in their academic career to present their long white coat to them during the ceremony.
During the afternoon commencement exercise, 44 students will receive their Master of Physician Assistant Practice (MPAP) degree. Eight students will also graduate with a dual degree Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH).
Alfred M. Sadler, Jr., pioneer physician advocate for the PA profession, will give the commencement address.
About the Campbell University Physician Assistant Program:
Campbell University’s Physician Assistant program provides graduate clinical education in a Christian environment in the tradition of faith, learning and service. Principles of medical science and professional ethical standards inform the education of students. The program endeavors to meet the future needs of the PA profession and its role in the health care delivery system throughout the continuum of care. The program promotes patient-centered, evidence-based medicine preparing students to be competent health care providers.