Program Exit Policies

Grounds for dismissal in the program include, but are not limited to, the following:

Academic Reasons

• Academic reasons for dismissal are noted in the Academic Standards section of this handbook.

Other Violations

Other violations that may lead to dismissal from the program include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Lapses in professionalism deemed egregious in number or substance by the Progression & Accountability Council (PAC)

• Illegal activities deemed egregious in number or substance by the PAC

• Failure to meet the conditions established in a plan of action 

• Excessive unexcused absences, tardiness, or early departures

• Academic integrity violations

• Unpaid university balances 

An enrolled physician assistant student requesting a voluntary withdrawal from the program should notify the Director of Student Affairs and the Program Director. Withdrawal remains subject to the financial obligations outlined in the aforementioned Tuitions, Fees, and Refunds policy. The program will follow university guidelines for transcript and grade reporting.

A leave of absence may be required when a PA student needs to separate from the program for an extended period of time, rendering the student unable to complete didactic or clinical work in a timely manner. Leave of absence requests must be substantiated by a compelling reason deemed acceptable by the program. Reasons may include but are not limited to, medical necessity, parental leave, personal issues, and other such rationale regarded as compelling. Leave of absence will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Progression & Accountability Council (PAC) and may not exceed one year in length. Efforts will be made to keep the PA student on pace to graduate on the originally planned date; however, due to the nature of the coursework, this may not always be possible. 

A PA student seeking a leave of absence must complete a Leave of Absence Form and meet with the PAC to ensure the rationale is appropriate and compelling to the program. If approved, the PAC will also develop an action plan which may include deceleration to a subsequent cohort. Upon approval of the leave of absence and recommendation of an action plan by the PAC, all students will be required to meet with the Director of Student Affairs for completion of all university and program-specific forms.  The leave of absence documentation will be completed with an exit interview occurring with the program director. 

A student may appeal the leave of absence decision as adjudicated by the PAC. Please refer to the Appeals policy for further details.