NLU PA Program — Didactic Year Handbook
Appendix K: Course Descriptions (Condensed Catalogue)
The condensed course descriptions below are drawn from the Program’s official course catalog and correspond to the Didactic Curriculum tables above. Full-length course descriptions, learning objectives, and ARC-PA standards mapping for each course are maintained in the individual course syllabi, which govern in the event of any discrepancy.
Term I
PAS 511 Medical Anatomy and Lab (5 Credits) This course provides a comprehensive survey of human gross anatomy with integrated clinical correlations to support medical and surgical practice. Students study the head and neck, back, extremities, thorax, abdomen, pelvis, and perineum. Emphasis is placed on osteology, musculature, vasculature, nerves, and soft tissues to understand common acute and chronic pathologies. Laboratory sessions reinforce practical application of anatomical knowledge in clinical settings. PAS 512 Pathophysiology I (3 Credits) This course introduces normal physiology and associated pathology aligned with the NCCPA Content Blueprint. Students examine genetic and molecular mechanisms that regulate cellular, tissue, and organ system function. Emphasis is placed on understanding disease processes and pathophysiologic alterations in the human body. The course builds foundational knowledge for clinical decision-making. PAS 513 Physical Examination and Documentation I (4 Credits) This first course in a two-part series develops foundational interviewing, physical examination, and documentation skills. Organized by organ systems, students learn to perform comprehensive subjective and objective assessments. Instruction includes diagnostic equipment use, cultural awareness, patient rights, confidentiality, and introductory billing and coding. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based practice and effective clinical communication. PAS 514 The Physician Assistant Profession I (1 Credit) This course introduces the history, evolution, and role of the PA profession within healthcare systems. Students explore professional responsibilities, credentialing, malpractice, confidentiality, and informed consent. The course emphasizes interprofessional collaboration, cultural competence, and social determinants of health. Students also examine professional identity, ethical conduct, burnout prevention, and impairment awareness. PAS 515 Medical Research and Information Literacy (1 Credit) This course introduces principles of clinical research and evidence-based medicine. Students learn to critically evaluate medical literature and apply research findings to patient care. Instruction includes development of a written research project on a clinical topic. Emphasis is placed on strengthening information literacy and clinical decision-making skills.
PAS 516 Skills, Observation, Assessment, Results (SOAR) I (2 Credits)
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