The Physician Assistant Department at the Ruskin Campus is offering a Master of Physician Assistant Science degree available through a post-baccalaureate curriculum. The curriculum is predominantly clinical during the final year of the program. Adjunct regional medical faculty, in conjunction with various health care institutions, introduces the students to professional physician assistant training. Clinical sites are offered primarily in Florida.

Upon completion of the Physician Assistant Program the student will be able to:

Perform a complete and accurate history and physical examination; identify abnormal findings and develop an appropriate differential diagnosis

Develop a plan of evaluation in support of the differential diagnosis, including specialized diagnostic imaging, and pathologic modalities

Develop a treatment plan consisting of surgical and medical interventions including non-pharmacological modalities such as physical therapy, counseling and patient education through analysis of clinical and laboratory data

Accurately relate the clinical data to the other members of the health care team, forming a collaborative effort to assure maximal patient benefit through a multiple disciplinary approach

Show proficiency in performing clinical skills

Identify characteristics of professional and ethical conduct for the Physician Assistant Profession

Synthesize theory and research in order to provide advanced care to patients

Gannon is a Catholic, Diocesan university dedicated to excellence in teaching, scholarship and service. Gannon’s faculty and staff prepare students to be global citizens through programs grounded in the liberal arts and sciences and professional specializations. Inspired by the Catholic Intellectual Tradition, The University offer a comprehensive, values-centered learning experience that emphasizes faith, leadership, inclusiveness and social responsibility.

Gannon is located in Pennsylvania's fourth largest city and one of the busiest ports on the Great Lakes. Gannon’s urban campus, in the middle of downtown Erie, is within a two hour drive of Cleveland, Buffalo, and Pittsburgh. The unique location and facilities create a special atmosphere conducive to learning, scholarship, research, service, and personal growth.

The Florida site is an innovative response to the increasing demand for high-quality graduate education in disciplines that serve the rapidly expanding health care sector of the Florida economy. The additional site increases the opportunity for Gannon University students, prospective students and faculty to help meet the need for health professionals in a state where the population of both older persons and school-age persons is growing.

The extensive market research spanned the country and several states with growing populations. The west coast of Florida had the optimal balance of growing population of college-age students, a growing need for health care professionals combined with a limited number of graduate health care professional programs and an extremely welcoming community.

The additional site was also chosen for its congruence with Gannon University's Mission and Catholic Identity. The University was encouraged to find open and eager partners within the Ruskin community, the Catholic Diocese of St. Petersburg and at potential sites for clinical and field placements.