NCC Student taking blood pressure

MSPAS: Policies

Program Homepage Program FAQ Request Info

Policy Section Table of Contents

*click link in table for quick-access 

 

Program Policies

All programmatic policies apply to all students, principal faculty, instructional faculty and the program director and medical director. All policies have been carefully designed and voted upon by the Physician Assistant Faculty and Staff and approved by the Dean of the School of Education and Health Science, as well as the Council of Graduate and Professional Studies with purpose to safeguard the student, his/her colleagues and future patients. Our NC MSPAS Student Handbooks are available to all matriculants both electronically and in print form.

Progression Criteria

Didactic Year Progression Criteria

All students must successfully complete the Didactic courses of one semester before progressing to the next semester. Advancement to the clinical year will be recommended by the Student Progress Committee when satisfactory completion of following components occurs:

  • All didactic coursework completed with a “P” Pass
  • Successful completion of End-of-Didactic written exam >74.5%
  • Pass the End-of-Didactic OSCE
  • Foundational Assessment Milestones at a level commensurate of training (novice)
  • Maintenance of Minimum Technical Standards (Appendix 2)
  • Student health clearance and insurance verification
  • HIPAA and OSHA Blood Borne Pathogens training completion
  • Negative Drug screen (completed during Bridge Course MSPAS 600)
  • Negative Criminal Background Check (completed during Bridge Course MSPAS 600)
  • Successful completion of the Bridge Course, ACLS and PALS certification
  • Compete National PAEA Exam: PACKRAT I score > 120 is a programmatic benchmark but not a requirement for progression.
    • Failure to meet this benchmark will result in review by the SPC committee

Any student who does not meet the above criteria will be asked to meet with the SPC to discuss what led to the situation and ways to remediate and reassess. The student may ask their mentor to be present for support during this meeting. A recommendation by the SPC may include an individual learning plan or recommendation for placement on Academic Probation to the graduate academic standing committee. Failure to complete any of these requirements by the designated due date as outlined may result in a delayed start to the clinical year.

Clinical Year Completion and Progression Criteria

At the end of each six-week clinical rotation, the director(s) of clinical education (DCE) will review each student’s academic progress. Students must satisfactorily complete course learning outcomes as detailed in each clinical syllabus by the DCE to progress to the next rotation. At the conclusion of each semester, the DCE will meet with the student progress committee to assess progress, which includes assessment review of program competencies. In the final four months of the program, the SPC will meet to review each student’s performance in the program, including their summative exams and Capstone. The SPC will approve programmatic completion and share this decision with the student and the Office of the Registrar. The following criteria must be met prior to graduating from the program:

  • All clinical coursework completed with a “PD” Pass with Distinction or “P” Pass
  • Maintenance of Minimum Technical Standards (Appendix 2)
  • Pass all End-of-Rotation Exams (EORE) within 1.5 standard deviation from the mean in the negative
  • Successful completion of the Capstone Project
  • Pass Technical Skill Assessment Stations (CTS) (competent)
  • FAM milestones at a level commensurate of training (competent)
  • Pass Summative End-of-Curriculum Exam within 1.0 standard deviation from the mean in the negative
  • Pass Summative Assessments
  • Pass Summative OSCE
  • Complete PACKRAT II:  >150 is a programmatic benchmark but not required for graduation.
  • Submit application to the Registrar for graduation

Any student who does not meet the above criteria will be asked to meet with the SPC to discuss what led to the situation and ways to remediate and reassess. The student may ask their mentor to be present for support during this meeting. A recommendation by the SPC may result in remediation such as additional coursework and/or encouragement of the student to take a PANCE review course. Should the student have multiple difficulties in meeting completion of the program at the competency level expected, this may result in a recommendation to the Graduate Academic Standing Committee for placement on Academic Probation and delay in graduation.

Program Completion Criteria

Graduation

Physician assistant students must meet the following requirements to be eligible for graduation:

  • Successful pass all didactic and clinical year courses of the program
  • Competency of FAMs
  • Successfully passed all components of the summative assessments
  • Passing of End of Curriculum Examination
  • Maintenance of the Technical Standards
  • Are in good professional standing
  • Completion of Graduation Application with the Office of the Registrar and any associated fees
  • Have no outstanding financial obligations with North Central College

Failure of any of the above components could delay program completion, delay degree conferral, or prevent graduation. 

Time to Complete Program

All students must successfully complete all program requirements within 3.5 years, or 42 months from initial matriculation.

Remediation

If a student fails to demonstrate acceptable performance in the didactic year, a “student alert” will occur notifying the student, mentor, and the SPC Chair within 48 hours of identification of concern. The student will meet with the appropriate party (usually the course director) and topics or skills of concern are outlined and reviewed. A remediation plan must be agreed upon in writing by the student and appropriate party that outlines any assignments and/or remediation of missed topics, concepts, or skills. The remediation plan may also include the reassessment of missed topics, concepts, or skills. This agreement will be kept in a locked cabinet in the PA Program office in the student’s file. Remediation and reassessment of didactic or clinical work will be accomplished by the student and monitored by the course director/clinical preceptor/faculty advisor and the student progress committee.

If remediation is not completed by the student in the appropriate time or the student fails to demonstrate acceptable performance after the remediation and reassessment plan is completed, the SPC will meet to discuss the nature of this event and logical next steps. The SPC may recommend deceleration of academic progression, academic probation or dismissal to the Committee on Graduate Academic Standing, depending on the frequency or severity of the problem. The following policies represent the need for remediation and reassessment.

A. Non-Pass and Low-Pass on Didactic Exams/Assessments

Non-Pass Performance 

A non-pass on a didactic exam is defined as a score <74.5%.

A non-pass grade will result in the Course Director notifying the student, the student’s faculty advisor, and the Student Progress Committee (SPC) Chair via an “alert” within 48 hours of the occurrence. The student will be required to meet with the Course Director to review exam performance and determine a remediation and reassessment plan, which will be documented on the Program’s Remediation and Reassessment Form.

 

As part of the remediation process, the student must complete a self-analysis explaining their interpretation of why certain material or questions were missed.

 

The student must complete the remediation and reassessment within a maximum of fourteen (14) calendar days from the date of the original exam. A didactic exam may be reassessed only once. The maximum score that may be earned on reassessment is 74.5%.

 

  • If the student passes the reassessment, a score of 74.5% will be recorded in the gradebook.
  • If the student does not pass the reassessment, the higher of the two scores (original exam or reassessment) will be recorded in the gradebook.

The Course Director will monitor the student’s academic progress following a non-pass exam, notify the Student Progress Committee of any further academic difficulties, and refer the student for additional academic support as warranted.

 

A student who receives two (2) non-pass results on high-stakes assessments within a single course will be placed on academic probation.

A student who receives a third (3rd) non-pass result within the same course will fail the course and will be required to meet with the Student Progress Committee (SPC) to determine appropriate action, which will include academic deceleration or dismissal.

Low- Pass Performance 

A low-pass on a didactic exam is defined as a score of 74.5%–79.9%.

 

A low-pass grade will result in the Course Director notifying the student within forty-eight (48) hours of the occurrence. The student will be required to meet with the Course Director to review exam performance and determine a remediation plan, which will be documented on the Program’s Remediation and Reassessment Form. No reassessment or formal retesting is required for a low-pass exam.

 

As part of the remediation process, the student will complete a self-analysis during the meeting with the Course Director, reflecting on factors contributing to exam performance and identifying strategies for improvement.

 

For a first low-pass within a course, notification and remediation are managed at the course level, and the Student Progress Committee is not notified.

 

A second low-pass within the same course will result in: submission of a Student Alert to the SPC, notification of the student regarding SPC review, and a meeting with the Director of the SPC to discuss academic support strategies. The Course Director will monitor ongoing performance and refer the student for additional academic support or coaching as warranted.

 

Required Remediation (Applies to BOTH Non-Pass and Low-Pass)

All students with non-pass or low-pass performance on a high-stakes assessment must complete remediation within fourteen (14) calendar days of the original assessment. 

When a student is required to complete remediation, it will be conducted through a faculty-facilitated, multiple-choice–based clinical reasoning session.

Remediation is designed to support student learning by identifying and addressing gaps in knowledge, reasoning, and application, with the goal of strengthening understanding and performance on future assessments. Remediation structure may vary by course. Expectations and emphasis will vary by course and discipline to reflect course-specific learning objectives.

Remediation Structure (see below for example remediation structure - will vary by course)

1. MCQ-Based Clinical Discussion Structure 

  • Faculty will develop five (5) multiple-choice questions from content areas missed on the assessment.
  • Questions may emphasize medical knowledge its application to clinical reasoning, including problem representation, pathophysiology, clinical features, differential diagnosis, diagnostic evaluation, management, pharmacology and disposition.
  • Questions may include clinical data such as vital signs, labs, imaging, and physical exam findings.
  • Questions may include tables, graphs, imaging, diagnostic study results and pathology.

Student Expectations
During the session, the student will be expected to:

  1. Prepare in advance by reviewing the five (5) faculty-selected multiple-choice questions and arriving ready to discuss a committed answer and rationale for each question.
  2. Commit to and justify the single best answer.
  3. Systematically eliminate alternative answer choices.
  4. Apply evidence-based reasoning and able to cite resources.

2. Targeted Content Review

  • Review of additional missed topics not represented in the five-question session, as identified by the Course Director.
  • Reassessment is required only for non-pass performance.
  • Reassessment consists of a program-generated, timed, proctored multiple-choice assessment covering missed content areas.
  • Reassessment must be completed within fourteen (14) calendar days of the original assessment.
  • A high-stakes assessment may be reassessed only once.
  • The maximum score recorded for reassessment is 74.5%.

Reassessment (Required for Non-Pass ONLY)

Grade Recording

  • If the student passes the reassessment, 74.5% will be recorded.
  • If the student does not pass the reassessment, the higher of the two scores (original assessment or reassessment) will be recorded.

 

  1.  Low-Pass Performance of an EORE

 

Low-Pass Performance of an EORE 

Any student who receives a PAEA scale score within 1.0 to 1.5 SD of the national mean is considered a Low Pass, requiring the student to meet with the Directors of Clinical Education to remediate missed topic items with 14 calendar days from the original test date. Any student who receives a Low Pass score on a EORE is not required to formally retest. Any student who receives ≥2 Low Passes on a PAEA EORE will be required to meet with the Student Progress Committee.   

 

Non-Pass Performance of an EORE 

A minimum score of 1.5 minimum standard deviations from the PAEA national mean in the negative is required to pass a core End-of-Rotation Exam (EORE). Students who score below this minimum are required to undergo an EOR remediation and re-examination. Students scoring less than the required minimum on an EORE are given a retest and started on a course of remediation for that rotation. Students will take the retest 1 week later.  

 

EORE retests consist of an alternative version of the PAEA EORE.  A minimum score of 1.5 standard deviations from the PAEA national mean in the negative must be achieved on this retest. If a student achieves this, the student is awarded a score of 70% which will be utilized, along with other assessments, to calculate the final rotation grade. Remediation of an End of Rotation Exam is a means of ensuring that the student has gained the appropriate knowledge and experience throughout the rotation to justify forward movement in the Program and completion of the rotation.  

 

Students must receive a PAEA scale score within 1.5 standard deviation from the National mean in the negative to be considered as passing on all End-of-Rotation Exams (EORE).   

 

Low-Pass and Non-Pass of EORE Required Remediation Structure 

 

If any student receives a low-pass or non-pass on any EORE, the Director(s) of Clinical Education will notify the student, faculty mentor and SPC Chair within forty-eight (48) hours of any student who receives a low pass or non-pass on any End of Rotation Exam (EORE). The student and Director(s) of Clinical Education will meet, complete a Remediation and Reassessment Form, review academic performance of the exam and discuss remediation plan. 

 

All students with non-pass performance on an EORE must complete remediation prior to taking reassessment.  All students with low-pass performance on a EORE must complete remediation within fourteen (14) calendar days of the original assessment. 

 

When a student is required to complete remediation, it will be conducted through a faculty-facilitated, multiple-choice–based clinical reasoning session. 

 

Remediation is designed to support student learning by identifying and addressing gaps in knowledge, reasoning, and application, with the goal of strengthening understanding and performance on future assessments. Expectations and emphasis will vary by course and discipline to reflect course-specific learning objectives.  

  • Faculty will develop five (5) multiple-choice questions from content areas missed on the assessment.  
  • Questions will emphasize medical knowledge its application to clinical reasoning, including problem representation, differential diagnosis, diagnostic evaluation, initial management, and disposition.
  • Questions may include clinical data such as vital signs, labs, imaging, and physical exam findings. 

 

Student Expectations  
 

1.  During the session, the student will be expected to:  

 

1.       Prepare in advance by reviewing the five (5) faculty-selected multiple-choice questions and arriving ready to discuss a committed answer and rationale for each question. 

2.       Commit to and justify the single best answer using key history, physical exam findings, and interpretation of available diagnostic data. 

3.       Systematically eliminate alternative diagnoses by describing the expected clinical presentation of each alternative option and identifying required vs absent findings, risk factors, and features that argue against each choice.  

4.       Justify diagnostic testing decisions, including selection of initial vs. confirmatory testing, factors that would change the diagnostic approach, and how results would alter the working diagnosis, management plan, or disposition.  

5.       Apply medication algorithms when applicable, including first-line vs second-line options and escalation/de-escalation based on patient-specific factors. 

6.       Discuss disposition, including outpatient vs inpatient thresholds, indications for escalation of care, and appropriate follow-up.  

7.       Reflect on reasoning patterns contributing to assessment difficulty and identify specific strategies for improvement.  

 

2. Targeted Content Review 

 

  • Review of additional missed topics not represented in the five-question session, as identified by the Course Director.  

 

Students must meet all requirements of the Remediation Plan for the remediation assignment to be deemed “complete”.  

 

Failure of meeting the remediation exam benchmark will result in automatic failure of the rotation. If a student passes the retest, but the final course grade is under the minimum, the student will fail the rotation.

 

Recurrent Non-Pass Assessments – Didactic Year

Due to the fast-paced nature of the MSPAS program, it is likely that students may experience a non-passing grade on examinations (written or practical). Students will be allowed to remediate and reassess an unsuccessful examination attempt as per the NP Grade: Exam policy.

During the didactic year, two or more high-stakes examination failures in the same course, or, ≥2 or more examination failures across multiple didactic courses within a single semester, is considered an Academic Difficulty. This will result in notification of the student’s advisor, the Student Progress Committee (SPC), and the Program Director for review and recommendation for Academic Probation (see Academic Probation Policy).

The student will meet with the Student Progress Committee to discuss factors contributing to the academic difficulty and to develop a formal Academic Improvement Plan (AIP). The SPC will make a recommendation to the Graduate Academic Standing Committee regarding placement on Academic Probation. A copy of the AIP will be placed in the student’s academic file, which is maintained in a locked cabinet in the PA Program office.

Three high-stakes examination failures in a single didactic course, or failure to meet the conditions of an Academic Improvement Plan, may result in a recommendation for academic deceleration or dismissal from the program (see Academic Probation and Dismissal Policies).

 

Recurrent Non-Pass Assessments – Clinical Year

During the clinical year, a student will be placed on Academic Probation if the student receives a non-pass (NP) grade in a supervised clinical practical experience (SCPE) or fails two End-of-Rotation Exams (EOREs).

If a clinical year student receives a non-passing score on both the initial administration and reassessment of an End-of-Rotation Exam (EORE), the student will receive a non-pass (NP) course grade for the associated SCPE and will be required to remediate the course as outlined by the program.

Receipt of non-pass (NP) grades in two supervised clinical practical experiences (SCPEs) courses, or a total of four non-pass End-of-Rotation Exams (EOREs), will result in dismissal from the program (see Dismissal Policy). 

Clinical Rotation Remediation and Reassessment

Inability to achieve a passing grade in a clinical rotation will result in notification of the student, the student’s mentor, members of the SPC committee, and the Program Director. Any student who receives a non-pass for a clinical course will be asked to meet with the Student Progress Committee to discuss what led to the situation and ways to remediate and reassess, with the formal development of an academic improvement plan (AIP). The student may ask their mentor to be present for support during this meeting. Together, they will agree upon and create an Academic Improvement Plan (AIP) within 14 days and make a recommendation to the Graduate Academic Standing Committee for placement on Academic Probation (See Academic Probation Policy).

 

The failed rotation and remediation with reassessment plan must be successfully completed for the student to graduate. This will necessitate the use of an elective rotation and a later graduation date for the student. A student may receive only one course grade of Non-Pass (NP) per year. More than one grade of NP in the didactic or clinical year will result in a recommendation for dismissal to the Graduate Academic Standing Committee (see Dismissal Policy).

 

Poor Development on Foundational Assessment Milestones

Failure to achieve the appropriate developmental level (beginner, novice or competent) at the appropriate time for a FAM competency milestone assessment will result in the program notifying the student, the student’s mentor, and the Student Progress Committee (SPC). The student will meet with the SPC to determine the remediation and reassessment plan, which will include remedial instruction. 

 

The student will be offered a second opportunity for FAM coaching and/or additional tutoring as determined by the designated FAM faculty lead with oversight by the Student Progress Committee. The student will retest within a maximum of 14 days of the failed FAM reassessment. Any student who is unable to developmentally progress in their FAM milestones after two attempts at coaching and reassessment will be asked to meet with the SPC committee to discuss what led to the situation and ways to remediate and reassess. 

 

If the student shows a pattern of difficulty in the development of > 2 FAM milestone assessments with coaching and retesting as described above, the SPC committee will make a recommendation to the Graduate Academic Standing Committee for either Academic Probation or Dismissal, depending on the nature of the difficulty.

Deceleration

Deceleration in Academic Progress

The MSPAS program is a cohort model that is delivered in an accelerated environment. It would be nearly impossible to make up more than ten days of missed class. Therefore, students who are in good standing and wish to have more than ten days of leave during their didactic or clinical year will be required to decelerate (see Appendix 14).

 

Due to the nature of competency-based medical education, the SPC and the student will discuss the terms of the deceleration, which include various competency assessments prior to the decelerating re-entry in order to determine if the student is able to rejoin the cohort where they left off, or if they must begin in the following January with the new class. The decision on when the student will re-enter the program is determined on a case-by-case basis with objective measures, with the final decision made by both the Student Progress Committee and Program Director.

In the case of deceleration in the clinical year, the student must complete their supervised clinical practice experiences within 24 months of didactic year completion. The MPAS Program must be completed in 3 years.

 

A. Academic Deceleration

SPC may place a student on a Deceleration Sequence which may include a Delay or Deceleration to the subsequent cohort.  This occurs when a student fails to meet the minimum competencies required at selected points throughout the program.  A deceleration sequence will result in a deferred program completion and graduation (academic delay) or joining a subsequent cohort (deceleration).  Any costs attributed to a deceleration sequence are at the expense of the student.  

SPC may initiate a deceleration sequence for a student for any of the following reasons:

  • Failure in:
    • Course that has a pre-requisite
      • End of Didactic Comprehensive Examination
      • Summative evaluation
    • Multiple low pass and non-pass scores on high-stakes assessments across courses indicating a lack of knowledge base
    • Medical needs (verified by treating medical provider letter)
    • Military service requirement (verified by orders)
  • Any student decelerated for academic reasons by the SPC will be placed on Academic Probation for the remainder of the program.
  • Any student who has been placed on an academic delay must pass a re-entry assessment to progress and rejoin their cohort.
  • Any student who is decelerated to another cohort must complete all academic requirements of that cohort.

 

B. Voluntary Deceleration Procedures

  • Formally submit the Deceleration Request Form to the Program Director, who will call a Student Progress Committee Meeting to review progress to date, discuss the reasons for deceleration, period of time, and re-entry protocol.
  • Following the planning meeting, the SPC will finalize the terms of the deceleration and relay that information in writing to the student.
    • Due to the nature of competency based medical education, the SPC committee may recommend various competency assessments prior to re-entry.
  • Upon agreement of the terms of re-entry, the deceleration request will be communicated with Graduate Admissions.
  • The student will be required to communicate deceleration terms with the business office and financial aid, who will follow up with the refund procedures, should they apply: https://www.northcentralcollege.edu/policies/withdrawal-information

 

C. Medical Deceleration, Pregnancy and Parenting Student Policy Statement 

As stated in the “Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct and Retaliation” policy, Title IX ensures protection and equal treatment of pregnant individuals, persons with pregnancy-related conditions, and new parents in the College's admission process, educational programs, extracurricular activities, hiring, leave policies and employment policies. Title IX also prohibits the College from applying any rule related to a student's parental, family, or marital status that treats students differently based on gender.

Students who are pregnant will be treated as students who have temporary medical conditions. Therefore pregnancy, childbirth, false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, and recovery will be viewed as a justification for excused absences or a leave of absence for the period deemed medically necessary by the student’s physician. To receive approval for an extended leave of absence, or deceleration as defined by the PA Student Handbook, students are expected to comply with the Medical Emergencies policy in the Student Handbook located on “The Hub” https://hub.northcentralcollege.edu/documents/preview/10555/Pregnant-Parenting-Resource-Guide and they, or their designee (parents, guardian, etc.), should notify the Program Director and the Assistant Vice President of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (630) 637-5340. Upon the student's return to the College, reasonable steps will be taken to ensure that the student retains the same position of academic progress they were in when the leave was initiated. If the student will be absent ≤10 days, they must follow the MSPAS Leave of Absence policy.

Students who will be absent more than 10 days must then follow the NCC Medical Deceleration, Pregnancy, and Parenting Student Policy and apply for deceleration in the program. The MSPAS program deviates from the NCC policy: it is a competency based educational program and reserves the right to assess the student's level of competency prior to deciding on where the student will re-enter. 

Withdrawal

Students considering withdrawal from North Central must notify the MSPAS Program Director, Dean of the School of Education and Health Science and the School of Graduate and Professional Studies. The student must initiate this process by filling out the MSPAS Withdrawal form as well as forms suggested by the School of Graduate Professional Studies and North Central College.

The amount of refund due upon complete withdrawal is determined by the date that permission to withdraw is received from the School of Graduate and Professional Studies.

Dismissal

Dismissal from the program will be recommended to the Graduate Academic Standing Committee in writing by the Student Progress Committee in consultation with the Program Director. Each of the following may be cause for dismissal: 

  • Inability to remove oneself from academic or disciplinary probation within the time allotted upon initiation of probationary status
  • Inability to meet technical standards without accommodation to practice medicine safely
  • Receipt of three (3) non-pass results on high-stakes assessments within a single Didactic course
  • Receipt of a grade of non-pass (NP) in one didactic course
  • Receipt of a grade of non-pass (NP) on four End-Of-Rotation Exams (EOREs)
  • Receipt of a grade of non-pass (NP) in two supervised clinical practical experiences (SCPEs) in the clinical year
  • Three unprofessional behavior citations or an egregious professional conduct violation of nature that immediate dismissal is warranted

A recommendation for dismissal will be based upon review of the evidence, followed by an in-person discussion with the student regarding the problem at hand. Dismissal recommendations to the Graduate Academic Standing Committee will be based on the number and nature of failed or marginally passed courses and clinical experiences, evidence of egregious professional behavior issues or a pattern of professional behavior problems, or inability to meet one or more technical standards without accommodations to safely practice medicine. The student has the right to appeal a designation of dismissal per Graduate Academic Standing Committee procedures (2025-2026 North Central College Student Handbook).  Once the Graduate Academic Standing Committee decides on the case, the student will receive notification of the dismissal in mail and by email to the student’s college email address. The student has the right to per the Graduate Academic Standing Committee process and to reapply to the program in the following CASPA cycle, providing compelling evidence as to how they have addressed the issues that had prohibited them from performing to the level of expectation of the MSPAS program, which resulted in their dismissal.

Student Grievances

Definition: A grievance is defined as a serious violation of a law, including discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment, retaliation, or a violation or inequitable application of internal College policy. Situations considered under the terms of the Grievance Policy are as follows:

  • Discrimination, or harassment against an employee because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, pregnancy, or veteran status.
  • Sexual Harassment.
  • Retaliation against an employee for filing a grievance or complaint.
  • Whistleblowing or engaging in another protected activity.

North Central College (“College”) is committed to maintaining a positive learning, working, social, and residential environment for its students, faculty, and staff. The College does not discriminate or allow discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, pregnancy, political affiliation, religion, creed, ethnicity, national origin (including ancestry), citizenship status, physical or mental disability (including perceived disability), age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran or military status, unfavorable military discharge (except dishonorable discharge) predisposing genetic characteristics, order of protection, or any other protected category under applicable local, state, or federal law, including protections for those opposing discrimination or participating in any resolution process on campus, with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, or other human rights agencies in both employment and access to educational opportunities. 

In pursuit of these goals, and to ensure compliance with federal and state civil rights laws and regulations, the College will not tolerate acts of discrimination, harassment, sexual misconduct and/or retaliation against any administrator, staff, faculty, student, guest, visitor, camper, vendor or subcontractor, as such behavior seriously undermines the College’s effectiveness as an educational institution and a workplace. Please see the Student Handbook as outlined on “The Hub”

Reports of Sexual Misconduct, Bias, Reports of discrimination, harassment, sexual misconduct and/or retaliation may be made using any of the following options:

  • Local Law Enforcement and Campus Safety:
    • Naperville Police Department is located at 1350 Aurora in Naperville and can be contacted by dialing 911 (Emergency) or calling (630) 420-6666 (Non-Emergency) to make a police report.
    • Campus Safety: Officer on Call – (630) 637-5911, 24-hours, Director of Campus Safety – (630) 637-5912, M-F: 8AM-4:30PM
  • Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and Title IX Coordinator: Cortney Matuszak, J.D., 524 Old Main 30 N. Brainard (630) 637-5340 cmatuszak@noctrl.edu
  • Sexual Misconduct/Title IX Online Reporting Form: The online reporting form for discrimination, harassment, sexual misconduct and retaliation can be located in “The Hub”

Online reports can be made by employees, individuals impacted by sexual misconduct or third-parties, and will be reviewed by the Assistant Vice President for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and responded to within 24 hours. Individuals who have experienced sexual misconduct will receive a Title IX outreach letter with a copy of this policy that outlines their options, resources, and rights:

  • Individuals who have experienced sexual misconduct will receive a Title IX outreach letter with a copy of this policy that outlines their options, resources, and rights

In addition to the above resources, The Campus Conduct Hotline service can be used for any type of reporting and the caller can remain completely anonymous. This hotline can be used for reporting Title IX violations, sexual harassment, student/staff behavior, financial irregularities, complaints, etc. Any member of the North Central community (faculty, staff, or student) may report a serious complaint or concern to the following:

  • Campus Conduct Hotline at (866) 943-5787

Online reports can be made by anyone, including witnesses or individuals who have been impacted by the bias-related incident. Bias incident reports will be reviewed by the Bias Incident Response Team (BIRT) and the Assistant Vice President of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.

Student Appeals

Grade Appeals: North Central College faculty members enjoy academic freedom to craft courses and grade work in a manner consistent with their expertise and North Central College policies. A faculty member’s professional judgment is presumed to be accurate. Except for clerical errors or miscalculations, grades will be changed only in extremely rare instances. Any student who believes that the final grade received in a course does not reflect the quality of the work performed has the right to meet with the instructor of the course and be given a review of the manner in which the grade was determined. Either the student, the instructor, or both may bring a third party to this meeting. If the student is not satisfied with the outcome of the meeting, the student may appeal the instructor's decision to the MSPAS Program Director. The Program Director will consult with the instructor and determine whether a grade change is appropriate or a basis for appeal. Bases for appeal are as follows:

  1. Deviation from the course syllabus in a way that disadvantages the student.
  2. Evidence of capricious assessment or implementation of class policy.

The Program Director may recommend a grade change.

Any student who disagrees with the Program Director may subsequently appeal to the Dean of Education and Health Sciences. Appeal of a grade issued in a course taught by the Program Director will be made directly to the Dean of Education and Health Sciences. Grade appeals must be made in writing within a seven-day period following the last day of the term in which the grade was received and include the following items: 1) a brief explanation of the circumstances, rooted in one of the two criteria for appeal noted above, 2) a copy of the course syllabus, and 3) copies of relevant materials such as graded work or email correspondence with the institution.

Unprofessional Behavior Citation Appeals: Students who wish to appeal a decision by the SPC committee regarding an unprofessional citation, or cannot agree with the terms of the remediation, may appeal the decision in writing to the Program Director within seven days of receipt of the citation. If the Program Director upholds the decision, the student may appeal in writing to the Dean of Education and Health Sciences within seven days, who will adjudicate appeals of such cases. In all appeals, the student must present a petition in writing and appear for a meeting with the Program Director and/or Dean of Education and Health Sciences. The student's advisor may be asked to be present. (2025-2026 North Central College Student Handbook)

The student may appeal any decision/recommendation of the SPC or Program Director to the Dean of Education and Health Sciences. If the Dean upholds the SPC and Program Director’s decision, the student may appeal to the Chief Academic Officer, the Provost who will be the final arbiter.

Student Travel to Required Rotation Sites

Rotations are typically scheduled anywhere within 60 miles of North Central College and the student is expected to incur the expense of travel to and from the rotation site, meals and/or housing if not scheduled for one of the provided housing options. On the rare occasion, if the program cannot locate a rotation within the 60-mile radius, alternative housing will be provided by the program. Should this occur, only housing expenses will be covered. Married students, students with children, and students with pets are not exempt from travelling outside the 60-mile radius to secure a rotation.

To optimize the use of available clinical education resources and assure variety within each student’s clinical education schedules, students may need to travel within a 60-mile radius of North Central College’s campus for full-time clinical education experiences. The MSPAS program will attempt to mitigate travel through a match system-allowing the students to complete most of their rotations at the same hospital system when possible. Once the clinical education schedule or match is finalized, due to credentialing issues students cannot change the type of experience or facility selected. However, facilities have the right to change their availability and type of experience at any time.

North Central College does not offer any international experiences for core-clinical or elective rotations outside of the United States.

Student Employment and Solicitation of Clinical Sites

The Physician Assistant curriculum has been designed to be a full-time activity for students. It consists of a very demanding course load with a great deal of time spent in class and in clinical experiences.  There are also many special seminars, films and guest lecturers that may be available to students on relatively short notice. We encourage you to seek outside sources of financial support (scholarships, loans, etc.) so that you may devote as much time as possible to your professional education. Employment is strongly discouraged.   

Physician Assistant students must not perform service work within the Physician Assistant Program and will not be substituted for instructional faculty, administrative or clinical staff. Students are also prohibited from substituting for clerical and/or clinical personnel at clinical rotations. If asked to do so, the student must respectfully decline and inform the program immediately. While enrolled in the program, a student must not serve as a formal instructor to other enrolled students. Solicitation and development of clinical sites is the responsibility of the program and the sponsoring institution, not the student.

Identification of Students from other Health Care Professionals in the Clinical Setting 

Students must introduce themselves as PA students to patients and health care professionals in the clinical setting. Moreover, the student must always provide proper identification as a North Central MSPAS student during a supervised clinical practice experience, through an appropriate ID badge and short white medical coat with the corresponding PA program student patch. 

Immunization and Health Screening

Due to concerns for patient safety, North Central MSPAS students must be compliant with current CDC recommendations for health professionals.  https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/index.html. Students may use the Dyson Wellness Center Immunization Record and upload their immunization record to EXXAT. Prior to matriculation, students must deliver immunization records to the Dyson Wellness Center within the first week of class. All North Central MSPAS students must be current with the following by the first day of class: 

  • Hepatitis B - titer (antigen and antibody) demonstrating immunity
  • MMR – titer demonstrating immunity
  • Varicella – titer demonstrating immunity
  • Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis – Documentation of the completed primary series of immunizations to include boosters every 10 years.
  • If the student has not received Tdap previously, they must get a one-time dose of Tdap prior to the first day of class
  • Influenza – flu vaccine will be required annually after October 1st.
  • Proof of COVID-19 vaccination (recommended but not required)
  • Additional immunizations and serologies may be required of various sites during the clinical year. 

All immunizations must be completed by matriculation and prior to the first day of their supervised clinical practice experience (SCPE) during the clinical year. Should titers not show immunologic protection, repeat titers and immunizations can be delivered to the student for a cost at the Dyson Wellness Center. All confidential health information on students is kept securely on EXXAT and the student immunization form at the Dyson Wellness Center.   

Certain clinical sites may require that students update their health record prior to starting at that clinical site. The program will notify students of any necessary procedures to meet such requirements. Students must comply with all clinical site health maintenance requirements in order to remain in good standing in the program. Any students who do not comply with program immunization/titer or clinical site health maintenance requirements can be recommended to the Student Progress Committee professionalism alert.

A student who does not have current immunizations acknowledges that s/he/they is/are entering the program knowing that s/he/they may not be able to attend clinical assignments and may not be able to graduate from the program.

Students must give their consent to North Central College to both maintain and release to clinical sites their immunization status. This release form must be uploaded to EXXAT. 

Tuberculosis (TB) Testing Policy

Students must have baseline screening for TB with a QuantiFERON-TB Gold or Interferon-Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) blood test prior to matriculation and before the start of the Clinical Year. Testing must be done within one year before matriculation and again before the start of clinical rotations. Proof of a QuantiFERON-TB Gold or IGRA blood test must be on file with EXXAT and the Dyson Wellness Center. Testing can be done through Quest Labs at the Dyson Wellness Center at the student’s expense. Immunization records, serology and QuantiFERON-TB Gold/IGRA testing data must be uploaded to EXXAT. 

Physical Exam Policy

Students must have documentation of a physical examination within 6 months prior to matriculation. The program does not want or need details of this exam, but rather documentation that this occurred. This documentation must be uploaded to EXXAT prior to matriculation.

Criminal Background/Sex Offender (CBSO) Policy

Any individual who regularly provides direct services to patient populations that are generally deemed “vulnerable” or “special” must submit to a Criminal Background/Sex Offender (CBSO) check in order to obtain and maintain clinical privileges. As such, students must pass a CBSO check, using the program’s approved vendor, prior to matriculation into the program and another background check prior to beginning the clinical education phase of the program. Additional background checks may be required as requested by clinical sites. Students are financially responsible for the background checks. Instructions for requesting the background check and appropriate consent forms are provided to students. Results of the background check that indicate a criminal conviction may be shared with applicable clinical sites so that they may make a determination about student eligibility. 

Results that limit the program’s ability to secure clinical experiences may prevent a student from being promoted to the clinical education phase or recommended for graduation. If ​any false information is given regarding drug use or criminal offenses in any documents relating to their admission or attendance, if findings of a grievous nature are revealed, ​or if a student declines to undergo a background check while enrolled in the program, this will be grounds for dismissal from the program. Acceptance into and successful completion of the North Central College MSPAS program does not imply or guarantee that the student will be able to obtain state licensure upon graduation. The Program does not accept responsibility for any student being ineligible for coursework, continued enrollment in the program, or subsequent licensure as a physician assistant for any reason, including failure to pass a CBSO check.  

Students are required to self-report involvement in any incident, which may appear as part of a criminal background within 48 hours of the incident to the Program Director. This includes any criminal offense, drug or alcohol related misdemeanor, felony or pending adjudications. Students failing to self-report may be subject to referral reported to the Program Director and SPC committee for unprofessional behavior and possibly referred to the Committee for Graduate Academic Standing for immediate dismissal.   

Drug Screening Urinalysis Policy

Any individual who regularly provides direct services to patient populations that are generally deemed “vulnerable” or “special” must submit to a Drug Screening Urinalysis in order to obtain and maintain clinical privileges. As such, students must pass a 12-panel drug screen, using the program’s approved vendor, prior to matriculation into the program and another drug screen prior to beginning the clinical education phase of the program. Students are financially responsible for the pre-admission and pre-clinical phase drug screens.   

The consequences of chemical impairment are considerable, especially in circumstances in which patient care activities are conducted. Should a student self-report difficulty with drug or alcohol impairment to a faculty member or the Program, it is considered an illness for which rehabilitative efforts will be offered, and the student is protected by the college’s Medical Amnesty, Counseling and Treatment Policy. The program will work with the Dyson Wellness Center to coordinate treatment for all cases of substance abuse involving students 

The program regards student misuse or abuse of chemical substances as misconduct subject to disciplinary action including dismissal from the program. The following represent policies that would necessitate an additional drug screen: 

  • As requested by certain clinical sites
  • Programmatic or clinical site suspicion of chemical impairment or abuse
  • If a student is selected for a random screening, the student must complete the screening within 24 hours.
  • If the random drug screening request is received on a Friday, it must be completed by the next business day.  

Alcohol or drug screening requested by the program or clinical site preceptor represents a serious breach of professional behavior requiring investigation, and additional testing costs will be the financial responsibility of the student. 

Medical Amnesty, Counseling and Treatment

Students who would like more information on alcohol, drugs, and the affects thereof, are encouraged to contact the staff in the Dyson Wellness Center. Students experiencing difficulties with alcohol or drug use can talk with a staff member in Student Affairs or the Dyson Wellness Center. Short-term alcohol and other drug counseling is available on campus to students through the Dyson Wellness Center (630-637-5550). Students may be referred to other treatment programs for more intensive treatment. The safety and well-being of students is of primary importance to North Central College. Each student plays an important role in creating a safe, healthy and responsible community. The College understands that the potential for disciplinary action as a result of an alcohol or drug-related incident may be a deterrent to students who might seek emergency medical assistance for themselves or others. Because the College wants students to seek assistance promptly in the event of a health or safety emergency involving alcohol or drug use, a policy of medical amnesty has been adopted as part of a comprehensive approach to reduce the harmful effects of substance use. 

A. If a student seeks help in a medical emergency (by calling 911 or Campus Safety at 630-637-5911), the College will not take disciplinary action for possession, consumption, or being in the presence of alcohol or drugs against: 1) A student who initiates a request for medical assistance for oneself; 2) A student who initiates a request for medical assistance for another student; and/or 3) The student for whom medical assistance is sought.  

B. Any student(s) afforded amnesty under this policy will be required to meet with the Program Director, Student Progress Committee (SPC) committee and staff from the Office of Student Affairs for a formal review of the incident. Failure to attend this required meeting will result in the revocation of the amnesty. The outcome of this meeting may be a counseling or health assessment, or other educationally appropriate interventions.    

C. While no formal disciplinary action will be taken in cases that meet the conditions of this policy, the Program Director and Student Progress Committee, as well as the College staff will document the incident and follow up accordingly. Repeated incidents or intentional abuse of this policy may result in parental notification and/or disciplinary action.    

D. This policy does not preclude disciplinary action regarding all other behaviors prohibited in the Student Handbook, including but not limited to sexual misconduct, hazing, conduct that endangers, damage, vandalism, and the unlawful provision or distribution of alcohol or drugs. 

Infectious and Environmental Hazards

Universal precautions must be carried out in all research and educational laboratories. All students must receive training in universal precautions prior to any patient care activities. The North Central MSPAS program offers official Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) training to all students on an annual basis, prior to matriculation into the program and before starting the clinical year. On occasion, a clinical facility with whom the program maintains an agreement for clinical education will require that the facility provide the necessary OSHA training to participate in clinical activities at that facility. This would apply to participants who have been trained elsewhere. If so, the program will schedule opportunities for the student to participate in training at the facility.  

In the event that a student has an exposure to an infectious agent or an environmental hazard-flush the area with copious amounts of water; wash the exposed site with soap and water as appropriate. The student’s health insurance is responsible for:  

If the exposure occurs on campus (i.e. lab setting): 

  • Notify supervising faculty immediately and call the Dyson Wellness Center as soon as possible and seek further direction.
  • If the exposure occurs on campus after hours, go to the nearest emergency room.
  • Complete incident report and submit to Program Director and PA Program Coordinator. 

If the exposure occurs at a clinical site (SCPE): 

  • Notify the preceptor immediately and follow their direction for seeking care – the office to contact will vary by site, but is usually Infection Control, Employee/Occupational Health or the Emergency Department.
  • Complete in detail an Incident Report at the site where the exposure occurred and submit it to the Program Director and Director of Clinical Education.
  • If a form is not available for an Incident Report – write a Memorandum for the Record with the facts of what happened and any action you have taken. Notify the Program Director and Director of Clinical Education. Be aware that the financial costs incurred in the case of an infectious or environmental hazard injury may fall entirely on the student and/or the student’s health insurance. 

Fiscal Responsibility for Infectious or Environmental Hazards

All full-time students are required to carry health insurance coverage while attending North Central College. Health insurance information must be kept on file and up to date. Students must upload proof of health insurance to the EXXAT website before the first day of class. 

Students are responsible for initiating care and obtaining recommended follow up after injury or exposure to environmental hazards. Injuries which occur at clinical sites and any costs associated with an incident are not covered or reimbursed by the College. All infectious and environmental hazards that require care are the fiscal responsibility of the student and can be billed to their health insurance.

Latex and Environmental Allergy Policy

Environmental allergies are commonplace. Latex and iodine products are extremely common in the medical environment. Students with a history of latex or iodine allergy may be at risk for future severe reactions upon exposure to latex products.  

Any student with a known latex or iodine allergy, or having or describing symptoms consistent with latex or iodine allergy, is advised to consult a qualified allergist for evaluation. Such evaluation is at the student’s expense. Any student found to be latex or iodine allergic must determine whether or not to continue with PA training, acknowledging the risk even after reasonable precautions are taken and accommodations are made. If such a student elects to continue in training, the student must realize that he/she assumes any responsibility and risk posed by allergic reactions, which can range from mild symptoms to anaphylaxis and death. In the event such an allergy is present, either intentional or inadvertent exposure to latex and/or or iodine related products may lead to these consequences.  

Students who are allergic to latex, iodine, or other substances commonly found in medical settings are advised to confer with Student Disability Services to identify accommodations that will enable them to participate in programs and activities that involve potential exposure to such environmental allergens. Students who have such allergies must provide medical certification of the allergy, including a description of any associated limitations. Although the program will implement reasonable, appropriate accommodations to provide learning environments free from environmental allergens, it may not be able to completely eliminate the potential for exposure in every instance. Furthermore, we cannot guarantee a latex-free or iodine-free environment at every clinical training site. For further information, please contact Student Disability Services.

Prohibition of Faculty and Staff to Provide Healthcare to Students

The NC MSPAS program is a relationship-based program and one that recognizes and prioritizes student wellness. The programmatic faculty and staff (principal faculty, program director and medical director) are prohibited to act as health care providers for students in the program, with exception in cases of emergency situations.

Psychologically Safe and Healthy Learning Environment

The NC MPAS program is committed to the principle that educational relationships should be one of mutual respect between teacher and learner. Because the MSPAS program trains individuals who are entrusted with the lives and well-being of others, we have unique responsibilities to assure that students learn as members of a community of scholars in an environment that is conducive to learning. The program supports timely access to services addressing personal issues that may impact their progress in the PA program. One such policy is a commitment to a psychologically safe learning environment. Students are encouraged to bring attention to any breach or perceived breach of the program’s commitment to the safety and health of your learning environment to our attention immediately. The following are included in the promotion of a safe and healthy learning environment: 

  • Faculty and Staff Training
  • Dyson Wellness Center
  • Student and Faculty Grievance
  • Campus Safety
  • Violence Prevention 

Student Distress Policy

The NC MSPAS program is a relationship-based program and one that recognizes and prioritizes student wellness. Although the faculty cannot participate as health care providers for students in the program, except in cases of emergency situations, the faculty and staff recognize the importance of students’ timely access and referral to services to address personal issues which may impact their progress in the program. All students are welcome to access the Dyson Wellness Center for any health-related issues. Regarding behavioral health related issues, faculty and staff have been instructed in and given resources to help them identify signs of academic, behavioral, physical and interpersonal signs of distress in their students. Although the NC Mentoring System gives an added layer of protection and relationship to their students to help facilitate help in times of need, students are welcome to reach out to any faculty or staff member in times of distress or personal problems that may influence their progress in the program. Faculty and Staff have been instructed to follow NC policies and respond to students who are in distress in the following ways: 

  1. Speak directly and privately  

Students and faculty are encouraged to reach out to and speak directly and compassionately when you sense that they are in distress. Both faculty and students will openly acknowledge that they are aware of other's distress, that they are sincerely concerned about other's welfare and are willing to help those in need explore their options to seek help. 

  1. Offer resources 

Faculty are knowledgeable about campus resources and can ease a student’s discomfort about seeking help. Faculty will let the student know that they are concerned about them and their well-being. Faculty will assist the student obtaining a referral, displaying their support for students in need to get expert assistance. Faculty or staff will be instructed to follow-up to ensure that students are getting the help they need.

  1. Consult and report to a campus resource 

Depending on the nature of the distress and effect on student progression in the program, faculty and staff are instructed to consult with the Program Director and submit an alert for review by the Student Progress Committee. Other departments that may respond to students in distress include the following: Campus Safety, Office of Student Affairs, Early Alert, Dyson Wellness Center, Academic Affairs, and Center for Student Success. 

In addition to the above resources, the Campus Conduct Hotline service can be used for any type of reporting and the caller can remain completely anonymous. This hotline can be used for reporting Title IX violations, sexual harassment, student/staff behavior, financial irregularities, complaints, etc. Any member of the North Central community (faculty, staff, or student) may report a serious complaint or concern to the following: 

Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (P.A.) Program

The North Central College Master's Degree Physician Assistant program will prepare our diverse students to become competent medical providers who deliver humane, patient and relationship-centered primary care in collaboration with healthcare professionals while developing future leaders committed to community service, life-long learning and advancement of the PA profession. 

MSPAS Logo