For Immediate Release
[Bethany, Oklahoma] - Southern Nazarene University (SNU) is gearing up to make a significant impact in the healthcare field. The university is excited to introduce its new Physician Assistant (PA) Program, slated to launch in January 2025. Graduates of the program will receive a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. As one of only a few PA programs available in Oklahoma, this new initiative promises to offer unparalleled opportunities for aspiring healthcare professionals in the region.
To support the program's ambitious goals, SNU has invested in a stunning, state-of-the-art facility. The facility will span 12,000 square feet on its main campus in Bethany, near Oklahoma City. This expansive space is designed to provide a comprehensive educational experience, blending modern technology with hands-on learning opportunities.
The new facility will feature cutting-edge classrooms, simulation labs, and clinical skills areas to ensure that students receive the highest quality education. The program will also offer clinical rotations at top healthcare facilities in the area, giving students valuable real-world experience. With a focus on interprofessional collaboration and patient-centered care, graduates of the PA Program at SNU will be well-equipped to meet the growing demand for healthcare providers in Oklahoma and beyond.
Physician Assistant Program Director Dr. Mark Moran commented, “Training facilities set the background for the student's experience. SNU has invested heavily in these facilities and is thereby richly investing in each student that trains in the PA program.”
A Hub of Innovation and Learning
The new PA program facilities are set to be a cornerstone of SNU’s commitment to excellence in healthcare education. The dedicated space includes cutting-edge classrooms, well-equipped labs, and specialized clinical areas. The facilities will provide students with first-rate opportunities to train in clinical practice and patient care with resources meticulously designed to foster a deep understanding of medical sciences and practical skills essential for the PA profession.
Advanced Labs and Simulation Spaces
One of the most exciting features of the new facilities is the shared anatomy and simulation lab spaces. These labs will be equipped with the latest technology, allowing students to engage in realistic simulations and hands-on practice. From detailed anatomical models to high-fidelity simulation mannequins, these resources will enhance students' learning experiences and better prepare them for real-world medical scenarios.
Comprehensive Student Support Areas
In addition to the technical and clinical spaces, the new PA program area also includes dedicated student spaces. These areas are designed to offer a supportive and collaborative environment where students can study, work together on projects, and engage in academic discussions. By providing these essential spaces, SNU aims to create a well-rounded educational experience that supports both the academic and personal growth of its students.
A Bright Future for Healthcare Education
The launch of SNU’s PA Program is a significant milestone for both the university and the broader Oklahoma community. With the shortage of PA programs in the state, this initiative not only addresses a critical need but also positions SNU as a leader in advancing healthcare education.
The investment in state-of-the-art facilities underscores Southern Nazarene University’s dedication to providing top-notch education and training for future healthcare professionals. As the program prepares to welcome its first cohort in January 2025, students and faculty alike are eager to embrace the opportunities that these new spaces will provide.
*SNU has applied for Accreditation-Provisional from the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA). SNU anticipates matriculating its first class in January 2025, pending achievement of Accreditation-Provisional status at the September 2024 ARC-PA meeting.
Accreditation-Provisional is an accreditation status granted when the plans and resource allocation, if fully implemented as planned, of a proposed program that has not yet enrolled students appear to demonstrate the program’s ability to meet the ARC-PA Standards or when a program holding accreditation-provisional status appears to demonstrate continued progress in complying with the Standards as it prepares for the graduation of the first class (cohort) of students.
SNU is making every effort to meet all ARC-PA accreditation standards for the purpose of achieving Accreditation-Provisional status. In the event that ARC-PA does not award Accreditation-Provisional status to the program, SNU will not matriculate students. In this scenario, the program's CASPA profile will be closed and all applicants will be notified. SNU will refund money received directly from the student: specifically, university application fees, seat deposit fees, and tuition. SNU will not refund CASPA fees or costs associated with onsite interviewing with the program.
Pending accreditation provisional approval, SNU PA program graduates will be eligible to take the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) and subsequently qualify for application for licensure in all U.S. states and territories. Some states may have additional requirements for licensure separate from the PA education. Individual graduates are responsible for achieving state-specific requirements not specific to PA training.