Physician Assistant
Master of Science in Physician Assistant
South University’s Master of Science in Physician Assistant is designed to provide students with effective learning opportunities that will prepare them to perform their expected competencies in an ethical, legal, safe and effective manner upon graduation. The Physician Assistant program instills fundamental medical concepts, provides students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking necessary to achieve clinical competence as medical professionals who will serve as valued members of the healthcare team. Physician assistants perform medical functions that include, but are not limited to, evaluation, monitoring, diagnostics, therapeutics, counseling, and referral. The scope of practice varies according to state laws, the medical setting, and the experience of the physician assistant.
South University Physician Assistant Program graduates are eligible to pursue national certification by sitting for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) developed by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). Please see the Professional Licensure Disclosure in the South University Academic Catalog for the determinations if our program meets the professional licensure requirements in your state of residence.
Graduates are required to sit for and pass the national certification exam and obtain a state license in order to work in the field. (Exam names vary by program) Please refer to the State Professional Licensure Determination and National Certification/Licensure section of the University catalog for program and state specific information. South University cannot guarantee each graduate will pass the required licensure examinations. Outside agencies control the requirements for taking and passing certification/licensing exams and are subject to change without notice to South University. Students must pass the required licensure to work in their respective field.
*South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment, or salary amounts.
Accreditation Review Commission on Education for Physician Assistant
The ARC-PA has granted Accreditation-Provisional status to the South University, Austin Physician Assistant Program sponsored by South University, Austin.
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.
Accreditation-Provisional does not ensure any subsequent accreditation status. It is limited to no more than five years from matriculation of the first class. The program’s accreditation history can be viewed on the ARC-PA website at https://www.arc-pa.org/accreditation-history-south-university-austin/.
Admissions Requirements
Procedure for Admission to the Master in Science Physician Assistant (MSPA) Program
Entrance to the Master of Science in Physician Assistant (MSPA) program is gained through a formal application review and an interview. Application to the program is made through the Central Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA). Applicants must specifically designate the South University campus(es) to which their application should be submitted within the CASPA system.
A completed application must be submitted through CASPA in order to be reviewed by any of the South University campuses. The application cycle for the January start will begin in April annually. The deadline for all application materials to be complete* in the CASPA application portal is September 1st annually.
To apply for the Master of Science in Physician Assistant degree program at South University, Austin, individuals must:
- Complete CASPA online Applications including submission of all transcripts and GRE scores.
- Official GRE scores for the General Test (verbal, quantitative, and written essay) are required to be electronically submitted to CASPA through ETS (Educational Testing Service) using the Austin program GRE Code: 0174. Paper copies are not accepted.
*This is the date your application became complete and was placed in the verification queue. Your complete date is the day your final required item - a transcript, reference letter, payment, or e-submitted application - posted to your CASPA account.
**Please do not send transcripts directly to South University. Transcripts should be sent to CASPA.
Individuals whose applications are deemed competitive will be invited for a required interview. Therefore, those who apply early in the admission cycle are more likely to be granted an interview than those who apply later. Each program concludes interviews for the admissions cycle upon filling all available seats. Not all qualified applicants will receive an interview.
Students who are offered a seat in the Physician Assistant program are only permitted to reserve a seat at one campus. Within 14 days of the applicant signing and submitting the acceptance form, it is the responsibility of the applicant to notify any other South University Physician Assistant program(s) of his/her intent to withdraw. Seat acceptance fees are non-transferable to other South University programs.
Note: Applicants should refer to the Physician Assistant Program policy on Acceptance Fee for more details.
Admission Criteria
Selection for the Master of Science in Physician Assistant program is highly competitive. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee an interview or admission. Successful applicants will generally exceed the minimum criteria. The following criteria represent the minimum conditions established for students interested in applying to the South University Master of Science in Physician Assistant degree program:
- Applicants must have an earned bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution-no later than August 1st of the year they apply.
- Applicants must have an overall GPA as calculated by the CASPA service of 3.0 or greater (on a 4.0 scale) (including undergraduate, post-baccalaureate, and graduate coursework).
- Applicants should have a Biology-Chemistry-Physics (BCP) science GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) as calculated by the CASPA service.
- Applicants must submit scores from the GRE general exam directly to the CASPA service using the South University PA program code 0174.
- At least three letters of reference on the CASPA application must be submitted
- At least one reference on the CASPA application must be from a physician (MD/DO), Physician Assistant, or Nurse Practitioner with whom the applicant has worked or shadowed and to whom the applicant is not related. Impressive, well- articulated, and unequivocal letters attesting to the applicant’s motivation, communication and interpersonal skills, professionalism, and future contribution towards health care are considered competitive.
Clinical Experience
Clinical experiences should provide the applicant with a knowledge of and orientation to the presentation, signs, and symptoms of a variety of ill or injured patients. Although clinical experience is not required, preference is given to applicants who have direct patient care experience (i.e., care that involves personal interaction with patients such as: physical therapist, respiratory therapist, emergency medical technician/paramedic, nurse, medical assistant, or certified nursing assistant, or other similar professions). However, there is no requirement for a predetermined number of hours (or months) of health care experience to be earned by an applicant.
Admissions Committee Selection Factors
Applicants for admission are considered and ranked using multiple factors. Applicants are awarded preference points based upon the following selection factors:
Academic achievement (overall GPA, BCP, GRE).
- Preference will be given to those with GRE scores (Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning) at the 50th percentile or above.
- Preference will be given to those with an overall GPA at or above 3.3.
- Preference will be given to those with a prerequisite Biology-Chemistry-Physics (BCP) GPA at or above 3.15 (on a 4.0 scale) as calculated by the CASPA service.
Quality of letters of reference from medical providers (e.g., MD, DO, NP, PA).
- References from Physician Assistants (PAs) are preferred.
Clinical experience that requires direct patient care.
- Preference is given to applicants with clinical experience that requires direct patient care, such as: physical therapist, respiratory therapist, emergency medical technician (EMT), paramedic, nurse, medical assistant, or certified nursing assistant (CNA).
Personal statement/essay.
Healthcare provider mentorship/shadowing experiences.
Community service.
Interview performance.
Evidence of an applicant’s interpersonal skills, problem-solving ability, professionalism, motivation, academic potential, communication, knowledge of the PA profession and the health care system with an alignment to the mission and vision of the program are assessed by the Admissions committee in awarding preference. The Master of Science in Physician Assistant Program adheres to the South University Non-discrimination policy.
Post-Acceptance Requirements
Accepted applicants will be required to complete the following items in order to obtain approval for matriculation in January:
- Satisfactory Criminal Background and Drug Screen Report
- Health/Immunization Requirements
- Health Insurance Documentation
- Baccalaureate Diploma Verification
- FAFSA application (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) submission for those applying for financial aid
Applicants seeking admissions to the Physician Assistant program must abide by the College of Health Professions Background Check Policy and Substance Abuse and Screening Policy. Acceptance into a South University program or its completion does not guarantee that a student will be able to obtain subsequent licensure or certification.
All Physician Assistant program students are responsible for meeting matriculation deadlines and requirements as published within the campus-specific Enrollment Guide. There is a $1000 acceptance fee, which is non-refundable, for those applicants accepted into the Physician Assistant program at South University, Austin. Acceptance fees are applied towards tuition.
If you have questions in regard to the Application Process, please contact the Austin Master of Science in Physician Assistant program office by email at
kmcdonald@southuniversity.edu.
Prerequisites
Prerequisite Courses
Applicants must complete all prerequisite courses listed below with a grade of C or better at a regionally accredited U.S. college or university prior to submission of his/her application. The PA program accepts prerequisite coursework completed in an online, virtual, or on-ground format from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university.
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PREREQUISITE |
DURATION |
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Required |
Anatomy and Physiology
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2 courses (sequenced)
OR
No course substitutions are accepted for this requirement. |
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General Biology |
2 courses Required:
Alternative Substitution for Biology II ONLY:
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|
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General Chemistry and Labs |
2 courses Required:
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|
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Microbiology with Lab |
1 course No course substitutions are accepted for this requirement. |
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Organic Chemistry or Biochemistry |
1 course Lab recommended, not required. |
In general, prerequisite coursework with titles that include "Essentials of," "Survey of," or "Introductory to," unless specifically designed for science majors, are considered less competitive.
Basic science courses should be those for science majors. The General Biology and Biochemistry courses are recommended to include a lab, but it is not required.
Only courses (excluding General Biology, Biochemistry, and Organic Chemistry) with an associated lab will be given credit for fulfilling prerequisite requirements. In the event that a laboratory is not offered with a prerequisite course, applicants may request the lab requirement for that course be waived by contacting the program. Lab waivers and/or course substitutions are granted at the discretion of the Admissions Committee. Applicants requesting such should be prepared to submit supporting documents, including, but not limited to, course descriptions and syllabi.
The South University Master of Science in Physician Assistant program accepts credit for Advanced Placement (AP) courses. AP courses taken and successfully completed will be counted as one course credit towards completion of the respective prerequisite subject. Grades earned in AP courses are not used in the calculation of the applicant's overall or prerequisite GPA.
The South University Master of Science in Physician Assistant program does not accept College Level Examination Program (CLEP) credit for any prerequisite requirements.
South University Master of Science in Physician Assistant programs do not accept a transfer of credits from other physician assistant programs or provide enrolled students with a waiver of credit (i.e., advanced placement) for any component of the required curricular coursework. Please review the
Transfer of Credit policy for more information. All students must complete each course in the South University Master of Science in Physician Assistant curriculum.
Admissions Calendar
Admissions Cycle Calendar
April
CASPA begins accepting applications for matriculation the next year in late April.
June - November
Admissions Interviews
September 1
Application deadline for which application must be in “Complete” status with CASPA for matriculation the following year.
January
Classes begin
Curriculum
Didactic Phase Total: 100 Credits
Clinical Phase Total: 74
The courses below are offered on an as needed basis:
No physician assistant credits from another institution may transfer into the didactic or clinical phase. Master of Science in Physician Assistant students must complete the entire 27-month program (174 credit hours) at South University.
Program Goals
The following are program goals for the South University, Austin Physician Assistant program:
- The program aims to foster a culture of inclusivity and equity for students, faculty, and staff by means of education and resources.
- The program will strive to adequately prepare graduating students to achieve a first-time pass rate that exceeds the national average upon completion of the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE).
- The program will provide opportunities for local community service and outreach that foster commitment to reducing health disparities.
Please click HERE for information on our Physician Assistant program and effectiveness in achieving program goals.
(Note: Requirements for NCCPA Certification are determined by the NCCPA and are subject to change without notification to South University. Graduation from the South University, Austin Physician Assistant program does not guarantee certification or employment.)
PANCE Certification and Attrition
Graduates of an accredited Physician Assistant program must pass the national Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) in order to acquire state licensure to practice. The exam is administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) and assesses the clinical knowledge, clinical reasoning and other medical skills and professional behaviors that have been deemed important for entry-level practice as a PA.
Click the link below to view the pass rates of South University, Austin students.View PANCE pass rates of South University, Austin students.
South University does not guarantee third-party certification/licensure. Outside agencies control the requirements for taking and passing certification/licensing exams and are subject to change without notice to South University.
Student Attrition
To view the South University, Austin PA program student attrition information, please click HERE.
Tuition and Fees
Estimated Tuition for the Master of Science in Physician Assistant (MSPA) Degree
Per quarter: $10,856.00
Total tuition: $97,704.00
Required Fees for the MSPA Degree
Acceptance Fee: $1,000.00 (Non-refundable/Applied to Tuition)
Registration Fees: $225.00 ($25 per term)
Graduation Fee: $250.00
Digital Textbook Fees: $2,610.00 ($15 per credit hour)
Technology Fee: $3,480.00 ($20 per credit hour)
Clinical Experience Fee: $9,000.00 ($1,000.00 per quarter)
Other Estimated Costs for the MSPA Degree
(South University will not charge for these costs. They are the student's responsibility.)
Professional Instruments: $1,100.00 (Approximate)
Surgical Scrubs: $100.00 (Approximate)
Laptop Computer and privacy screen: $1,500.00 (Approximate)
Background Check: $800.00 (Additional fees may apply to the base package fee contingent upon credentialing requirements of the hospital.)(Approximate)
State Association Fees: $105.00 ($35 per year) (Approximate, can vary by state)
American Heart Association approved BLS: $100.00 (Approximate)
Estimated Total for the MSPA Degree
Tuition and Fees: $117,049.00
Tuition and fees are subject to change. The tuition for in-state and out-of-state residents is the same. Acceptance fee is non-refundable and upon acceptance is applied toward the student’s tuition. If a student decides not to attend after accepting, the fee will not be refunded.
All students are required to have a laptop computer with wireless internet access for use in the multimedia classroom. Purchase of these items is not recommended prior to acceptance into the program because of these very specific requirements.
Inclusive in Tuition, Technology, and Digital Resources
Students obtain access to the following digital platforms:
- Lecturio, Rosh Review, Up-To-Date
- AccessMedicine, AccessPharmacy, AccessAnesthesiology, Case Files Collection
- Complete Anatomy 3D4, My EKG Lab
- Butterfly Ultrasound Technology
- PANCE Board Review in person sessions and digital test bank questions
- CORE clinical logging and portfolio resources
- PAEA End of Rotation Exams, End of Curriculum Exams, PACKRAT1 and PACKRAT2
- PAVMT (PAs in Virtual Medicine and Telemedicine) up-to-date medical technology trends
- LinkedIn Learning
- Bright Space Learning Management System
- ExamSoft Testing platform
Clinical Experience fees support the recruitment of clinical sites across the nation, strengthen the quality of the learning experience, and subsidize the increasing costs of clinical sites.
Payment of Tuition and Fees
All charges are due and payable on or before the registration date for each quarter. Circumstances which prevent a student from adhering to these dates should be discussed with the financial aid office. Students attending school under grants and/or loans should confer with the financial aid office concerning payment of fees. Students attending school under the G.I. Bill may discuss payment of school fees with the Director of Financial Aid. Failure to make proper payments, unless otherwise cleared by the financial aid office, will result in dismissal from the university. Grades will not be issued, degrees granted, or academic transcripts furnished until all financial obligations have been satisfied and all university property returned. For refund policies, please see the academic catalog HERE.
Policies and procedures for student withdrawal, refunds of tuition and fees, policies that limit or prevent students from working during the program and policies and procedures for processing student grievances can be found in the South University catalog.
Student Handbook and Employment
For the South University, Austin Master of Science in Physician Assistant (MSPA) program Student Handbook please click HERE. All Physician Assistant program policies apply to all students, principal faculty, and the program director regardless of location, i.e., didactic and clinical settings.
Student Employment
Due to the rigorous nature of the Physician Assistant program, employment during a student's course of training is strongly discouraged.
Employment must never interfere with academic or clinical assignments.
At no time is a South University Physician Assistant student allowed to or required to work for the South University Physician Assistant program or program clinical sites.
Career Outlook
When you have completed your degree program, you will be able to work* as a Physician Assistant in a variety of settings.
*South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment, or salary amounts.
Graduates are required to sit for and pass the national certification exam and obtain a state license in order to work in the field. (Exam names vary by program) Please refer to the State Professional Licensure Determination and National Certification/Licensure section of the University catalog for program and state specific information. South University cannot guarantee each graduate will pass the required licensure examinations. Outside agencies control the requirements for taking and passing certification/licensing exams and are subject to change without notice to South University. Students must pass the required licensure to work in their respective field.
Physician Assistant at South University
South University is committed to creating career opportunities for our students, so we provide the relevant coursework for you to meet your career goals in a position as a Physician Assistant as well as the ethical and legal competencies and effective communication skills that are integral for this profession. In addition, we instill the value of continued education in our students so you can continue to create more opportunities for success in your career.
Mission and Vision
Physician Assistant Program
Mission Statement
The mission of the South University Physician Assistant (MSPA) is to educate a diverse student population and prepare graduates to practice the art and science of medicine while providing high-quality, equitable, and inclusive patient-centered healthcare.
Vision Statement
The South University Master of Science in Physician Assistant (MSPA) degree program strives to provide an educational environment that empowers students to practice evidence-based, patient-centered medical care. With an emphasis on increasing access to care, reducing health disparities, and engaging in community outreach, we aim to provide inclusive educational experiences for students, faculty, and staff. As future clinical leaders, the program’s focus is to graduate physician assistants who will promote cultural humility and patient advocacy.
Technical Standards
In order to ensure that patients receive the best medical care possible, the faculty of the South University Physician Assistant program has identified certain skills and professional behaviors that are essential for successful progression of physician assistant students in the program. A student must possess skills and behaviors at a level of capability to perform a variety of duties required of a physician assistant as a health care professional.
Students with disabilities who can perform these skills and successfully execute professional behavior either unassisted, with dependable use of assistive devices, or by employing other reasonable accommodations are eligible to apply for enrollment in the program. Minimum performance standards include critical thinking, communication skills, observation skills, motor skills, and interpersonal abilities. Interested parties may contact the Physician Assistant program office for additional information about South University performance standards. These skills and behaviors include, but are not limited to;
Critical Thinking: A student must possess the intellectual, ethical, physical and emotional capabilities required to undertake the full curriculum and to achieve the levels of competence required by the faculty. The ability to solve problems, a skill that is critical to the practice of medicine, requires the intellectual abilities of measurement, calculation, reasoning, analysis and synthesis. Students must be able to perform demonstrations and experiments in the basic sciences.
Communication Skills: A student should also be able to speak, to hear, and to observe patients in order to elicit information, describe changes in mood, activity and posture, and to perceive nonverbal communications. The student must be able to communicate effectively and efficiently in oral and written forms.
Observation Skills: The student must be able to observe a patient accurately, both at a distance and in close proximity. This ability requires the functional use of vision and somatic sensation.
Motor Skills: A student should have sufficient motor function to elicit information from patients by palpation, auscultation, percussion and other diagnostic techniques. A student should be able to execute movements reasonably required to move from area to area, maneuver in small spaces, calibrate and use large and small equipment, position and move patients, and provide patients with general care and emergency treatment.
Interpersonal Abilities: A student for the Physician Assistant program must possess the emotional health required for full utilization of his or her intellectual abilities, the exercise of good judgment, the prompt completion of all responsibilities required for the diagnosis and care of patients and the development of professionalism through mature, sensitive, and effective relationships with patients, families, and colleagues.
Faculty
Physician Assistant Program at Austin
The South University, Austin Physician Assistant Program welcomes you!
The South University, Austin Master of Science in Physician Assistant Program Faculty:
Kristen Smethurst, DMSc, PA-C
Physician Assistant Department Chair, Interim Program Director, Assistant Professor
Dr. Kristen Smethurst joined South University in January 2020. She was born in Texas and raised outside of Washington, DC. She attended Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida where she received a Bachelor of Arts degree. Later, she earned a Masters of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Florida. Dr. Smethurst was awarded a Doctor of Medical Science degree from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in Provo, Utah. She has practiced clinically for over 20 years in the areas of Emergency Medicine, Internal Medicine, Women’s Health, and Urgent Care.
In 2014, Dr. Smethurst moved with her family to Australia for 3 years. While there, she was an avid volunteer and traveler. Since returning in 2017 she worked in urgent care and currently volunteers in the community doing HIV testing and counseling.
Dr. Smethurst has experience teaching: women’s health, behavioral health, clinical procedures, epidemiology and biostatistics, clinical laboratory medicine, amongst others. She actively serves on a number of departmental and institutional committees. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling with her family and watching her daughter play volleyball. She is proud to be part of the South University PA team!
Teri Bigler, DHEd, PA-C, DFAAPA
Assistant Program Director, Associate Professor
Dr. Teri Bigler joined the South University, Austin Master of Science in Physician Assistant (MSPA) Program in June 2023. She earned her BS in Physician Assistant at UTMB in 1997. Clinically, she has practiced in the fields of pulmonary/critical care (MICU), nephrology, internal medicine with a focus on geriatrics, and sleep medicine. With over 20 years of experience in PA education, she has served in various roles, including Clinical Coordinator and Program Director, in Texas and Louisiana. Her main goals are to help students feel invested in their learning journey and help them get the most out of their educational opportunities.
In addition to a Master’s degree in Health Promotion and Wellness Promotion, Dr. Bigler earned a Doctorate in Health Education from AT Still University in 2015. She was inducted into the Pi Alpha National Honor Society in 2010 and was named a Distinguished Fellow by the AAPA in 2015.
Dr. Bigler is pleased to be back in Texas, where she enjoys spending time with her family. She has a passion for travel and has participated in several medical mission trips.
Ashley Hadaway, MD
Medical Director
Dr. Hadaway is a board-certified Urologist. After receiving her medical doctorate, she completed her general surgery internship and urology residency training at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio where she also previously worked as an assistant professor. Dr. Hadaway has a strong passion for teaching and is looking forward to sharing her knowledge of medicine with the students of South University.
In her free time, Dr. Hadaway enjoys baking, crafting, and CrossFit.
Bridget Petrowsky, MPH, MSHS, PA-C
Director of Didactic Education, Principal Faculty, Assistant Professor
Bridget Petrowsky joined South University, Austin in 2021 as an Assistant Professor. She received her Master’s degree in Health Sciences in Physician Assistant Studies from The George Washington University in 2009. Since graduating from her program, Bridget has practiced in student health, occupational medicine, family medicine, and obesity medicine.
Prior to becoming a physician assistant, Bridget pursued her undergraduate degree from the University of Texas and a Masters degree in Public Health from University of Texas Houston Health Science Center. She is passionate about holistic health and nutrition and holds a certificate in nutrition coaching. She enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, traveling and exercising in her spare time.
Jessica Grenard, MS, PA-C
Director of Clinical Education, Principal Faculty, Assistant Professor
Jessica Grenard joined South University, Austin in 2023 as the Assistant Director of Clinical Education and Assistant Professor. She completed her undergraduate studies at Northwestern University in 2010 with a focus on the history of science and medicine. Jessica then pursued a career in clinical research until 2015 when she entered the Baylor College of Medicine PA Program. There, she was selected as a Physician Assistant Educational Association Future Educator Fellow and completed her Master’s Project entitled “Teaching to an Empty Classroom; Qualitative Analysis of Student Motivation.”
After graduating with highest honors, Jessica worked in urology and allergy/infectious disease medicine. Prior to starting at South University, she was employed as a Clinical Research PA at the National Institutes of Health focusing on primary immunodeficiencies, auto-antibodies and the human microbiome. She is passionate about public health, health literacy, and patient advocacy, and enjoys spending time with her family, playing and watching sports (go Austin FC!) and throwing a ball for her dog Demi.
Melinda Moore Gottschalk, DMSc, PA-C, DFAAPA
Chair of Admissions, Principal Faculty, Assistant Professor
Dr. Melinda Moore Gottschalk, DMSc PA-C DFAAPA, is the Chair of Admissions, Principal Faculty, and Assistant Professor at South University, Austin. Dr. Gottschalk graduated from the University of Texas Southwestern PA program, earning a Bachelor of Science and a PA Certificate. She later earned a Master of PA Studies from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and a Doctor of Medical Science at A.T. Still University. Her original doctoral research, "Ageism in the PA Profession: An Exploratory Study," earned Dr. Gottschalk AAPA's Research in Action and A.T. Still's Capstone of Excellence in 2021.
Since beginning her career as a PA, Dr. Gottschalk has worked in orthopedic sports medicine, orthopedic spine surgery, urgent care, interventional pain management, oncology, neurology, telemedicine, and as a medical science liaison representing neurology and oncology pharmaceutical products. Dr. Gottschalk is a Distinguished Fellow of the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA)and the chair of the AAPA Judicial Affairs Commission. She served two terms as an AAPA Director at Large and held various AAPA-appointed positions and a 5-year term at the FDA.
Dr. Gottschalk was elected President of the Texas Academy of PAs (TAPA) in 2008 and has held numerous elected and appointed positions within TAPA. Texas Governor Rick Perry appointed Dr. Gottschalk to a newly formed Texas Physician Health Program as the founding PA board member. Subsequently, Governor Greg Abbott appointed Dr. Gottschalk to the Texas PA Regulatory Board as the Board Secretary.
Dr. Gottschalk's professional goal is to contribute positively to the evolution of the PA profession through leadership, advocacy, education, and mentorship.
Claire Stigler, DC
Assisitant Director of Didactic Education, Assistant Professor
Dr. Claire Stigler has been teaching at South University, Austin since 2015. She originally taught courses in Anatomy and Physiology and Pathophysiology until she joined the South University, Austin PA Program in 2023. She is passionate about science and medicine and strives to share the complexity and resilience of anatomy and physiology with each of her students. In training future healthcare professionals, Dr. Stigler emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary communication, critical thinking, and a commitment to life-long learning.
Dr. Stigler earned her Master of Science in Human Biology from the University of Indianapolis, where she studied paleopathology and trauma patterns in historic skeletal populations. Later encouraged her interest in alternative medicine, she pursued her Doctorate in Chiropractic Medicine at National University of Health Sciences and earned her degree in 2013.
Additionally, Dr. Stigler maintains a private chiropractic practice in Austin, Texas that focuses on preventative health and functional medicine. She enjoys working with patients to enhance their overall health through nutrition and lifestyle modifications.
Victor H. Lopez Jr., PA-C
Assistant Director of Clinical Education, Assistant Professor
Victor Lopez joined the South University, Austin Master of Science in Physician Assistant (MSPA) in 2023 as an Assistant Professor. He started out in medicine as an Army Medic with the 25th Infantry out of Schofield Barracks, HI. After 4 years and 2 tours in Iraq, he left the service and obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Community Health from George Mason University before attending the George Washington University Physician Assistant Program in Washington DC.
For the last six years, Victor has worked as an Emergency Room Physician Assistant throughout central Texas including San Antonio, Killeen, and Austin. Today, he still lends a hand in the Clinical Decision Unit at Dell Seton Medical Center at The University of Texas.
When not in the hospital or in the classroom, Victor is watching the latest movie releases with his wife and 3 children or tending to his chickens and bees on their little piece of the Texas countryside.
Rhiannon Ringo, PA-C
Principal Faculty, Assistant Professor
Rhiannon Ringo joined the South University faculty in 2024. She is an alumna of South University, Savannah, graduating in 2004 with a Bachelor's of Science in Physician Assistant degree before earning her Master's in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Texas at Rio Grande. With over twenty years of clinical experience, Rhiannon has practiced in Pediatrics, Allergy and Immunology, Gastroenterology, Family Practice, and Otolaryngology. Throughout her career, she has mentored PA students in Pediatrics and previously worked as a Registered Respiratory Therapist in West Texas, where she developed a passion for pulmonary medicine and asthma and allergy education. Rhiannon is dedicated to lifelong learning and actively pursues new knowledge to enhance patient care.
Outside of work, Rhiannon cherishes time with her family, who are enthusiastic golfers. She also enjoys weightlifting, hiking, and reading.
Michele Matlock, MS, PA-C
Principal Faculty, Assistant Professor
Michele Matlock joined South University, Austin, in 2024 as an Assistant Professor. Born and raised in Texas, she graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a bachelor’s degree in biology, moving on to earn a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Baylor College of Medicine in 1995. Since then, she has worked in a wide array of practice settings, from inpatient medicine at the University of Texas Medical Branch /TDCJ hospital in Galveston, to outpatient primary care practices in underserved areas across the state of Texas. Most recently, her work in Geriatric medicine centered on the care of people living with dementia and their family caregivers. She is passionate about person-centered, holistic healthcare in all areas of clinical medicine.
A lifelong learner, Michele is currently pursuing a DMSc degree from A.T. Still University, following the educational track. With a goal of contributing to the formation of the next generation of PAs, she hopes to pay forward what she has received as a member of the PA profession.
Megan Maloney, MSPAS, PA-C
Principal Faculty, Assistant Professor
Megan Maloney joined South University, Austin, faculty in 2024. She received her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies in 2015 from SUNY-Upstate Medical University where she was the president of her graduating class. She also holds a Bachelors of Arts in English and a Minor in International Studies from Boston College where she graduated in 2010.
Born and raised in Austin, Megan returned home after completing her education and training. She has spent the last nine years in Emergency Medicine at a Level II Trauma Center. During that time, she has also held part-time positions in telemedicine, urology and urgent care medicine.
Outside of work, Megan likes going to concerts, exploring new restaurants and traveling. She has a passion for reading, watching movies and enjoys spending quality time with her husband, two children and dog Lucy.
Staff:
Kelsey McDonald, BA
Graduate Program Coordinator
Kelsey McDonald joined the staff at South University, Austin Master of Science Physician Assistant Program in March 2022.
After earning her Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech and Hearing Sciences from Washington State University, Kelsey moved to Austin. Over the past decade, she has provided one-on-one and group therapies as a Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant, as well as a Registered Behavior Technician. Most recently, Kelsey worked with students all over Texas in a virtual capacity as a Success Coach. She has a passion for assisting students achieve their goals. She loves to support and advocate for those successes!
Outside of the office, Kelsey is a theatre instructor with an Adaptive Theatre Program – specializing in Neurodivergent adults and children. She also enjoys photography, singing, and exploring new places while finding the best taco spots.
Amanda Mendez, MHA, LMT, MMP
Program Coordinator
Amanda joined South University, Austin as the Administrative Assistant for the Master of Science Physician Assistant Program June 2023. She earned her Clinically Certified Medical Assistant Certificate and Non-Certified Radiological Technician License in 2015 and worked at an Urgent Care company for 6 years. Shortly after, she gained her Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management (2018) and Master of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Healthcare Administration (2019) from South University, Austin.
Amanda comes from an extensive healthcare background with developed skills in rehabilitation, working as a Medical Massage Practitioner (MMP) since 2006, networking with a variety of providers; such as, Chiropractors, Physical Therapists, Medical Doctors, and Physician Associates. Through her role as an Area Operations Manager, she has developed skills within teamwork, customer service, management, and administration duties.
In her free time, she enjoys reading, journaling/planning, spending time with her daughter, and helping clients as a Medical Massage Practitioner.
Laurie Layne, OT
Clinical Coordinator
Laurie Layne joined South University, Austin in 2024 as clinical coordinator for the Physician Assistant program. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Community Health from Texas A&M University and a Master of Occupational Therapy (OT) from Texas Woman’s University-Houston.
As a healthcare professional, Laurie worked in a variety of settings, including overseas clinics, public schools, home health, outpatient clinics and hospital based clinics. For the past seventeen years, she worked as a pediatric occupational therapist at Dell Children’s, while concurrently supporting an affiliated outpatient pediatric gastroenterology clinic as a feeding therapist. She also served as clinical coordinator for OT and Physical Therapy student placements across multiple sites. She is an active member of American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) and Professional Women of Williamson County. Having held multiple board positions in local community and youth-focused organizations, she is a strong partner and supporter of community initiatives and partnerships.
Laurie enjoys spending her free time supporting Aggie athletics, playing pickleball, reading and traveling.
Claudine Ellis, MBA
Clinical Manager for College of Health Professions
Claudine Ellis joined South University, West Palm Beach Master of Science in Physician Assistant Program in June, 2021 as the Clinical Coordinator and has recently been promoted into the College of Health Professions Clinical Manager role as of May, 2024.
Originally from Jamaica, she has been living in West Palm Beach, FL for 12 years. Claudine graduated with an Associate of Science in Tourism Management from Western Hospitality Institution. With over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry, she excelled as an Administrative Assistant, providing crucial support to senior-level managers. She pursued her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Health Services Administration from Keiser University. During her tenure as a Health Center Coordinator, she demonstrated a commitment to delivering exceptional care, ensuring optimum client support, and enhancing patient satisfaction. She then graduated with a Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Administration from South University, West Palm Beach.
In her spare time, she enjoys exploring new destinations, listening to music, visiting the beach, volunteering within the community, and spending time with her friends and family.
Christopher Whisenant, MS
Data Coordinator for The College of Health Professions
Chris Whisenant joined the South University Master of Science in Physician Assistant team full time in August 2018 as the Clinical Coordinator. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics at the University of Lynchburg in 2009 and a Master of Science in Applied Mathematics from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2011. He taught math initially as an adjunct at South University, Richmond and later became a full-time instructor at the beginning of 2012. During the fall of 2017, he participated with the Physician Assistant Program as an instructor for Epidemiology and Biostatistics. Although passionate about teaching, he transitioned to the role of Clinical Coordinator during the summer of 2018 and then transitioned to the role of Data Coordinator for The College of Health Professions in 2023. Mr. Whisenant enjoys this opportunity to work with graduate level students in a capacity that allows for open dialogue and a shared commitment to determining and enhancing one’s academic and professional passions. In his spare time, he enjoys hiking, playing soccer and volleyball, exploring cities, cooking, and learning.
Clinical Rotations
12 months
Physician Assistant Clinical Rotations
The clinical phase is 12 months in length. Eight five-week supervised clinical practice experiences (SPCEs) are conducted at a variety of clinical rotation sites. Students will gain clinical exposure in the following disciplines: Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Women's Health, Behavioral Medicine, Emergency Medicine and the Clinical Elective.
Clinical sites are recruited by the program’s Clinical Education Team (CET). Sites offer students a wide variety of clinical experiences in the discipline-specific clinical rotation (course) and service delivery systems. Students are not required to supply their own clinical sites or preceptors for clinical rotations. Sites for rotations will be determined by the PA Program. Alternate rotation sites may be provided by the student to the Clinical Education Team. The CET will evaluate sites suggested by students for viability as a clinical rotation site. In order to be eligible for rotations outside of South University sites, or in student-suggested sites, a student must demonstrate successful academic, clinical, and professional progress in the program.
The South University Physician Assistant program immunization policy is aligned with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Healthcare Personnel Vaccination Recommendations for health professionals. After acceptance into the program, but before registration can be successfully completed, all students must complete the South University Health Requirements. Be aware that additional immunizations may be required by some clinical training sites and are the students’ responsibility. If students choose not to be vaccinated, they will not be allowed to rotate at clinical sites that require immunizations unless expressly permitted in writing to the program by the appropriate personnel at that site. If any of the core (required) rotations cannot be completed because the student voluntarily chose not to be vaccinated as required by the clinical rotation site, the student will not be eligible for graduation from the Physician Assistant program.
Physicians, physician assistants, and other health care providers serve as preceptors for clinical students in direct patient care, providing the opportunity for the student to perfect clinical and technical skills, and to become competent in communication, physical diagnosis, succinct and thorough documentation, problem assessment, and development of a logical approach to patient management.
Our students rotate in busy clinics, private physician offices, teaching hospitals, and large hospital systems. Rotations exist in rural, suburban, and urban areas. Our students are offered a wide variety of experiences and locations for their clinical rotations that are designed to round out the application of knowledge and skills to actual patient care.
Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
Physician Assistant Learning Outcomes
(Graduate Competencies)
The following are the program learning outcomes (Graduate Competencies) for the South University Physician Assistant program.
Prior to graduation from the program, students will:
• PLO-1. Integrate behavioral, social, and medical knowledge established from the evolving biomedical and clinical sciences in recognizing, evaluating, and managing patient disease states across the lifespan during acute, chronic, preventative, and emergent encounters.
• PLO-2. Demonstrate the interpersonal and communication skills required to sustain effective, multi-directional information exchange within a diverse population of patients, their caregivers, and members of the healthcare team.
• PLO-3. Demonstrate the ability to elicit an accurate patient history, perform an appropriate physical examination, and perform appropriate clinical procedures using essential clinical and technical skills to provide quality patient care.
• PLO-4. Collaborate effectively as part of an interdisciplinary healthcare team through clinical reasoning and problem-solving skills to formulate a logical differential diagnosis, select and interpret appropriate diagnostic studies, and synthesize a comprehensive, patient-centered management plan for the promotion of wellness and disease prevention.
• PLO-5. Demonstrate the ability to interpret and integrate an evidence-based approach to clinical and professional practice through clinical reasoning, problem-solving, and decision-making processes to improve patient care practices.
• PLO-6. Demonstrate professionalism through personal behaviors, sensitivity, and accountability essential to patients, society, and the profession.
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*Clinical, practicum, and externship requirements exist in certain programs and require field experiences. Learning formats may not be flexible.
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