RIA: Investigating the Entry-Level Professional Doctoral Degree: Impact of Institutional Accreditation
Sunday, May 18, 2025
11:00 AM – 11:30 AM
CE: .5 AAPA Category 1 CME
Research in Action (RIA): 25-minute research presentation, eligible for CME
This presentation explores the feasibility of transitioning PA education programs from master’s to entry-level doctoral degrees, focusing on institutional accreditation requirements. Key topics include credit hour justification, accreditation processes, faculty qualifications, curricular changes, and timelines. Data from thematic analysis of interviews with institutional accrediting bodies will provide insights for educators, administrators, and stakeholders in PA education.
Authors: Jennifer A. Snyder, PhD, PA-C David P. Asprey, MA, PhD David C. Beck, n/a Lucy W. Kibe, DrPH, PA-C Stephen D. Lewia, DMSc, PA-C Elana Min Curt Stilp, EdD, PA-C Karen Hills, DHSc MS PA-C
Learning Objectives:
At the conclusion of this session, participants should be able to:
Describe the purpose of institutional accreditation as compared to specialized accreditation and the steps involved in submitting a substantive change
Identify the roles of PA programs, sponsoring institutions, the profession, and specialized accreditation to transition to an entry-level professional doctorate
Define the role of institutional accreditors in a possible degree transition
