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EDU-Education

RIA: Investigating the Entry-Level Professional Doctoral Degree: Impact of Institutional Accreditation

Sunday, May 18, 2025
11:00 AM – 11:30 AM  
Location: Colorado Convention Center, Room 505
CE: .5 AAPA Category 1 CME
Capturing for On Demand

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