Physician Associate, M.M.S Program Policies and Procedures

A3.01 – Program policies apply to all students, principal faculty, and the program director, regardless of location.

All policies of the UNH physician associate program apply to all students, faculty, and the program director. During the clinical phase, site policies may supersede program policies; if such occurs, students will be notified of this circumstance prior to beginning the Supervised Clinical Practice Experience (SCPE) at such site.

A3.03 - Provision and Solicitation of Clinical Sites by Students Policy

The UNH physician associate program provides all required, and an elective SCPE to all students. Students are not required nor are they allowed to solicit their own sites. If a student has a previous relationship with a potential site, a request for the program to evaluate the site and preceptor may be submitted to the Director of Clinical Education. Such requests are handled on a case-by-case basis and the program does not guarantee that the site will be evaluated for student placement in a SCPE.

A3.04 - Students Working for the Program Policy

Students are not required nor are they allowed to work for the program in any capacity.

A3.05 - Student substitution for instructional faculty and clinic or administrative staff policy

Students may not, under any circumstance, substitute for instructional faculty nor provide administrative support to the program. This policy extends through the entire program; students may not serve as administrative or clinical staff during their SCPEs.

A3.06 - Identification as UNH PA students in a Clinical Setting Policy

Students must wear a name tag attached to their clothing that is clearly visible and that identifies them as a “University of New Haven Physician Associate Student” in every clinical setting.

A3.07 - Immunization and Health Screening Policy

Students are required to have met the University of New Haven requirements for immunization prior to entering the program. Immunizations required by the University are:

  • MMR vaccine (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella). Vaccines after December 1956 or given before the first birthday are not valid. MMRV is also acceptable.
  • Varicella (Chicken Pox) vaccine. Two doses required or proof of history of disease, or blood test to prove immunity required. MMRV is also acceptable.
  • The State of Connecticut requires that all students living in university housing receive 1 injection of the Meningitis (MCV 4 Sero Groups, A, C, Y and W135) vaccine within five (5) years of enrollment.

Additionally, the program requires the following immunizations based upon current CDC recommendations for immunization of healthcare workers.

  • Hepatitis B Series of three injections. If a student has received the series, but does not have documentation of such, documentation of a Hepatitis B titer must be submitted.
  • Tetanus – students must submit documentation of Td or Tdap within the last eight years. (CDC recommends every 10 years. The program’s 8-year requirement assures this recommendation is met for the duration of the program.) If a student is delayed in graduation, increasing this time frame, the immunization status will be evaluated at time of return to program.
  • TB screening – students must submit documentation of screening (TB blood test or skin test) completed within the two months prior to beginning the program. Yearly screening is required while in the program.
  • Influenza – the program strongly encourages annual influenza vaccination. Influenza vaccination may be required for students to complete SCPEs in certain sites and/or specialties. If a student chooses to not receive annual influenza vaccination, graduation may be delayed due to no clinical site availability that does not require this vaccination. In this circumstance, students will incur the added debt associated with extending the duration of their time in the program beyond 24 months. (Tuition, fees, and living expenses, etc.).
  • Covid-19 – the program does not require immunization against Covid-19. However, clinical sites where SCPEs are completed may require immunization. If a student chooses to not receive a Covid-19 vaccination, graduation may be delayed due to no clinical site availability that does not require this vaccination. In this circumstance, students will incur the added debt associated with extending the duration of their time in the program beyond 24 months. (Tuition, fees, and living expenses, etc.).
Health Examination Report

All students entering the University of New Haven must have a completed Health Examination Report on file, thus enabling the Health Services staff to render optimum health care when needed. All students must complete the health examination report before classes begin in the initial enrollment term.

Medical Exemptions

If the required immunizations cannot be received due to medical conditions, a Medical Exemption Certificate should be filled out by a healthcare provider and submitted to the upload email for review. Health services will submit the required documents to the DPH portal as state law requires. Only medical exemptions will be accepted, as religious exemptions are not permitted per state law.

HIPAA-Compliant Document Submission

The University of New Haven uses MyChart document submission to our Office of Health Services. This includes the required physical examination form and required vaccination records. Physician Associate program faculty, program director, and medical director do not have access to a student’s health information. The University Office of Health Services notifies the program of each student’s compliance with submission of health form and immunization status.

Student Health Insurance

All full-time undergraduate students, graduate physician associate students, and all full-time international students are required to have health insurance. The University of New Haven offers student health insurance for those who do not have private insurance. Information about the University student health insurance program and the online waiver system for those with private insurance can be found on the Bursar’s Office webpage. For specific questions regarding health insurance, please contact Health Services at (203) 932-7079.

Mandatory Student Accident Insurance

Students must purchase and maintain a supplemental accidental insurance policy while enrolled in the program. The cost is approximately $50.00 annually per student. Plan participation information will be provided to students prior to the program start date.

A3.07b - Travel Health Policy

The University of New Haven does not offer international SCPEs or any other out of country experiences. Thus, there is not a travel health policy.

A3.08a - Prevention of Student Exposure to Infectious and Environmental Hazards Policy

Students receive instruction and training in the prevention of exposure to infectious and environmental hazards during their didactic year. This is reviewed during the orientation to the clinical year.

A3.08b - Procedures for Care and Treatment after Exposure Policy

If a student experiences an exposure to an infectious or environmental hazard during the didactic year the student must immediately notify the Director of Academic Education and the instructor of the course in which the event occurs. If a student experiences an exposure to and infectious or environmental hazard during a SCPE, the student must immediately notify the Director of Clinical Education and the faculty/preceptor with whom they are working under the supervision of during the SCPE. Policy and procedures for treatment after exposure as determined by the institution in which the SCPE is taking place will be followed in the event of an exposure occurring during a SCPE. In the event of an exposure during a didactic course, the student will receive care through the University Student Health Services.

A3.08c - Financial Responsibility Post-Exposure to Infectious or Environmental Hazard Treatment and Care Policy

Financial responsibility for care and treatment post-exposure to an infection or environmental hazard is the student’s responsibility.

A3.09 - Provision of Health Care to Students Policy

Except for provision of care during an emergency, the Medical Director, Program Director, Principal, and Instructional faculty are prohibited from participation as medical providers for students in the program.

A3.10 - Timely Access and Referral of Students Addressing Personal Issues Policy

Students who are experiencing personal issues that may impact their progress in the PA program will be referred to University of New Haven Counseling and Psychologic Services. Crisis support is available through these services 24/7. Faculty are trained in how to recognize such issues in students and in how to ensure that students are provided timely access and referral to student support services.

A3.11 – Sponsoring Institution and Program Announcements and Advertising Policy

All announcements and advertising accurately reflect the program offered. Correspondence used to communicate with those inquiring about the program is standardized.

A3.12a - Program Accreditation Status

The program’s ARC-PA accreditation status as provided by ARC-PA is defined, published and readily available on the program’s website.

A3.12b - Evidence of Program’s Effectiveness in Meeting Program Goals

As the program matures, composite data will be published and readily available on the program’s website that will provide evidence of program effectiveness in meeting program goals.

A3.12c - Annual NCCPA PANCE Performance Summary Report

The annual NCCPA PANCE performance for the last 5 years will be published and readily available on the program website.

A3.12d - Program Curriculum

Required Components

Didactic Semester I
  • PHAS 6040 Clinical Medicine I (5 Credits)
  • PHAS 6050 Pharmacology I (3 Credits)
  • PHAS 6000 Applied Medical Science (2 Credits)
  • PHAS 6001 Clinical Anatomy & Physiology (3 Credits)
  • PHAS 6030 Clinical Assessment I (3 Credits)
  • PHAS 6010 Diagnostic Methods I (1 Credits)
  • PHAS 6020 Professional Issues (2 Credits)

Total Semester I Credits: 19

Didactic Semester II
  • PHAS 6041 Clinical Medicine II (6 Credits)
  • PHAS 6051 Pharmacology II (3 Credits)
  • PHAS 6031 Clinical Assessment II (3 Credits)
  • PHAS 6011 Diagnostic Methods II  (2 Credits)
  • PHAS 6021 Systems-Based Practice (2 Credits)
  • PHAS 6022 Person-Centered Care (2 Credits)

Total Semester II Credits: 18

Didactic Semester III
  • PHAS 6042 Clinical Medicine III (6 Credits)
  • PHAS 6052 Pharmacology III (3 Credits) 
  • PHAS 6032 Clinical Assessment III (3 Credits)
  • PHAS 6012 Diagnostic Methods III (2 Credits)
  • PHAS 6060 Specialty Medicine (4 Credits) 
  • PHAS 6065 Evidence-Based Medicine (1 Credit) 

Total Semester III Credits: 19

Total Didactic Phase Credit Hours: 56
Clinical Phase

Clinical Phase 3 semesters Supervised Clinical Experience & Back to Campus Courses

  • PHAS 6071 Family Medicine (4 Credits)
  • PHAS 6072 Pediatric Medicine (4 Credits)
  • PHAS 6073 Women’s Health (4 Credits)
  • PHAS 6074 Internal Medicine (4 Credits)
  • PHAS 6075 Behavioral Medicine (4 Credits)
  • PHAS 6076 Surgical Medicine (4 Credits)
  • PHAS 6077 Emergency Medicine (4 Credits)
  • PHAS 6078 Elective Practicum (1) (4 Credits)
Clinical Semester I
  • PHAS 6800 Physician Associate Competencies I (2 Credits)
  • PHAS 6810 Integrating Seminar I (1 Credit)
Clinical Semester II
  • PHAS 6801 Physician Associate Competencies II (2 Credits)
  • PHAS 6811 Integrating Seminar II (1 Credit) 
Clinical Semester III
  • PHAS 6802 Physician Associate Competencies III (2 Credits)
  • PHAS 6888 Capstone Seminar (2 Credits)
Total Credit Hours of Clinical Phase: 42
Total Credit Hours in Program: 98

A3.12e - Academic Credit Offered by the Program

The University of New Haven Physician Associate Program offers 98 credit hours.

A3.12f - Estimated Program Cost
Program Tuition and Fees

Please see the Tuition & Fees section for more information.

A3.13c - Practices for Awarding or Granting Advanced Placement

The UNH PA program does not award or grant advanced placement.

A3.14 - Admissions Policy

Please our Admissions Criteria page for more information.


A3.14j - Policy for student travel to required rotation sites

Clinical rotation sites for the University of New Haven Physician Associate Program are located across the United States. Students may be placed at sites both in and outside the New England region. As such, all students should anticipate and plan for significant additional expenses during the clinical year, including costs related to travel, temporary housing, meals, and other living expenses. While the program makes every effort to secure high-quality clinical placements and provide advance notice of assignments, students are responsible for all costs associated with completing required rotations. Flexibility and financial planning are essential components of preparing for the clinical phase of training.


A3.15a - Academic Standards
Academic Standing

This policy defines the criteria for academic standing in the University of New Haven Physician Associate Program, including Good Academic Standing, Academic Surveillance, Academic Warning, and Academic Probation. It also outlines the oversight role of the Progression and Promotion Committee in supporting student progression and ensuring program standards are met.

Good Academic Standing

A student is in Good Academic Standing when they meet all the following conditions:

  • Passing all courses in the current semester.
  • Have not required remediation of any multiple-choice exams or summative assessments during the semester.
  • Demonstrate consistent professional behavior as defined by the program’s professionalism standards.

Students who fail to meet one or more of these criteria at any point during the program will no longer be considered in Good Academic Standing and may be subject to additional academic review or intervention.

III. Academic Surveillance

Academic Surveillance is a non-punitive, early intervention mechanism. It may be initiated at any time by a faculty member or course director when a student exhibits signs of academic difficulty or declining performance.

  • Placement on Academic Surveillance does not appear on the student’s official academic record.
  • The purpose is to provide structured support and guidance through advising, tutoring, or academic success resources.
  • Surveillance may include regular progress check-ins and academic development planning.
  • Students may be removed from Academic Surveillance when sufficient academic progress and consistency are demonstrated.

Oversight and documentation of Academic Surveillance are managed by the Progression and Promotion Committee.

IV. Academic Warning

A student will be placed on Academic Warning if any of the following conditions are met:

  • Fails two multiple-choice (MCQ) examinations in any course; or
  • Exhibits unprofessional behavior as determined by faculty, but not rising to the level of probation.
  • Demonstrates a pattern of marginal performance across multiple assessments.
Key Notes
  • Academic Warning is an official notification to the student of concerns regarding academic or professional performance.
  • Academic Warning status is reviewed by the Progression and Promotion Committee and monitored closely.
  • Continued or unresolved issues may result in escalation to Academic Probation.
V. Academic Probation

A student will be placed on Academic Probation if any of the following occur:

Didactic Phase:

  • The student requires remediation of more than two multiple-choice (MCQ) examinations across two separate courses within a single academic semester: or
  • The student fails a summative assessment in any course.

Clinical Phase:

  • The student fails one Supervised Clinical Practice Experience (SCPE); or
  • The student must retake more than two End of Rotation Exams (EORs) to achieve passing scores

Implications of Probation

  • Students on Academic Probation may be prohibited from holding leadership roles, representing the program in external activities, or engaging in elective opportunities.
  • Academic Probation is noted in the student’s internal program record but not on their university transcript.

Oversight:

  • All decisions regarding placement on, continuation of, or removal from probation are determined by the Progression and Promotion Committee.
  • The Committee will document the conditions for continuation in the program and any required remediation or performance benchmarks.

Removal from Probation
Probationary status will be lifted when the student:

  • Successfully completes the following semester without exceeding remediation thresholds.
  • Demonstrates satisfactory academic and professional performance.
  • Meets all conditions outlined by the Progression and Promotion Committee, including any academic success or professionalism plan.
A3.15b - Program Progression and Completion Policies

Progression through the University of New Haven Physician Associate Program requires successful completion of all academic and professional components within each phase of the curriculum. The Progression and Promotion Committee formally reviews every student’s academic performance, clinical evaluations, and professional conduct at the end of each semester to determine eligibility for advancement.

Didactic Phase

Students must successfully complete and pass all didactic courses and program requirements each semester to progress to the subsequent semester.

Advancement to Clinical Phase

To be promoted from the didactic to the clinical phase of the program, students must:

  • Successfully complete all didactic courses and associated assessments.
  • Pass the Didactic Summative Examination.
  • Demonstrate proficiency through the Didactic Skills Check-Off.

Clinical Phase

During the clinical year, students must:

  • Pass all Supervised Clinical Practice Experiences (SCPEs).
  • Successfully complete and pass all didactic components embedded in each clinical semester.
Eligibility for Graduation

To be eligible for promotion to graduate status and receive the Master of Medical Science degree, students must:

  • Successfully complete all SCPEs and didactic coursework in the clinical year.
  • Pass all components of the Summative Evaluation Experience, including the End of Curriculum (EOC) Examination.
  • Demonstrate sustained professionalism and competency across all domains of the program.
Requirements for Graduation

To be eligible for graduation from the University of New Haven Physician Associate (UNH PA) Program, students must complete a structured six-semester curriculum totaling 98 credit hours, as outlined in the School of Health Sciences catalog and on the program website.

Graduation is contingent upon meeting the following requirements:

  1. Successful Completion of All Coursework
    All didactic courses and Supervised Clinical Practice Experiences (SCPEs) must be completed with a final grade of “Pass.”
  2. Professional and Behavioral Competence
    Students must achieve at least the “Skill Demonstrated” level in all categories of the Professional and Behavioral Assessment Rubric, as reviewed and approved by the Progression and Promotion Committee (PPC).
  3. Summative Evaluations
    Students must pass all components of all required summative evaluations, including but not limited to the Didactic Summative Evaluation and the Program Summative Evaluation Experience.

Meeting these standards affirms that the student has demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and professional attributes required for entry into clinical practice and conferral of the Master of Medical Science degree in Physician Associate Studies.

Program Completion Requirement

All students must complete the entire PA Program within 48 months (4 years) from the date of original matriculation, regardless of deceleration or leave of absence.

A3.15c - Remediation and Deceleration Policies
Remediation Process - Didactic Courses
  • All formative assessments must be remediated until a score of 70% is achieved; 80% for 2nd year courses.
  • Summative assessments may be remediated once. If the second attempt to achieve a score of 70% in Year One, or 80% in Year Two, is unsuccessful, the student will be referred to the Progression and Promotion Committee (PPC) for a holistic review of performance across the curriculum.
  • Following review, the PPC will recommend one of the following actions to the Program Director: continued remediation, deceleration with entry into the next cohort, or dismissal from the program.
  • The Program Director will make the final decision and meet with the student to discuss the outcome.
  • The student may appeal the decision to the Program Director within five business days. The Program Director will respond within three business days. If the student is dissatisfied with the outcome, they may escalate the appeal to the Dean of the School of Health Sciences within five business days. The Dean will respond within five business days.
Remediation Process - SCPE Courses

End-of-Rotation (EOR) Exams

  • May be remediated and repeated once per required SCPE.
  • A passing score is defined as at least 1.5 standard deviations below the national mean for the first four SCPEs and at least 1.0 standard deviation below the national mean for the final three required SCPEs of the clinical year.
  • Failure to meet these benchmarks results in failure of the SCPE and referral to the PPC for a holistic review of performance.
  • The PPC will recommend one of the following: SCPE course is failed, and student must repeat the SCPE, deceleration with return into the next cohort, or dismissal from the program.
  • The appeal process is the same as outlined for Didactic Courses.

Preceptor EOR Evaluation of Student

  • To pass, students must earn a score of “3” or higher on each observed component.
  • If a component is not observed, the Clinical Team will notify the student and provide a written plan to demonstrate competency, which may include participation in a gap lab or completion of the outcome in a related SCPE within the same semester.
  • Successful completion of the unobserved learning outcome results in a passing evaluation.
  • Failure of a Preceptor EOR Evaluation may be appealed to the Director of Clinical Education (DCE) within five business days of notification.
  • The DCE will contact the preceptor to investigate concerns. If the failure stands, the student will be referred to the PPC for review and recommendations.
  • The appeal process is the same as outlined for Didactic Courses.

Clinical Module Quizzes

  • Must be remediated and retaken until a score of 80% is achieved.

Retrospective Case Analyses

  • Required in the elective rotation and must be remediated until a score of 80% is achieved.

Remediation of Professionalism

  • Professionalism is assessed in every didactic and SCPE course.
  • Incidents of professionalism lapses are reviewed jointly by the Director of Academic Education and the Director of Clinical Education, who will recommend either a remediation plan or referral to the PPC.
  • If referred, the PPC will review all professionalism scores to date and recommend one of the following to the Program Director: remediation, deceleration with entry into the next cohort, or dismissal.
  • The Program Director will make the final decision and meet with the student to discuss the outcome.
  • The appeal process is the same as outlined for Didactic Courses.
  • Egregious lapses in professionalism that significantly impact the learning environment, disrupt peer learning, or pose a safety concern in either the campus or clinical setting will result in immediate suspension from program activities pending completion of the above review process.
Deceleration Policy

Definition
The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) defines deceleration as “the loss of a student from the cohort, who remains matriculated in the physician associate program.” In the University of New Haven PA Program, deceleration allows a student to temporarily step away from their current cohort while remaining an active student, under defined circumstances. Deceleration will not extend the maximum time to program completion.

Deceleration is not permitted as an alternative to disciplinary action and is not offered to students who are not in good academic standing or who have unresolved academic, professional, or conduct concerns.

Voluntary Deceleration

Eligibility:

  • The student must be in Good Academic Standing as defined in this handbook.
  • The student must be free of any current academic, professional, or behavioral conduct issues.
  • The student must submit a written request, explaining the reason for deceleration.

Process & Return:

  • Students approved for voluntary deceleration follow the university’s Leave of Absence policy.
  • Students may decelerate for no longer than one calendar year.
  • Students must re-enter with the next incoming cohort and restart at the beginning of the semester in which they decelerated.
  • A self-directed academic review is required before returning to ensure knowledge retention and readiness.
Granted Deceleration

In some cases, the program may offer deceleration to a student facing significant life circumstances that are negatively affecting academic performance.

Consideration Criteria

  • Prior history of strong academic performance.
  • A current, documented personal hardship (e.g., medical, family, mental health) that interferes with academic success.
  • A reasonable likelihood that the issue will improve with time away from the program.

Process

  • The Progression and Promotion Committee (PPC) reviews academic records, conduct history, and documentation of circumstances.
  • The PPC submits a recommendation to the Program Director, who makes the final decision.
  • Deceleration will not be offered during a dismissal process or while a student is actively appealing a program sanction.
Didactic Phase Deceleration

Due to the structure of the curriculum, didactic courses are only offered once per academic year.

  • Students who decelerate during the didactic phase must repeat the full semester during which they left.
  • Re-entry requires a self-guided content review to help ensure academic readiness.
Clinical Phase Deceleration

The duration of clinical phase deceleration is determined case-by-case based on the reason for deceleration. However:

  • It may not exceed 12 months.
  • Before returning, students must complete a self-study review designed and approved by the Director of Clinical Education to reestablish clinical readiness.
  • Students re-entering the clinical year may be rescheduled for SCPEs based on preceptor and site availability, which may affect graduation timelines.

Important Notes

  • A student may only be decelerated once during the program, except under extraordinary circumstances.
  • Students who are decelerated will be placed on academic probation and required to follow a remediation plan developed by program faculty.
  • Deceleration may result in delayed graduation, additional tuition or fees, and changes to financial aid or certification timelines.
A3.15d - Withdrawal and Dismissal Policies

Students may withdraw from the program at any time.

Withdrawing from the UNH PA Program

Students who are considering withdrawal from the UNH PA program are strongly encouraged to meet with the Program Director to discuss their circumstances and possible implications of withdrawal.

To officially withdraw from the program, students must:

  • Complete the University Withdrawal Form
  • Submit the form to the Office of the University Registrar
Important Considerations for Withdrawal
  • Tuition and fees will be prorated based on the student’s last date of attendance and in accordance with the Bursar’s Office refund policy.
  • Withdrawal deadlines are published each term in the University Graduate Academic Calendar.
  • It is the student’s responsibility to review and understand the refund schedule, required documentation, and deadlines posted on the MyCharger portal.

Students are advised to consult with the Financial Aid Office prior to withdrawal, as withdrawing from the program may impact loan repayment timelines, aid eligibility, and deferment status.

Withdrawals

Students who are identified as demonstrating a deficiency in ability to successfully meet the academic or professional behavior standards of the program will be referred to the Progressive and Promotion Committee. Possible results of the meeting with the PPC include recommendation for a written warning, academic probation, professional probation, recommendation for an Individualized Remediation Plan, recommendation for deceleration, and recommendation for student dismissal from the program. The program director will make the final decision regarding the PPC’s recommendation.

The student may appeal a decision of dismissal by submitting a written appeal including all factors the student believes will support reversal of the dismissal. The program director will respond to appeals within forty-eight hours. Student appeals for reversal of dismissal must be submitted within three business days to receive consideration.

If the student appeal is unsuccessful, the student may escalate the appeal to the Dean of the School of Health Sciences. Such an escalation must be completed within three business days of the student being notified of the program director’s decision.

To avoid dismissal from the program for academic difficulties due to outside extenuating circumstances, students are encouraged to utilize the LOA and deceleration policies.

A3.15e - Student Employment Policy

Students may work outside of the program if the work hours fall outside of the hours of program operation from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. If the student’s performance within the program at any time results in being placed on Academic Probation, the student will not be allowed to be employed. Students are not permitted to work outside of the program during the clinical year.

A3.15f - Student Mistreatment Policy

The University of New Haven Physician Associate Program provides a supportive, student focused learning environment. We strive to provide every student an inclusive, humane, and respectful learning experience. The program defines mistreatment as a student being treated unfairly or used in a capacity that is not considered reasonable for the student.

The program defines mistreatment as a student being treated unfairly or used in a capacity that is not considered reasonable for the student. Examples of mistreatment may include, but are not limited to:

  • Verbal Abuse – Use of profanity, belittling, or derogatory language toward a student.
  • Public Humiliation – Intentionally embarrassing or criticizing a student in front of patients, peers, or staff.
  • Excessive or Unreasonable Workload – Assigning tasks or responsibilities beyond the student's scope of training or outside educational objectives (e.g., repeatedly acting as a scribe or transport assistant without educational value).
  • Discrimination or Harassment – Differential treatment based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, or other protected characteristics.
  • Inappropriate Use of Power or Authority – Threatening academic consequences or professional retaliation if the student fails to comply with non-academic demands.
  • Sexual Harassment – Unwelcome sexual advances, comments, or physical contact.
  • Neglect of Supervision – Being left to care for patients without appropriate supervision or being asked to perform procedures beyond the student’s training or competency.
  • Coercion or Intimidation – Pressuring students to perform tasks they are uncomfortable with or to provide false documentation.
  • Exclusion from Educational Opportunities – Deliberately preventing students from participating in clinical or educational activities relevant to their learning objectives.

When mistreatment is believed to have occurred, we ask that it be reported to the program director as soon as possible. Reports or concerns of mistreatment may be made via phone, email or in person. If an acceptable resolution cannot be provided on the program level and a student wishes to file a formal complaint, contact the Online Ombuds Staff via email at onlinestudentombuds@newhaven.edu or call (203) 932-7130.

A3.15g - Student Grievance and Appeals Policy

The UNH PA Program is committed to maintaining a fair, respectful, and supportive learning environment. Students have the right to file a grievance when they believe they have been treated unfairly, subjected to mistreatment, or faced decisions that negatively impact their academic or clinical progress in a manner inconsistent with program or institutional policies.

This policy outlines the procedure for addressing non-academic grievances that are not related to grade appeals or Title IX matters, which follow separate university protocols.

Definition of a Grievance

A student grievance is a formal complaint brought by a student concerning:

  • Unfair treatment by faculty, staff, preceptors, or clinical personnel
  • Violation of program policies or procedures
  • Unprofessional behavior by program personnel or clinical affiliates
  • Program administrative decisions believed to be arbitrary or discriminatory

Grievances related to grades, sexual misconduct, or discrimination based on protected class status are handled separately through the respective Grade Appeal Policy, Title IX Office, or Office of Civil Rights & Equity.

Informal Resolution (Step 1 – Recommended)

Students are encouraged to resolve concerns at the lowest appropriate level through informal communication. Whenever possible:

  • Speak directly with the person involved to clarify and resolve the issue
  • Seek guidance from a faculty advisor, Director of Academic Education, Director of Clinical Education, or Program Director
  • Utilize conflict resolution strategies with support from a faculty member

If informal efforts are unsuccessful or the issue is of a more serious nature, students may pursue a formal grievance.

Formal Grievance Process (Step 2)

To initiate a formal grievance, the student must:

  1. Submit a written complaint to the Program Director within 10 business days of the incident or failed informal resolution
  2. The written grievance must include:
    • A clear description of the issue
    • The specific policy or conduct in question
    • Any steps already taken to resolve the concern
    • The resolution the student is seeking
  3. The Program Director will:
    • Acknowledge receipt of the grievance within 5 business days
    • Investigate the concern, which may include interviews with involved parties
    • Decide and provide a written response to the student within 15 business days of receiving the grievance

If the Program Director is the subject of grievance, the complaint should be submitted to the Dean of the School of Health Sciences.

Appeal Process (Step 3)

If the student is not satisfied with the outcome, they may submit an appeal to the Dean of the College of Health and Human Services within 5 business days of receiving the decision. The Dean’s decision is final.

Confidentiality and Retaliation
  • All grievance proceedings will be handled with confidentiality to the extent possible
  • Retaliation against a student for filing a grievance is strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary action
Recordkeeping

A record of all formal grievances and resolutions will be maintained by the PA Program in accordance with FERPA and university policy.

Title IX and 504/ADA Grievance Policies and Procedures

Please, refer to the University Policies linked below:

Grade Appeals

Students placed on Academic Warning or Academic Probation may submit a written appeal to the Program Director within five (5) business days of notification. Appeals will be reviewed by the Progression and Promotion Committee, and a final decision will be rendered in writing.


A3.18 - Access to Academic Records and Confidential Information Policy
Confidentiality of Student Records

Student academic records and confidential information are password protected within MyCharger, within the password protected clinical education software CORE, and the PA program electronic student files. Student records are not accessible to PA students and unauthorized personnel. Furthermore, student records are protected by the FERPA Policy governed by the University of New Haven’s webpage.

Confidentiality of Faculty Records

Faculty records are stored in a confidential file within the Office of Human Resources, the Office of the Provost, the Dean’s office, and the PA Program PD. Faculty files in the PA Program PD’s office are kept electronically and accessible only to the PD. Unauthorized personnel do not have access to faculty records.