News

Commission to Study Entry-Level Doctoral Degree 

At the 2023 business meeting, PAEA members approved a resolution directing the Board “to explore how doctoral degrees can contribute to PA education.” In a first step toward meeting this goal, the PAEA Doctoral Education Commission held its first meeting last month to begin laying out its work. 

Formed by the Board, the commission is charged with investigating the implications of moving toward an entry-level doctoral degree for PAs. This includes understanding 

  • how such a move would affect PAs already in practice and those nearing practice 
  • how it would affect efforts to attract a more diverse group of students and faculty 
  • how it would affect programs and their home institutions 

Once their work is completed, the commission will provide a detailed analysis to the PAEA Board and members. In addition, it will provide resources to help members and organizations better understand the issues at play. 

The commission is led by David P. Asprey, PhD, PA-C, professor, Department of PA Studies and Services. It also includes:

  • Co-chair Jennifer Snyder, PhD, PA-C, associate dean, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Butler University 
  • David Beck, EdD, MPAS, PA-C, vice dean, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh  
  • Lucy Kibe, MS, MHS, DrPH, PA-C, associate professor and program director at Charles R. Drew University, founder of EDGE-PA 
  • Curt Stilp, EdD, PA-C, associate dean, College of Medical Science at George Fox University 
  • Karen Hills, DHSc, MS, PA-C, PAEA senior advisor, doctoral education strategy, is providing staff support for the group

In addition, the commission is seeking to add two additional members in January. If you are interested, you can apply here