Master of Orthopaedic Physician Assistant (MOPA)
FAQs
What will my schedule look like?
During the first year, students will take courses that will be delivered partially online and partially in a laboratory classroom setting. During the week students will complete online lectures and course materials, while interacting with online instructors and classmates.
Application of the online coursework will be practiced in a weekend lab setting on the St. Augustine campus.
Can I continue to work while taking classes?
It is possible to maintain a job during the first year of studies, though it can be challenging. Each trimester will be a rigorous, full-time course load.
Can I practice as a physician assistant in other areas of medicine?
This degree will prepare you to practice with and under supervision of an
orthopaedic surgeon. It will not qualify you to practice as a physician assistant in other areas of medicine.
What type of certification or licensure is available for OPAs?
Upon graduation, students will be prepared to take the National Board for Certification of Orthopaedic Physician’s Assistants (NBCOPA) Certification Exam. Currently, there are no other OPA programs in the country and this national certification is available only to those who have completed an apprenticeship. The current pass rate for the exam is quite low. With this new degree program we expect those who take the exam to be very well prepared to pass this examination and become certified.
Is the program accredited?
The University of St. Augustine has been accredited as an institution to offer this program. Additionally, the state of Florida has issued a license to the school to offer this program. Currently there is no programmatic accreditation available for the MOPA degree. This is because we will be the first school offering such a degree, thus giving the profession a foundation in an institution of higher education. We fully anticipate other schools will add this program as well, and at that time, it is likely a programmatic association will be formed.
Who will be teaching my classes?
Both online and lab coursework will be taught by faculty members with a doctoral degree and with professional affiliations in orthopaedic surgery, nursing, medicine, physical therapy and occupational therapy.
Where will my clinical rotations take place?
Every effort will be made to find sites in areas or communities convenient for the student but in some cases travel may be involved. OPA’s are located all over the United States and to date the interest in hosting our students at their sites has been incredible.