Clinical preceptors are practicing physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and other licensed providers who guide PA students through their clinical rotations, helping them apply classroom knowledge to real patient care. The clinical year takes students from a theoretical classroom setting into an active, hands-on learning environment. Preceptors truly are at the center of that transformation. As an integral part of the clinical phase of PA school, preceptors serve as role models, helping students sharpen their skills in history-taking, physical examination, effective communication, and clinical documentation. Through their mentorship and example, students progressively develop the clinical judgment and skills necessary to become practicing PAs.
At the Emory PA Program, we consider our preceptors true partners in education, not just hosts for a rotation. We work closely with our preceptors throughout each placement, providing clear learning objectives, staying in communication, and welcoming their feedback because we know that the quality of their guidance directly shapes the quality of our graduates.
Preceptor Interest
Precepting is also a meaningful way to give back to the profession and shape its future: national PA organizations have emphasized the critical role preceptors play in preparing the next generation of PAs, and how their input helps strengthen our curriculum and program as a whole.
Whether you're interested in mentoring future colleagues, staying sharp through teaching, or simply paying forward the guidance you once received, we'd love to have you join our team. Reach out to our clinical education team to learn more about getting started.
