Student Travel and Housing

Clinical experiences are scheduled in various geographic locations and are coordinated to provide quality learning experiences, achieve competencies, satisfy accreditation standards, and align with the RVU PA Program mission. Some rotations require travel outside the Denver metropolitan area to participate in clinical experiences or didactic educational opportunities. Travel is at the student’s expense and unless otherwise notified, is not paid for by the PA Program, RVU, or the clinical agencies. Reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license are necessary to complete the program of study. In the event of inclement weather, students are advised to use their best judgment when considering travel to educational experiences. Unless otherwise specified, all costs associated with student attendance and travel to and from educational or professional conferences are the responsibility of the student. 

Rotation Commute Policy

If a student is required to do a clinical rotation that entails a commute greater than 50 miles or 50 minutes from the RVU campus, the Program will identify housing for the student through the Colorado Area Health Education Center (AHEC). All AHEC rules and guidelines must be acknowledged by the student prior to applying for AHEC housing. Costs associated with housing will be paid by the Program directly to AHEC. 

If a student is scheduled for clinical rotations that require a commute greater than 50 miles or 50 minutes from the RVU campus for a period greater than five (5) consecutive months, the student will not be eligible for AHEC housing and will need to secure and pay for their own housing.  

In the event the student is required to attend a clinical experience with a commute greater than 50 miles or 50 minutes from the RVU campus in an area where family offers housing, we request that the student make all reasonable accommodations to stay with family at no cost to the Program.  

In the event that the student is required to do a clinical rotation with a commute greater than 50 miles or 50 minutes from the RVU campus and AHEC housing is not available, the Program will assist the student in locating housing following the same rules and guidelines provided by AHEC. 

Individual needs beyond the scope of this policy may be considered on a case-by-case basis and in adherence with institutional policy.