MPAS Leave of Absence

The purpose of this policy is to outline the circumstances under which a student in the Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program may request a temporary Leave of Absence (LOA), and the procedures and conditions associated with such a leave. The policy ensures that students receive fair and consistent support while maintaining the academic and professional standards of the program.

This policy applies to all students enrolled in the University of Saskatchewan MPAS program and must be read in conjunction with the policies of the College of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies (CGPS), particularly the Accommodations and Supports Policy.

A leave of absence is a formal, approved, temporary withdrawal from academic activities in the MPAS program for a defined period of time, during which the student is not registered in courses and may not participate in program-related activities. Leaves will typically be at least one term (three to four months) in duration.  Leaves are intended to support students who face circumstances that significantly impact their ability to meet program requirements.

• Leaves of absence are intended to support student wellness, success, and retention, and to promote a healthy learning environment.
• Leaves will be considered on a case-by-case basis, and approval is not automatic.
• The MPAS program will strive to maintain fairness, consistency, and compassion in the consideration of all leave requests.
• Leaves must comply with both MPAS program requirements and CGPS regulations.

Students may request a Leave of Absence for the following reasons:

• Medical Leave (physical or mental health)
• Parental Leave
• Compassionate or Personal Leave
• Academic or Research Leave

Leaves not clearly falling under one of these categories will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

• Requests must be submitted in writing to the Academic Director or designate, using the MPAS Leave of Absence Request Form.
• Supporting documentation may be required depending on the nature of the leave.
• The request will be reviewed by the Academic Director in consultation with relevant faculty, staff, and CGPS where necessary.
• The decision will be communicated to the student in writing, normally within 10 business days.
• If internally approved, the terms of the leave (including duration, expectations, and return conditions) will be outlined in a formal Leave of Absence Agreement signed by the student and the Academic Director and sent to the CGPS for final approval.

• A leave of absence will be granted for a period of time of up to 12 months.
• Leaves longer than 12 months are not feasible due to the nature of the program and its fast-paced and highly integrated curriculum. Rare exceptions would require extenuating circumstances and approval from both the Academic Director and Dean of CGPS.
• The timing of the leave must align with program feasibility and will result in delay of progression and extension of program duration.

• Students must be in good academic standing to be eligible for a discretionary leave of absence.
• A leave of absence may delay the expected graduation date and may require re-integration planning and extension of training for the learner.
• Students on leave will not have access to MPAS clinical or academic learning activities unless explicitly approved.
• Students may be required to repeat previously completed coursework or assessments to ensure clinical readiness upon return.

• Students must notify the MPAS Program Director of their intention to return to the program at least 60 days prior to re-entry, unless otherwise specified.
• Re-entry may be conditional upon medical clearance, academic readiness, or space availability within a future cohort.
• Students will be supported in developing a Return to Learning Plan to facilitate successful reintegration into the program. The Return to Learning Plan is required to re-enter the program and needs to be signed by the Academic Director and student at least thirty days prior to planned program re-entry.

Students who are denied a leave of absence or who disagree with the terms of a leave may submit a written appeal to the Dean, Graduate Studies and Post Graduate Studies. Further appeal may follow CGPS policy and university procedures.

Program Manager, Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) Program
Phone: 306-966-4252