Immunization Policy and International Travel

University Immunization Policy

In accordance with state law and University policy, all undergraduate and graduate students are required to provide proof of immunization or demonstrate their immunity to specific vaccine-preventable diseases. Students preparing for a clinical rotation or professional practice phase must comply with the immunization requirements of this policy and any additional requirements mandated by the clinical site.

For additional University Immunization information on waivers, exemptions, and the procedures/timeline of collecting and storing immunization records visit the Student Immunization Compliance website. If you have any questions that cannot be answered from this source, please contact Program Director Altongy-Magee at kristy.altongy-magee@mcphs.edu.

View the Student Immunization Policy.

University Required Immunizations for Physician Assistant Studies

Please note: MCPHS immunization requirements for MPAS M/W Physician Assistant students are based on current CDC health professionals recommendations as well as the state of Massachusetts and New Hampshire recommendations and requirements.

• Measles vaccinations: 2 immunizations at least 4 weeks apart and the first dose must have been received on or after the student's 1st birthday; or laboratory evidence of immunity.
• Mumps vaccinations: 2 immunizations at least 4 weeks apart and the first dose must have been received on or after the student's 1st birthday; or laboratory evidence of immunity.
• Rubella vaccinations: 2 immunizations at least 4 weeks apart and the first dose must have been received on or after the student's 1st birthday; or laboratory evidence of immunity
• Tetanus Diphtheria Pertussis vaccinations: 1 dose of Tdap and either a history of DTaP primary series or age appropriate catch-up vaccination. Tdap received ≥ 7 years may be counted, but a dose at age 11-12 is recommended if Tdap was received earlier as part of a catch-up schedule. Td should be received if it has been ≥10 years since last Tdap.
• Hepatitis B immunization series: 3 doses followed by laboratory evidence of immunity; or Heplisav-B vaccine (2 doses, first dose must be given on or after the student's 18th birthday, and the second dose must be given at least 28 days after the first dose) followed by laboratory evidence of immunity. Laboratory evidence of immunity August 20, 2025 62 alone is also acceptable.
• Varicella vaccinations: 2 immunizations at least 4 weeks apart and the first dose must have been received on or after the student's 1st birthday; or laboratory evidence of immunity; or physician diagnosis of varicella.
• Meningococcal vaccination: 1 dose of MenACWY (formerly MCV4) received on or after the student's 16th birthday required only for students under the age of 22. Meningococcal B vaccine does not meet this requirement. Clinical Requirements
• Annual Tuberculosis skin test or Tuberculosis blood test. If results are positive, a clear chest x-ray with laboratory report or physician verification of results; or a physician letter verifying the student is symptom free is required each year.
• An annual influenza shot must be obtained when the vaccine for the annual flu season becomes available each fall.

*During the clinical phase of the program, please note that certain healthcare agencies and clinical training sites hosting clinical rotations may require additional immunizations or testing beyond the University Required Immunizations listed above. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health requires healthcare personnel to be vaccinated annually against COVID-19, in line with CDC recommendations (this applies to physician assistant students placed at any of these clinical rotations).

Program International Travel:

Physician Assistant students participating in university-sponsored international programs are connected to the Center for International Studies (CIS) for guidance on travel requirements. The CIS aligns immunization guidance with that which is issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for destination-specific travel. Students participating in international programs are responsible for researching and adhering to all vaccination and health requirements published by CDC. Additional information and support are made available through the University's international travel insurance partner, ISOS.

As part of their pre-departure requirements, each student traveler is required to submit to CIS a health clearance form completed by their PCP or comparable healthcare professional. Specific international partners may have additional documentation requirements, communicate additional recommendations or requirements on immunization, and provide further travel information specific to their program and destination(s).

Students preparing to participate in international clinical rotations are encouraged to discuss any potential vaccinations with a qualified travel health professional to insure and safeguard their health while abroad. Students are informed that MCPHS-approved vaccination waivers are subject to host-country review and may not be accepted or may require additional approvals.