Northeastern University's development of an elective course on aspects of cancer prevention for physician assistants is described. Faculty addressed such problems as the selection of course content, the need to make it clinically applicable, and the design of a final product that permits replication of presentation. The course uses a variety of teaching modalities such as audiovisual presentation and self-instructional modules, and a format that permits updating of content. The course was presented at four sites in different states using several scheduling variations. Course components were systematically evaluated by students and faculty, and student examination performance was analyzed. There was consistent evidence of attainment of cognitive objectives. Acquisition and retention of information was due partly to the use of self-instructional modules with review exercises and self-tests. The final field trial of the complete course provided partial support for positive attitude change regarding the efficacy of prevention. Presentation of the course as a one-semester offering, and/or assignment of course components to other courses, were considered by participants and faculty to be satisfactory formats. (SW)