Penn State University Physician Assistant: Expert Training Guaranteed

Penn State University is renowned for its rigorous academic programs, and its Physician Assistant (PA) program is no exception. The university's PA program is designed to provide students with the comprehensive education and training necessary to succeed in this demanding yet rewarding field. With a strong focus on primary care and a commitment to excellence, Penn State University's PA program is an ideal choice for individuals seeking a career as a physician assistant.

Program Overview

The Physician Assistant program at Penn State University is a 24-month master’s degree program that combines classroom instruction with clinical training. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) and is designed to prepare students for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE). The curriculum is divided into two phases: the didactic phase, which focuses on foundational sciences and clinical medicine, and the clinical phase, which provides hands-on experience in a variety of clinical settings.

Didactic Phase

The didactic phase of the program is 12 months in duration and provides students with a solid foundation in the sciences and clinical medicine. Courses include anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and pathophysiology, as well as classes on behavioral medicine and health promotion. Students also participate in small group sessions and case-based learning activities to develop their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Clinical Phase

The clinical phase of the program is 12 months in duration and provides students with hands-on experience in a variety of clinical settings. Students participate in rotations in primary care, surgery, pediatrics, and emergency medicine, among others. They work alongside experienced physicians and PAs to develop their clinical skills and learn how to diagnose and manage patients with a range of medical conditions.

Admissions Requirements

Admission to Penn State University’s PA program is highly competitive, and applicants must meet certain requirements to be considered. These include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a minimum overall GPA of 3.0, and a minimum science GPA of 3.0. Applicants must also complete a series of prerequisite courses, including anatomy, physiology, biology, and chemistry.

Application Process

The application process for Penn State University’s PA program typically begins in April of each year, and applicants must submit their materials through the Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA). The application must include official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Applicants who are selected for an interview will be notified in the summer, and classes typically begin in May of each year.