Best Physician Assistant Programs

The U.S. News & World Report's ranking of the best graduate Physician Assistant (PA) programs offers a valuable perspective on the quality and reputation of institutions providing advanced education in this field. The 2008 edition highlighted top programs that are recognized for their commitment to excellence in training healthcare professionals, specifically Physician Assistants. These programs are known for their rigorous curricula, clinical training opportunities, and strong connections with healthcare facilities that enhance the practical experience of their students.

Ranked at number one, the University of Iowa stands out for its comprehensive PA program that blends rigorous academic coursework with clinical experiences in various medical settings. The University of Iowa has long been a leader in health education and has developed a well-respected Physician Assistant program that is widely regarded for preparing students for the demands of the healthcare industry.

Close behind in second place is Duke University, which has long been known for its innovative medical and healthcare programs. Duke's PA program is one of the oldest in the country and is recognized for its emphasis on leadership in healthcare, evidence-based practice, and hands-on learning. The program’s faculty and clinical partners ensure that students are exposed to a wide range of medical conditions, preparing them to be adaptable and effective healthcare providers.

In third place, Emory University offers a PA program known for its strong academic rigor and deep engagement with clinical practice. Emory’s program integrates teaching, research, and clinical rotations, allowing students to develop a comprehensive understanding of medical care, as well as specialized expertise. The university’s affiliation with a renowned medical center offers students access to cutting-edge healthcare technologies and expertise.

The fourth position in the rankings is shared by George Washington University, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, and the University of Utah. Each of these institutions offers robust PA programs that focus on producing well-rounded healthcare professionals who are skilled in diagnosing, treating, and managing patient care across various medical settings. George Washington University stands out for its emphasis on public health, community involvement, and urban healthcare issues. The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas is recognized for its world-class healthcare resources and research, providing students with exceptional clinical training. The University of Utah has a program that prioritizes the integration of new technologies and interdisciplinary care, ensuring that students are prepared for modern healthcare challenges.

Ranked seventh, University of Washington provides a comprehensive PA program with an emphasis on healthcare for underserved populations. The university’s commitment to community service and rural healthcare training ensures that graduates are well-prepared to work in diverse medical environments. This program’s dedication to improving healthcare accessibility in underserved areas is particularly noteworthy.

University of Colorado–Denver, ranked eighth, is known for its interdisciplinary approach to healthcare education, collaborating across medical and health sciences departments. The program’s strong partnerships with hospitals, clinics, and public health organizations provide students with diverse clinical experiences, preparing them to serve in various healthcare environments.

In the ninth position, both Baylor College of Medicine and Oregon Health and Sciences University (OHSU) offer rigorous PA programs that combine traditional education with practical, hands-on clinical experiences. Baylor’s program is known for its focus on developing leadership skills and advancing clinical knowledge, while OHSU has a reputation for integrating clinical care with research to help students better understand the medical challenges they will face in the field.

Each of these top-ranked PA programs is known for its excellence in preparing students for the demanding and rewarding profession of Physician Assistant. These programs provide students with both the theoretical knowledge and clinical experience required to become successful healthcare professionals.

Tied at the 11th position in the rankings, the Interservice Physician Assistant Program (IPAP) stands out as a unique program designed specifically for military personnel. The program is offered by the U.S. Department of Defense and is one of the few military-focused PA programs available in the country. IPAP offers a highly specialized curriculum tailored to meet the healthcare needs of military service members. Graduates of this program serve as physician assistants in various branches of the U.S. military, providing critical medical care in both combat and non-combat situations. Its close association with military healthcare settings gives students hands-on experience in challenging environments, making it an exceptional program for those who wish to serve in the military.

The State University of New York–Stony Brook is also ranked 11th. Stony Brook's PA program is highly regarded for its strong academic curriculum, hands-on clinical training, and close integration with local healthcare systems. Students have access to a diverse array of clinical settings, from urban hospitals to rural healthcare clinics, which helps them gain a well-rounded understanding of the healthcare landscape. Stony Brook is particularly known for its commitment to research, allowing students to work alongside faculty on various medical studies that contribute to the field of healthcare.

Also sharing the 11th spot is the University of Texas Medical Branch–Galveston (UTMB). UTMB’s PA program is distinguished by its long history of excellence in healthcare education. The program emphasizes patient-centered care, and students are provided with a variety of opportunities to interact with patients in real-world clinical settings. UTMB is affiliated with a renowned medical center, which provides students with access to cutting-edge medical technology and advanced healthcare practices. The university’s focus on innovation and clinical research ensures that students are well-prepared to meet the evolving challenges in healthcare.

Ranked 14th are Quinnipiac University, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, and the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC). Quinnipiac University’s PA program is known for its commitment to community-based learning, providing students with opportunities to work in a range of healthcare settings, including hospitals, private practices, and community health centers. The program emphasizes leadership development and ethical decision-making, preparing graduates to lead healthcare teams effectively.

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science offers a PA program that integrates biomedical sciences, clinical medicine, and community health initiatives. The program is designed to train students to become leaders in the healthcare field by providing them with both clinical expertise and an understanding of the broader social determinants of health. The university’s focus on interprofessional education ensures that students gain valuable insights from a variety of healthcare disciplines.

At the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), the PA program is distinguished by its innovative curriculum and emphasis on hands-on training. Students are exposed to a wide range of clinical experiences, including rotations in rural and underserved areas, which helps them develop a deep understanding of the healthcare challenges faced by diverse populations. UNMC’s strong focus on research and evidence-based practice ensures that its PA graduates are prepared to contribute to the ongoing development of medical knowledge and healthcare delivery.

Tied at the 17th position, Northeastern University, St. Louis University, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ), and the University of Texas Health Science Center–San Antonio all offer excellent PA programs that combine academic rigor with extensive clinical exposure.

Northeastern University’s PA program is known for its commitment to providing students with diverse clinical experiences, which range from urban medical centers to community health organizations. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, preparing students to tackle a wide range of medical challenges. Northeastern also boasts a strong global health component, offering students opportunities to participate in international healthcare programs.

St. Louis University’s PA program is renowned for its focus on service to underserved communities. The program has a strong emphasis on social justice and healthcare equity, ensuring that students understand the importance of providing compassionate care to individuals in diverse and economically disadvantaged settings. Students benefit from the university’s close ties to local healthcare facilities, which provide ample opportunities for hands-on training and clinical rotations.

The University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ), now known as Rutgers University, has long been a respected institution for healthcare education. The PA program at UMDNJ emphasizes collaboration, with students learning alongside other healthcare professionals in an interprofessional setting. This approach ensures that graduates are prepared to work in multidisciplinary teams, a critical skill for modern healthcare providers.

Finally, the University of Texas Health Science Center–San Antonio offers a highly regarded PA program with a strong focus on patient-centered care. The program places a significant emphasis on developing clinical skills and professional competence, preparing students to provide high-quality care in a wide range of medical environments. The program’s affiliation with the University of Texas Health Science Center allows students to work with experienced faculty and healthcare professionals, gaining exposure to cutting-edge medical practices and research.

These programs represent a diverse group of institutions that are committed to providing high-quality education and training for future Physician Assistants. Each of these schools offers unique features, from community health initiatives to cutting-edge research opportunities, making them top choices for aspiring PAs. By preparing students with the necessary clinical skills, theoretical knowledge, and professional competencies, these programs contribute significantly to the healthcare field, ensuring that their graduates are equipped to meet the ever-evolving demands of patient care.

Ranking of Best Graduate Physician Assistant Programs:
1 University of Iowa
2 Duke University
3 Emory University
4 George Washington University
4 University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas
4 University of Utah
7 University of Washington
8 University of Colorado–Denver
9 Baylor College of Medicine
9 Oregon Health and Sciences University (OHSU)
11 Interservice Physician Assistant Program
11 State University of New York–Stony Brook
11 University of Texas Medical Branch–Galveston
14 Quinnipiac University
14 Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science
14 University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC)
17 Northeastern University
17 St. Louis University
17 University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ)
17 University of Texas Health Science Center–San Antonio
21 St. Francis University
21 University of Florida
23 Shenandoah University
23 University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
23 Wake Forest University
26 Arizona School of Health Sciences
26 DeSales University
26 Drexel University
26 Medical College of Georgia
26 Midwestern University (Georgia)
26 Midwestern University (Arizona)
26 University of Alabama–Birmingham
26 Wichita State University
34 Lock Haven University
34 Marietta College
34 Philadelphia University
34 University of Detroit Mercy (UDM)
34 University of North Texas
34 University of Wisconsin–La Crosse
40 Duquesne Univ
40 James Madison Univ
40 Marquette Univ
40 Stanford Univ
40 Wayne State Univ
40 Western Michigan Univ
40 Yale Univ
47 Augsburg College
47 Western Uni of Health Sciences
49 Central Michigan Univ
49 Des Moines Univ
49 East Carolina Univ
49 Medical Uni of South Carolina
49 Pacific University
49 Springfield College
49 Uni of South Alabama
49 Uni of Southern California (USC)
57 Albany Medical College
57 Arcadia Univ
57 Chatham College
57 Eastern Virginia Medical School
57 Loma Linda Univ
57 New York Institute of Technology (NYIT)
57 Nova Southeastern Univ
57 Seton Hall Univ
57 Seton Hill Univ
57 Texas Tech Univ
57 Union College
57 Uni of New England–Biddeford
69 Barry Univ
69 Idaho State Univ
69 Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
69 Uni of South Dakota
69 Uni of Toledo
Source: US News & World Report 2008 Edition