Top Physician Assistant Programs to Launch Your Clinical Career
If you're pursuing a career as a physician assistant (PA), choosing the right PA school is an important first step. The best physician assistant programs in the U.S. offer rigorous academics, exceptional clinical rotations, and strong licensure preparation. With over 300 accredited PA programs nationwide, selecting one can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down some of the leading schools and what makes them stand out, especially if your goal is to thrive in demanding clinical settings.
What Makes a Top Physician Assistant School?
Physician assistant education in the U.S. is designed to equip you with critical diagnostic, clinical, and interpersonal skills. Top programs go a step further with high PANCE pass rates, diverse specialty rotations, modern labs, and mentorship from experienced faculty.
When evaluating a PA program, you'll want to consider the following:
- Program Accreditation by ARC-PA (Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant)
- Graduate PANCE (Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam) pass rates
- Clinical rotation opportunities across various specialties
- Faculty qualifications and research involvement
- School reputation and alumni network
- Location, cost, and length of the program
Best PA Schools in the U.S. Based on PANCE Results and Clinical Training
Here are top-rated physician assistant programs based on national rankings, employer preferences, and graduate outcomes:
Duke University – Durham, NC
Duke created the first PA program in the country in 1965. It continues to lead in innovation and outcomes.
- 96% first-time PANCE pass rate
- Strong emphasis on primary care and community health
- Small class sizes and hands-on faculty mentorship
University of Iowa – Iowa City, IA
This Midwestern powerhouse is known for its academic rigor and commitment to rural medicine training.
- Consistently high licensure pass rates
- Opportunities for interprofessional education with med students, nurses, and pharmacists
- Affordable tuition for in-state applicants
Emory University – Atlanta, GA
Located in Georgia’s medical hub, Emory’s PA program places a strong focus on underserved populations.
- Diverse clinical rotation sites including Grady Memorial Hospital
- Global humanitarian electives available
- Emphasis on leadership and lifelong learning
George Washington University – Washington, D.C.
GW offers a strong academic curriculum combined with access to top medical centers in the D.C. area.
- Dual-degree options available (PA/MPH)
- Focus on healthcare policy and underserved communities
- High graduate employment rates
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center – Dallas, TX
One of the top medical centers in the U.S., offering a well-connected clinical experience.
- Affiliated with teaching hospitals like Parkland Memorial
- Median graduate salary is among the highest nationally (BLS PA salary data)
- Tuition advantage for Texas residents
Affordable and Accessible PA Schools for Aspiring Clinicians
Cost is an important factor when choosing a PA program. Luckily, great education doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are programs known for high quality and affordability:
University of Florida – Gainesville, FL
- Low in-state tuition with excellent academic outcomes
- Integrated rotations in rural and urban settings
- Support for minority and first-generation students
Stony Brook University – Long Island, NY
- Well-respected SUNY program with affordable costs
- Ranked top in PA education value
- Strong ties to the healthcare system in New York
University of Utah – Salt Lake City, UT
- Focus on serving underserved communities in the Mountain West
- Excellent staff-to-student ratio
- High job placement rate after graduation
How to Choose a Physician Assistant Program That’s Right for You
Every student has a different path. To find the PA school that suits your goals, think beyond rankings. Consider your learning style, preferred learning environment, and how a school’s mission aligns with your values.
Here are some key questions to ask:
- Do you want to work in a specific location or healthcare system after graduation?
- Are you interested in a specialty such as pediatrics, orthopedics, or emergency medicine?
- Do you prefer large university settings or smaller clinical institutions?
- Do you need flexible learning formats or hybrid options?
Programs with diverse clinical rotation sites and faculty with real-world experience can give you a leg up when applying to jobs after graduation. Look for those with strong support services, career counseling, and licensing exam prep.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a physician assistant?
Most physician assistant programs take about 2 to 3 years to complete. This includes classroom instruction and clinical rotations. After graduation, you’ll need to pass the PANCE exam and complete continuing education to maintain certification.
What GPA do you need to get into a PA program?
Most PA schools require a minimum GPA between 3.0 and 3.5. Competitive programs often have higher average accepted GPAs. Admissions committees also consider healthcare experience, GRE scores, and letters of recommendation.
Do all PA programs require the GRE?
No, not all PA programs require the GRE. Some have dropped this requirement to encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds. Always check each school’s admission guidelines for current testing policies.
Which state pays physician assistants the most?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the highest-paying states for PAs include Alaska, California, and Washington. Median annual salaries in these states range from $125,000 to $145,000 due to demand and cost of living.
