Program Overview

Department of Physician Assistant Studies

The Department of Physician Assistant Studies offers various programs, including the Master of Physician Assistant Studies, Doctor of Medical Science, Rural Health Post-Graduate Fellowship, and Graduate Certificates for Physician Assistants.

Degrees and Programs

• Master of Physician Assistant Studies
  • Degree information
  • Admission requirements
  • Program costs
  • Frequently asked questions
• Doctor of Medical Science
• Rural Health Post-Graduate Fellowship
• Graduate certificates for Physician Assistants
• Project ECHO

Admission Requirements

Requirements for Admission to the PA Program

Northern Arizona University has technical standards regarding expectations, minimum requirements for admission, and course prerequisites.

Minimum Requirements

Minimum requirements for admission include:

Prerequisite Course List

A general prerequisite course list is available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions are addressed in the program information.

Inquiries

Questions regarding the minimum requirements for admission should be directed to the appropriate department.

Preference Factors

The university publishes a non-discriminatory policy and gives preference to applicants who indicate a high potential for remaining in the state of Arizona to work following graduation, as well as individuals from targeted populations.

Applications

Both the CASPA (Central Application Service for Physician Assistants) and the NAU Office of Graduate and Professional Studies application must be completed by September 1 for consideration.

Matriculation Data

Matriculation data for the NAU Master of Physician Assistant Studies Class of 2023 Class of 2025 is available.

Technical Standards

NAU Physician Assistant Degree Requirements

This description defines the capabilities necessary for an individual to successfully complete the Northern Arizona University (NAU) Master of Physician Assistant Studies Program (MPAS) curriculum.

Physician Assistant Guidelines

Abilities and Expectations

Students admitted to the NAU MPAS must possess the following abilities and expectations:

1. Comply with all NAU student codes of conduct.
2. Observe and participate in all demonstrations and experiments in the basic sciences.
3. Participate in high fidelity, simulated, virtual, electronic, and online environments and learning experiences.
4. Learn to analyze, synthesize, problem solve, and reach diagnostic and therapeutic judgments.
5. Demonstrate the ability to perform inspection, palpation, auscultation, and percussion.
6. Examine patients from all levels of society, ethnic backgrounds, belief systems, and gender identity.
7. Relate to patients and establish an empathetic, professional, and effective relationship with patients.
8. Communicate the results of the examination to the patient and to their colleagues with accuracy, clarity, and efficiency.
9. Possess the ability to work collaboratively with all members of the health care team.
10. Learn and perform laboratory tests and diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.
11. Display appropriate judgment in the assessment and treatment of patients.
12. Learn to respond with precise, quick, and appropriate action in emergency situations.
13. Accept criticism and adopt appropriate modifications in their behavior.
14. Possess the ability to work collaboratively with all members of the health care team.
15. Develop mature, sensitive, professional, and effective relationships with patients, colleagues, faculty, and staff.
16. Have the emotional stability to function effectively under stress and adapt to an environment that may change rapidly without warning.
17. Have a high level of compassion for others, motivation to serve, integrity, and a consciousness of social values.
18. Work in classroom and clinical environments with possible exposure to communicable diseases, toxic substances, ionizing radiation, medicinal preparations, and other such conditions common to the medical and surgical fields.
19. Travel to and live in remote, rural, and/or distance locations from their home base to complete clinical experiences.

Clearance Requirements

Students must provide evidence of:

• Recent physical examination
• Up-to-date immunization status (including annual tuberculosis screening and annual flu shot)
• Criminal background check
• Drug screen(s)

Re-evaluation Requirements

Any student who takes an extended leave of absence ( 12 months) from the PA curriculum for any reason must resubmit evidence of recent physical examination and up-to-date immunization status.

Students with Disabilities

If you have a documented disability, you can request accommodations by contacting the Disability Resources department.