Program Overview

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Physician Assistant Studies Program

Program Description

The Physician Assistant Studies program is designed to provide students with the necessary education and training to become competent physician assistants.

Accreditation

The program is accredited by the relevant accrediting agency.

Mission, Goals, and Competencies

The mission of the program is to provide high-quality education and training to physician assistant students. The goals and competencies of the program are designed to ensure that graduates are well-prepared to practice as physician assistants.

PANCE Scores

The program's PANCE scores are a measure of the success of its graduates.

Student Attrition

The program's student attrition rate is an important indicator of its effectiveness.

Honors & Awards

The program recognizes and rewards outstanding student achievement through various honors and awards.

Admissions

Admissions Overview

The admissions process for the Physician Assistant Studies program is highly competitive. Applicants must meet the program's admission requirements and follow the application process.

Admissions FAQ

Frequently asked questions about the admissions process are answered in the Admissions FAQ section.

Characteristics of an Admitted Student

The program looks for applicants who possess certain characteristics, including a strong academic record and relevant work experience.

Why Choose JMU PA?

Program Features

The program offers several features that make it an attractive choice for students, including a comprehensive curriculum and experienced faculty.

Program FAQs

Frequently asked questions about the program are answered in the Program FAQs section.

Student Wellness and Resiliency

The program recognizes the importance of student wellness and resiliency and provides support to help students manage the demands of the program.

Program Expenses

The program's expenses are outlined, including tuition and fees.

Physician Assistant Student Society (PASS)

The Physician Assistant Student Society (PASS) is a student organization that provides support and resources to students in the program.

Sample Student Schedule

A sample student schedule is provided to give applicants an idea of what to expect in the program.

Instructional Methods

The program uses a variety of instructional methods, including lectures, discussions, and hands-on training.

Curriculum

Curriculum Overview

The program's curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in physician assistant studies.

Capstone Project

The capstone project is a culminating experience that requires students to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world setting.

Skills Workshops

The program offers skills workshops to help students develop the skills they need to practice as physician assistants.

Training/Certifications

The program provides training and certification in various areas, including basic life support and advanced cardiovascular life support.

Student-Engaged Medical Clinic

The student-engaged medical clinic provides students with hands-on experience in a clinical setting.

White Coats on Call

The White Coats on Call program provides students with the opportunity to work in a hospital setting.

Suitcase Clinic

The Suitcase Clinic is a unique learning experience that allows students to work with underserved populations.

International Experiences

The program offers international experiences that provide students with the opportunity to work in global health settings.

Inclusive Excellence Inventory

The Inclusive Excellence Inventory is a tool used to assess the program's commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Application Process

Part One

The application process consists of two parts. Part one requires applicants to apply to the JMU Graduate School.

• Applicants must submit a Graduate School application, which can be found on the JMU website.
• The Graduate School application requires a $60 application fee, which can be waived for applicants who cannot afford it.
• Applicants do not need to submit letters of recommendation or transcripts with the Graduate School application.
• However, if an applicant is offered admission to the PA program, they will need to send original transcripts to the JMU Graduate School prior to beginning classes.

Part Two

Part two requires applicants to apply to the PA Program through the Central Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA).

• Applicants must complete all aspects of the CASPA application, including letters of recommendation and transcripts.
• The CASPA application requires a fee, which can be waived for applicants who cannot afford it.
• Applicants must upload their JMU Graduate School application PDF file into the "Documents" section of the CASPA application.
• Applications to both the Graduate School and CASPA must be submitted by June 15th.
• CASPA forwards only complete and verified applications to the PA Program.
• A complete and verified CASPA application contains all required information, including the uploaded JMU Graduate School application, transcripts, and letters of recommendation.
• CASPA must verify the application by July 15th for it to be considered by the PA program.

Letters of Recommendation

Three letters of recommendation are required, and they should be from prior supervisors/employers, university professors, and/or medical professionals who have observed the applicant working or volunteering in a patient care environment.

Deadlines

The following deadlines apply to the application process:

• Cycle opens: April 24, 2026
• Application due to CASPA and JMU Graduate School: June 15, 2026
• CASPA verification deadline: July 15, 2026
• Interviews of top candidates: Summer/Fall 2026
• Commitment response and $1,000 deposit due: Two weeks after invitation
• Program classes begin (with mandatory on-campus orientation 2-days prior): Late August 2027

Deposit

A non-refundable $1,000 deposit is required to hold a seat in the incoming cohort. This payment must be made by the deadline, and it will be put towards the student's tuition if they matriculate into the program.