Program Overview

Introduction to the CMU Physician Assistant Program

The Colorado Mesa University's Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) Program has achieved Accreditation-Continued status from the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, Inc. (ARC-PA). This milestone recognizes the program's commitment to providing exceptional healthcare education and its dedication to meeting the highest standards in physician assistant education.

Program Overview

The MPAS Program is a 27-month program that consists of didactic and clinical academic work. The program has a maximum class size of 28 students. Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for the national certification examination for physician assistants through the National Commission on the Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) and can then apply for licensure through the Colorado Board of Medical Examiners.

Program Mission

The program's mission is to provide a learner-centered environment that educates competent and compassionate PAs, who are committed to leading through service in their career and communities. Faculty support students through the program's mission by providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

Accreditation and Recognition

The program underwent a comprehensive review, including a site visit and a deep dive into the accreditation history, to receive the Accreditation-Continued status. This recognition is a testament to the program's commitment to meeting the highest standards in physician assistant education and to serving a region that desperately needs knowledgeable, caring healthcare professionals.

Student Accolades

Three MPAS students have won prestigious awards from the Colorado Academy of Physician Assistants (CAPA). CMU's Sarah Kay Pollock is the CAPA 2024 Student of the year, and Rachel Greene and Taylor Teske both received $500 each for winning the Student Scholarship award. These awards recognize the students' dedication to the profession, leadership qualities, and community service involvement.

Program Details

• The program is 27 months long
• The program has a maximum class size of 28 students
• Graduates are eligible to sit for the national certification examination for physician assistants
• The program is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, Inc. (ARC-PA)
• The program's next review is tentatively scheduled for September 2033

CAPA Awards

• CAPA is a chapter of the American Academy of Physician Assistants
• The purpose of CAPA is to promote the PA profession to Colorado's community, provide community health education projects, offer continued education, and ensure proper use of PAs in the State of Colorado
• The CAPA awards recognize PA students' dedication to the profession, leadership qualities, and community service involvement