Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Medical Science in Physician Associate Medicine (MMSc-PA) Program

The Master of Medical Science in Physician Associate Medicine (MMSc-PA) program at Palm Beach Atlantic University is designed to cultivate knowledgeable, adaptable, and empathetic physician associates who can deliver patient-centered and service-oriented care in diverse settings. The program aims to transform healthcare and benefit both individuals and communities with a faith-based mission.

Program Description

The MMSc-PA program is a comprehensive 28-month graduate program that integrates faith-based principles with training for individuals pursuing certification and licensure as a physician associate (PA). The program consists of 125 graduate credits, including nine clinical rotations meticulously designed to blend didactic education with real-world clinical experiences. The program prepares students for clinical practice, focusing on diverse rotations within the local community.

Program Details

• The program envisions enrolling 56 students per cohort, fostering a collaborative and enriching environment for students and faculty.
• The program builds upon the esteemed reputation of Palm Beach Atlantic University's nationally recognized pre-health, nursing, pharmacy, and other health science programs.
• Through immersive experiential learning, integration of faith, and dedicated mentorship from faculty, students will be equipped to deliver exceptional, patient-centered, and compassionate care to all needy individuals.

Admission and Enrollment

Cohort Information

• Cohorts begin each Fall.
• Applications for the Fall 2026 cohort will open on July 1, 2025, with projected seats for 56 students.
• Applications for the Fall 2027 cohort will open on May 1, 2026, with projected seats for 56 students.

PA Medicine Mission Statement

The mission of PA Medicine is to develop highly qualified PAs that embrace servant leadership and provide culturally competent care.

Career Potential

• Physician assistants are in high demand, with the U.S. News and World Report ranking them #2 among the best healthcare jobs.
• The demand for healthcare services is growing due to an increasing and aging population.
• Physician associates play a vital role in independently attending to patients and providing many of the same services as doctors.
• Employment outlook: 28% increase from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.
• Median salary (2023): $130,020.

Student Attrition

The program's student attrition data will be available once the program has enrolled students and completed an academic cycle.

NCCPA Certification

Upon fulfilling all curricular requirements, graduates become eligible to sit for the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE).

Accreditation

The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) has granted Accreditation-Provisional status to the Palm Beach Atlantic Physician Assistant Program. Accreditation-Provisional is an accreditation status granted when the plans and resource allocation of a proposed program appear to demonstrate the program's ability to meet the ARC-PA standards.