Program Overview

Atkinson Physician Assistant Education Program

The Master of Advanced Study in Physician Assistant Studies degree prepares graduates to deliver care as physician assistants. In alignment with the Program's vision of academic and clinical excellence, the mission of the physician assistant program is to recruit and retain learners who reflect the diverse population of California who will provide safe, effective, person-centered health care in various settings to improve the health and well-being of the patients and communities we serve.

Training for the Future

Bridging cutting-edge research with clinical care, and serving diverse, vibrant communities throughout Southern California.

The Curriculum

Be a Triton PA

Join an innovative physician assistant program at one of the nation's top medical schools.

The Application Process

Applying to Our Program

Accepting applications April 2026

Meet the Program

Stay up to date with our latest webinar, on-campus, and partner events.

In the News

Finding Beauty in the Struggles

PA student Oscar Monzon turns life's toughest moments into motivation to serve others

Clinician Educators

We’re seeking clinicians to participate in our didactic and/or clinical program phases.

Accreditation Status Statement

The ARC-PA has granted Accreditation-Provisional status to the University of California San Diego Atkinson Physician Assistant Education Program sponsored by the University of California San Diego.

Accreditation-Provisional is an accreditation status granted when the plans and resource allocation, if fully implemented as planned, of a proposed program that has not yet enrolled students appear to demonstrate the program's ability to meet the ARC-PA standards or when a program holding Accreditation-Provisional status appears to demonstrate continued progress in complying with the standards as it prepares for the graduation of the first class (cohort) of students.

Accreditation-Provisional does not ensure any subsequent accreditation status. It is limited to no more than five years from matriculation of the first class.

Education

• Physician Assistant Program
  • About Us
  • Admissions
  • Academics
  • Events
  • Student Life
• Pathway Programs
• MD & Combined Programs
• Graduate Programs (MS & PhD)
• Residency & Fellowship Programs
• Education & Training Facilities
• Faculty Development
• Continuing Professional Development
• Medical Education & Technology

Program Details

• The program prepares graduates to deliver care as physician assistants.
• The mission is to recruit and retain learners who reflect the diverse population of California.
• The program aims to provide safe, effective, person-centered health care in various settings.
• The program is designed to improve the health and well-being of patients and communities.
• The program is accredited by the ARC-PA with an Accreditation-Provisional status.