Program Overview

Introduction to the Physician Assistant Program

The Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Physician Assistant Program is an accredited, graduate-level program awarding a Master of Medical Science degree. The Program features an innovative 24-month curriculum. Our mission is to prepare PAs to provide compassionate, high-quality, patient-centered care as members of interprofessional teams. The graduates will be culturally sensitive, committed to continuous learning and professional development, and make significant contributions to communities and the advancement of the PA profession.

Program Overview

• The program is designed to educate the next generation of PAs.
• It is a 24-month graduate-level program.
• The program awards a Master of Medical Science degree.

Program Goals

We're working hard to be the national leader in PA education and to prepare physician assistants of the highest quality. Our program's main goals include:

• Preparing PAs to provide compassionate, high-quality, patient-centered care.
• Ensuring graduates are culturally sensitive and committed to continuous learning and professional development.
• Making significant contributions to communities and the advancement of the PA profession.

Accreditation

The Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Physician Assistant Program was reaccredited in March 2023.

PANCE Results

Our average first-time test-taker pass rate over the most recent 5-year period is 98%.

Curriculum

• The program features an innovative 24-month curriculum.
• The curriculum includes:
  • Didactic year
  • Clinical year
  • Problem-Based Learning (PBL)
  • Clinical Rotations
  • Facilities & Resources

Problem-Based Learning (PBL)

PBL is a key component of the program, where students work in small cohorts to apply real patient experiences to solve complex cases. This collaborative and active learning environment makes learning more engaging and meaningful.

Admissions

• The program has a competitive admissions process.
• Information sessions are available for prospective students.
• The application process includes:
  • How to Apply Overview
  • Next Steps
  • Military Applicants
  • International Applicants
  • NU PA Program Class of 2027 NM Employee Scholarship

Cost of Attendance & Financial Aid

Information on cost of attendance and financial aid is available.

Class & Student Profiles

• Class Profile: Information on the current class of students.
• Student Profiles: Impressions, advice, and perspectives shared by current students and alumni.

Clinical Preceptors

The program works with clinical preceptors to provide students with hands-on experience in various clinical settings.

Faculty

• Principal Faculty: A list of principal faculty members.
• A-Z Faculty: A comprehensive list of faculty members in alphabetical order.

Student Testimonials

• Antara Kulkarni (she/her), First-Year Student, Class of 2027: PBL is the highlight of my week, where we work together to solve complex cases.
• Anna Mohling (she/her), First-Year Student, Class of 2027: The class culture is uplifting, lively, and incredibly supportive.
• Nowie Se (he/him), First-Year Student, Class of 2027: The faculty are warm, friendly, and welcoming, and they truly invest time in ensuring students feel supported and prepared.
• Rachel Okine (she/her), Second-Year Student, Class of 2026: I feel capable and impactful in the clinical setting, and I've grown more confident in my clinical skills.
• Johnny Phan (he/him), Second-Year Student, Class of 2026: The lung transplant rotation was profoundly meaningful, and I witnessed the entire transplant process from start to finish.
• Simo Bambi (she/her), Second-Year Student, Class of 2026: The transition to the clinical year has been incredibly rewarding, and I've seen concepts come to life in the clinical setting.