Program Overview

Introduction to the Physician Assistant Program

The Physician Assistant Program (PA) at the University of Utah, School of Medicine is one of the oldest PA programs in the country, and has held continued accreditation since 1971. We are proud of our heritage that includes the MEDEX model and co-sponsorship of the Utah Medical Association, the largest constituency association in the state of Utah.

Program Overview

The emphasis of our mission-based curriculum is educating physician assistants to evaluate, diagnose, and manage acute and chronic conditions in patients of all ages utilizing a primary care model. The program trains physician assistants to work with physicians as part of a health care team to improve the quality and access to primary care. At the successful completion of training, students are awarded a Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) degree.

Accreditation Status

• The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) has granted Accreditation-Continued status to the Utah Physician Assistant Program sponsored by University of Utah School of Medicine and the Utah Medical Association.
• Accreditation-Continued is an accreditation status granted when a currently accredited program is in compliance with the ARC-PA Standards.
• Accreditation remains in effect until the program closes or withdraws from the accreditation process or until accreditation is withdrawn for failure to comply with the Standards.
• The approximate date for the next validation review of the program by the ARC-PA will be March 2026.

Program Details

• The program is part of the Division of Physician Assistant Education and Sciences with campuses located both in Salt Lake City and St. George, Utah.
• The program offers the following:
  • Master in Public Health and PA Studies (MPH/MPAS)
  • Master in Gerontology and PA Studies (MSG/MPAS)
• Student resources include:
  • Student Scholarships
  • Student Leadership
  • International Opportunities
  • St. George Campus
  • Salt Lake Campus
  • PA Facts
  • Why UPAP?

Curriculum and Policies

• The program's curriculum is designed to educate physician assistants to evaluate, diagnose, and manage acute and chronic conditions in patients of all ages.
• Program policies are in place to ensure the successful completion of training and to maintain accreditation standards.

Conclusion

The Physician Assistant Program at the University of Utah, School of Medicine is a well-established program with a strong heritage and a commitment to educating high-quality physician assistants. With its mission-based curriculum and continued accreditation, the program is an excellent choice for those seeking a career in physician assistant education.