Program Overview
Introduction to the Emory University School of Medicine Physician Assistant Program
The Master’s in Medical Science degree in Physician Assistant medicine at Emory is a dynamic and comprehensive program dedicated to preparing PAs of the future. As one of the nation's founding programs, the Program seeks visionary applicants dedicated to providing for underserved and innovating for the future. Through rigorous learning, a community of peers, and dynamic clinical training opportunities, our Program provides a pathway towards clinical excellence and future leadership.
Program Mission and Values
The Emory Physician Assistant Program recruits, educates, and mentors students to become highly regarded physician assistants providing compassionate health care of the highest quality. The Program values the highest standards of professionalism and team-based medicine with a commitment to the medically underserved. Graduates are prepared to practice evidence-based primary care and preventive medicine, engage in lifelong learning, and assume future leadership roles.
Program Options and Admissions
The Emory PA program offers a variety of education options for students interested in a career as a PA. These include:
- Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Degree - MMSc-PA
- Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Degree and Master of Public Health Dual Degree - MMSc-PA/MPH
- Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Degree and Master of Business Administration Dual Degree - MMSC-PA/MBA
Applicants who have served their communities or their countries through volunteer activities, military service, employment opportunities, and/or service-oriented programs greatly enhance the cultural perspective of the class.
Emory PA Education
The Emory PA education is designed for those seeking a rigorous learning environment, a diverse and inclusive classroom, individual mentorship, and a community of peers. Through hands-on clinical experiences and small group training, we equip our future PAs with the skills to provide holistic care that addresses medical needs and psychosocial well-being through the lens of health equity.
Program Structure
The program includes:
- Curriculum Overview
- Didactic Education
- Clinical Curriculum
- Experiential Learning Facilities
- Living in Atlanta
- PA Board Review Course
- Post Graduate Residency
- Didactic Education
Emory Farmworker Project
Through the Emory Farmworker Project, our PA faculty and trainees provide free on-site health care to more than 2,000 farmworkers and their families. These community members lack access to even basic medical care, and our volunteers gain experience in providing culturally sensitive, compassionate care for a wide range of health concerns to the people who need it most.
News and Events
The Emory School of Medicine Physician Assistant Program celebrated the graduation of its Class of 2024. The ceremony saw 52 graduates receive their Master of Medical Science degrees and embark on their journeys as physician assistants. Emory School of Medicine Dean Sandra Wong was the graduation speaker.
Program Rankings
Emory's Physician Assistant Program has a long, proud history of being one of the top-ranked programs in the country by U.S. News and World Report. The Emory PA Program has been ranked among the top 10 graduate-level PA Programs by US News and World Report since the first PA Program rankings were published.
Career Prospects
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 26.5% employment growth for physician assistants between 2022 and 2032. In that period, an estimated 39,300 jobs should open up. Overall metrics include work/life balance, job safety and stability, wage potential, and future prospects. According to U.S. News and World Report, Physician Assistant is ranked as the #2 Best Healthcare Job.