Physician assistants, or PAs, are nationally certified and state-licensed healthcare professionals who provide direct patient care and work as part of a physician-led team in delivering a broad range of diagnostic, therapeutic, preventative, and health maintenance services. They work in diverse medical and surgical specialties, including family and internal medicine, emergency care, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, general surgery and sub-surgical specialties, and mental and behavioral health care. PAs work in a wide variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and physicians’ offices. For more information about the profession, visit the American Academy of PAs.

Established in 2016, the Physician Assistant Program at UE is a seven-semester graduate program. Students receive a blend of classroom lecture and hands-on learning from faculty members who provide a wealth of knowledge as medical professionals and educators. During the final 3 semesters, students complete 12 months of supervised clinical experiences in a variety of medical specialties. After the program, graduates will sit for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) to gain licensure.