Sam SmithChoosing the right Physician Assistant (PA) program is a pivotal step in your healthcare career. Unlike some fields, PA education is highly standardized: all accredited programs must meet rigorous requirements set by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC‑PA), and every graduate sits for the same PANCE board exam. While rankings can be subjective and often based on reputation surveys, certain programs stand out for their history, clinical networks, faculty strength, and consistent outcomes. This guide highlights approximately 50 programs frequently cited for excellence, grouped into tiers to help you navigate your options.
Top 50 Physician Assisted Schools In The US
1. Duke University
Duke University launched the very first PA program in 1965, establishing the profession itself. Its curriculum emphasizes leadership, innovation, and evidence-based practice. Students benefit from strong clinical rotations across Duke Health and affiliated hospitals, gaining exposure to diverse specialties. The program’s reputation for excellence, research integration, and high PANCE pass rates makes it a benchmark in PA education. Graduates are recognized nationally for their clinical competence, adaptability, and contributions to advancing the PA profession.
2. University of Iowa (Carver College of Medicine)
The University of Iowa’s PA program is housed within the Carver College of Medicine, offering students access to a robust academic and clinical environment. Known for its strong emphasis on primary care and rural health, the program prepares graduates to serve diverse communities. Students benefit from Iowa’s extensive clinical network and interdisciplinary collaboration. With consistently high PANCE pass rates and a reputation for producing skilled clinicians, Iowa remains a respected leader in PA education.
3. Baylor College of Medicine
Baylor College of Medicine’s PA program is nationally recognized for its rigorous academics and strong clinical training. Located in Houston’s Texas Medical Center, students gain unparalleled exposure to advanced medical facilities and diverse patient populations. The program emphasizes leadership, research, and service, preparing graduates for careers in both clinical practice and academia. Baylor’s reputation for excellence and innovation ensures its graduates are highly sought after, making it one of the premier PA programs in the country.
4. George Washington University
George Washington University’s PA program, located in Washington, D.C., offers students access to world-class medical facilities and unique opportunities in public health and policy. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, evidence-based practice, and service to underserved populations. Students benefit from diverse clinical rotations and strong faculty mentorship. GW’s reputation for excellence, combined with its location near national health organizations, prepares graduates for impactful careers in clinical practice, research, and healthcare leadership. It remains a top choice for aspiring PAs.
5. University of Utah
The University of Utah’s PA program is known for its strong clinical training and emphasis on serving rural and underserved populations. Students gain hands-on experience through rotations across Utah and surrounding states, preparing them for diverse practice settings. The program emphasizes leadership, innovation, and community service. With consistently high PANCE pass rates and a supportive learning environment, Utah produces graduates who are well-prepared for clinical practice and healthcare leadership, making it a respected program nationwide.
6. Emory University
Emory University’s PA program, located in Atlanta, is renowned for its strong clinical training and emphasis on primary care. Students benefit from Emory’s extensive healthcare network, gaining exposure to diverse patient populations and specialties. The program emphasizes leadership, service, and evidence-based practice. With a reputation for excellence and consistently high PANCE pass rates, Emory prepares graduates for impactful careers in clinical practice, research, and healthcare leadership. Its commitment to community service makes it a respected choice for aspiring PAs.
7. University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
UT Southwestern’s PA program is located within one of the nation’s leading academic medical centers in Dallas. Students benefit from access to advanced medical facilities, diverse patient populations, and renowned faculty. The program emphasizes clinical excellence, research, and leadership, preparing graduates for careers in a variety of specialties. With strong PANCE pass rates and a reputation for producing highly skilled clinicians, UT Southwestern remains a top choice for students seeking rigorous training and broad career opportunities.
8. University of Colorado (Child Health Associate/PA Program)
The University of Colorado’s Child Health Associate/PA Program is unique in its emphasis on pediatrics and primary care. Students gain extensive clinical experience through rotations across Colorado and beyond, serving diverse populations. The program emphasizes leadership, service, and evidence-based practice. With a reputation for innovation and excellence, Colorado prepares graduates for impactful careers in clinical practice and healthcare leadership. Its focus on child health makes it a distinctive and respected program in PA education.
9. University of Washington – MEDEX Northwest
MEDEX Northwest at the University of Washington is one of the oldest and most respected PA programs in the country. Founded to address primary care shortages, it emphasizes service to rural and underserved communities. Students benefit from diverse clinical rotations across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. The program emphasizes leadership, community service, and evidence-based practice. With a strong reputation and consistently high PANCE pass rates, MEDEX prepares graduates for impactful careers in clinical practice and healthcare leadership.
10. University of Nebraska Medical Center
The University of Nebraska Medical Center’s PA program is known for its strong clinical training and emphasis on serving rural and underserved populations. Students gain hands-on experience through rotations across Nebraska and surrounding states, preparing them for diverse practice settings. The program emphasizes leadership, service, and evidence-based practice. With consistently high PANCE pass rates and a supportive learning environment, Nebraska produces graduates who are well-prepared for clinical practice and healthcare leadership, making it a respected program nationwide.
Top 50 Physician Assistant Programs (Ranked List)
| # | Physician Assistant Program |
|---|---|
| 1 | Duke University |
| 2 | University of Iowa |
| 3 | Baylor College of Medicine |
| 4 | George Washington University |
| 5 | University of Utah |
| 6 | Emory University |
| 7 | University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center |
| 8 | University of Colorado (Child Health Associate/PA Program) |
| 9 | University of Washington – MEDEX Northwest |
| 10 | University of Nebraska Medical Center |
| 11 | Oregon Health & Science University |
| 12 | University of California – Davis |
| 13 | Yale University |
| 14 | University of Florida |
| 15 | University of Michigan |
| 16 | University of Pittsburgh |
| 17 | Wake Forest University |
| 18 | Rutgers University |
| 19 | University of Kentucky |
| 20 | Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) |
| 21 | Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Science |
| 22 | Marquette University |
| 23 | University of Alabama at Birmingham |
| 24 | University of South Alabama |
| 25 | Cornell University (Weill Cornell Medicine) |
| 26 | University of Texas Medical Branch – Galveston |
| 27 | University of Wisconsin – Madison |
| 28 | University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill |
| 29 | Stony Brook University |
| 30 | MGH Institute of Health Professions |
| 31 | University of California – Los Angeles (UCLA) |
| 32 | University of Southern California (USC) |
| 33 | University of Rochester |
| 34 | Quinnipiac University |
| 35 | Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences |
| 36 | Thomas Jefferson University |
| 37 | Touro University – California |
| 38 | Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science |
| 39 | University of New England |
| 40 | Rocky Vista University |
| 41 | Pacific University (Oregon) |
| 42 | Missouri State University |
| 43 | Samuel Merritt University |
| 44 | Butler University |
| 45 | South University (Savannah/Tampa) |
| 46 | Lock Haven University |
| 47 | University of Detroit Mercy |
| 48 | Shenandoah University |
| 49 | University of Bridgeport |
| 50 | University of New Mexico |
Closing
Ultimately, the “top” PA program is not defined by a ranking number but by how well it aligns with your personal and professional goals. Accreditation, PANCE pass rates, clinical rotation quality, program mission, and affordability are far more important than prestige alone. Use this list as a starting point, but dive deeper into each program’s curriculum, faculty, and culture. Visit campuses, talk to current students, and compare outcomes. With over 300 accredited programs nationwide, the best choice is the one that prepares you to thrive as a compassionate, skilled, and adaptable Physician Assistant. Good luck on your journey!