Choosing the right educational institution is crucial when pursuing a career as a physician assistant.
Florida offers a variety of programs, each with unique offerings that cater to your educational and professional goals. Understanding what makes the best PA schools in Florida can help you make an informed decision about your future.
These programs provide essential training that prepares you for a rewarding career in healthcare.
By exploring key factors such as curriculum quality, faculty experience, and clinical opportunities, you can identify which schools align with your aspirations.
1) University of Florida School of Physician Assistant Studies
The University of Florida School of Physician Assistant Studies offers a rigorous 24-month program designed for aspiring physician assistants.
The program begins each year in late June, ensuring a consistent and structured educational path.
This program only accepts 60 new students annually.
It prepares you with a broad range of medical and surgical knowledge.
It emphasizes high-quality and compassionate patient care, aligning with modern healthcare demands.
The school boasts a low attrition rate of 4.2%, one of the lowest in the country.
This success reflects the program’s dedication to maintaining student satisfaction and academic achievement.
You can find more detailed information regarding admissions, curriculum, and financial aid on their official website.
The University of Florida has produced over 2,500 PA graduates, showcasing its strong legacy in the field.
For rankings, the university consistently positions itself among the top PA programs in Florida, making it a highly regarded choice for students.
If you’re looking for comprehensive training and a supportive environment, this school deserves serious consideration.
2) Nova Southeastern University PA Program
Nova Southeastern University offers a comprehensive Physician Assistant (PA) program designed to prepare you for a successful career in healthcare.
The program is located at the Fort Lauderdale campus, providing access to advanced medical facilities and resources.
You can choose from traditional or dual admission tracks.
The dual admission path allows you to earn both a bachelor’s degree and a Master of Medical Science in about six years and three months.
This accelerated track is ideal for those committed to the field early in their education.
The program emphasizes experiential learning through clinical rotations in various medical settings.
You will gain hands-on experience that enhances your skills and prepares you for real-world challenges.
Graduates can expect a promising job market.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 31% job growth for Physician Assistants through 2028.
This rate is much faster than average compared to other occupations.
The earning potential is significant, with a median income of approximately $112,260 per year.
You will have access to networking opportunities and resources that can help you succeed in your career.
For more detailed information about the program and admissions, you can visit the Nova Southeastern University PA Program.
3) Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine PA Program
The PA program at Florida International University (FIU) prepares you for a successful career in healthcare.
The curriculum emphasizes primary care, enabling you to become a skilled physician assistant.
You will benefit from a robust hands-on clinical training experience.
The program boasts a high first-time pass rate on the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE), with the Class of 2023 achieving a rate of 96%, surpassing the national average of 92%.
Admissions are competitive, with only 45 seats available per class.
You will need a baccalaureate degree and a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Additionally, the program requires GRE scores for the 2024-2025 application cycle and three letters of recommendation.
FIU places a strong focus on a diverse and collaborative learning environment.
You will engage with interprofessional teams, preparing you for real-world healthcare settings.
To learn more about the application requirements, visit the FIU Admissions page.
4) Barry University PA Program
The Barry University Physician Assistant Program is designed to prepare you for a successful career in healthcare.
This program is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, Inc. (ARC-PA).
You will benefit from a curriculum that emphasizes evidence-based medicine and hands-on learning.
The program integrates didactic courses with clinical experiences to enhance your education.
Barry University received significant funding to expand its program.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services awarded $1.5 million in grants to address primary health care shortages, particularly in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
To apply, you’ll need to meet specific requirements, including completing a medical terminology course before matriculation.
This ensures you have the essential knowledge needed for your studies.
For more details on admission requirements and program specifics, visit Barry University’s official website.
5) Keiser University Master of Science in Physician Assistant
Keiser University offers a Master of Science in Physician Assistant program designed to prepare you for a successful career in healthcare.
This program emphasizes both clinical skills and comprehensive medical knowledge.
You will benefit from a low student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention throughout your studies.
The faculty comprises experienced professionals who bring real-world expertise to the classroom.
The curriculum includes hands-on training in various clinical settings.
You will gain experience in specialties such as emergency medicine, pediatrics, and surgery, enhancing your skills and confidence.
Keiser University also provides flexible scheduling options, accommodating both full-time and part-time students.
This allows you to balance your educational commitments with personal or professional responsibilities.
Graduates of this program have consistently high pass rates on the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE).
This reflects the quality of education and preparation you will receive.
For more details about the program and admission requirements, you can visit the official Keiser University website.
6) Miami Dade College PA Program
The Miami Dade College (MDC) PA Program offers comprehensive education and training to prepare you for a career in healthcare.
It is a 27-month program that focuses on primary care and serves diverse communities.
You will engage in coursework covering essential medical subjects such as Anatomy & Physiology, Pathophysiology, Clinical Medicine, and Pharmacology.
These foundational courses are designed to equip you with the clinical knowledge necessary for effective patient care.
MDC emphasizes real-world experience through clinical rotations, allowing you to work directly with patients in various healthcare settings.
This practical training is crucial for developing your skills as a Physician Assistant.
The program maintains a commitment to serving medically underserved communities.
It aims to promote health equity within both urban and rural areas, which can be a significant aspect of your career.
You can learn more about application deadlines and requirements on the Miami Dade College PA Program website.
Consider this program if you are looking for a robust educational pathway to becoming a skilled Physician Assistant.
AdventHealth University PA Program
The AdventHealth University Physician Assistant Program offers a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MSPAS).
This program is designed to prepare you for a career as a licensed medical clinician.
The curriculum includes 27 months of intensive study, integrating didactic lectures with hands-on experiential learning.
You will gain valuable clinical skills necessary for direct patient care.
AdventHealth University emphasizes diversity in its student body.
The program encourages applications from individuals of various socioeconomic, racial, ethnic, and religious backgrounds.
The program has received Accreditation-Continued status from the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA).
This reflects the program’s compliance with established educational standards.
With a focus on real-world application, you will have opportunities to participate in simulation and clinical practice.
This approach aims to enhance your evidence-based patient care capabilities.
For more details about the program and admissions criteria, you can visit the AdventHealth University Physician Assistant Studies page.
Florida Gulf Coast University PA Program
The Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) PA program offers a comprehensive education designed to prepare you for a successful career as a physician assistant.
The curriculum includes 15 months of intensive instruction in areas such as physiology, pharmacology, and clinical medicine.
You will gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations, allowing you to apply what you’ve learned in real-world settings.
The program emphasizes evidence-based patient-centered care within a collaborative healthcare team.
FGCU’s Master of Physician Assistant Studies program is known for its supportive environment.
Faculty members are dedicated to your success and are available to provide guidance throughout your studies.
Additionally, the program also ensures that you are well-prepared for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE).
Graduates from FGCU have demonstrated strong performance on this critical assessment.
For more details about the program, visit the official FGCU Physician Assistant Studies page.
Consider this program if you are looking for an enriching educational experience in Florida.
9) Gannon University PA Program at Ruskin
Gannon University offers a well-regarded PA program located in Ruskin, Florida.
This program is designed to equip you with the skills needed for a successful career in the healthcare field.
The curriculum focuses on a blend of classroom education and clinical experience.
You will find opportunities to engage in hands-on learning in various healthcare settings.
Graduates from this program have impressive outcomes.
The five-year first-time pass rate for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination consistently exceeds the national average.
Job placement rates are high, with a 100% placement for the Class of 2021 within a year after graduation.
This demonstrates the strength of the program and its alignment with workforce needs.
To learn more about this program, you can visit the Gannon University PA Program page.
You will find detailed information about admissions, curriculum, and faculty.
10) Florida State University PA Program
The Florida State University (FSU) PA Program is known for its strong curriculum and supportive learning environment.
It was established in 2017 and offers a comprehensive education that prepares you for a career in healthcare.
The program has received recognition for its value.
In 2021, Best Value Schools ranked it as Florida’s top PA school.
This highlights the commitment to providing quality education at an accessible cost.
FSU’s PA program is fully accredited, with its Accreditation-Probation status extended until September 2024.
This ensures that you receive education that meets high standards of excellence.
You will benefit from a diverse curriculum that includes clinical rotations, allowing hands-on experience in various healthcare settings.
The program admits 60 students annually, aiming to foster personalized attention.
In addition, FSU participates in the Centralized Application System for Physician Assistants (CASPA), streamlining the application process.
This makes it easier for you to apply and join the program.
For more information on admissions and program details, visit the Florida State University PA Program page.
Accreditation and Program Requirements
The Florida State University PA Program is fully accredited.
Understanding accreditation and typical admission requirements can help you make informed decisions about your PA education.
Understanding Accreditation Standards
Accreditation for physician assistant programs is typically granted by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA).
Programs must demonstrate that they adhere to established educational standards and continuously improve.
In Florida, leading PA programs must maintain their accreditation to ensure eligibility for federal financial aid and state licensure.
Graduates from accredited programs are more competitive in the job market.
Common Admission Requirements
Admission requirements can vary significantly between programs but generally include the following:
- Bachelor’s Degree: You must earn a degree from an accredited institution.
- Healthcare Experience: Most programs require direct patient care experience, often ranging from 500 to 1,000 hours.
- GRE Scores: Some schools may require the Graduate Record Examination scores.
- Letters of Recommendation: Typically, two to three professional references are needed.
Carefully review the specific requirements for each program, such as the Florida State University PA program, to ensure you meet their criteria.
This preparation will enhance your application and increase your chances of acceptance.
Clinical Training Opportunities
Clinical training is a crucial component of your education in physician assistant programs.
It equips you with the necessary skills and hands-on experience to excel in your future career.
Core Clinical Rotations
Core clinical rotations provide you with essential exposure to various medical disciplines.
Typically, these rotations last 4 to 8 weeks each and cover a range of specialties, including:
- Family Medicine
- Internal Medicine
- Pediatrics
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Surgery
- Emergency Medicine
During these rotations, you will work under the supervision of experienced healthcare professionals in real-world settings.
This practical experience enhances your clinical skills, critical thinking, and teamwork abilities, which are vital for your development as a physician assistant.
Programs such as the University of Florida emphasize strong clinical training with locations in major cities across Florida.
Specialized Training Options
Specialized training options allow you to focus on particular areas of interest within the medical field.
Many programs offer elective rotations in:
- Dermatology
- Cardiology
- Psychiatry
- Orthopedics
- Geriatrics
These electives not only broaden your skills but also improve your employability in specialized areas.
Programs like the one at the University of Tampa provide the flexibility to choose rotations that align with your career goals.
Engaging in specialized training helps you establish a niche in your practice, catering to specific patient needs and healthcare challenges.