Master's Degree in Physician Assistant Studies
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
The Physician Assistant Studies program is ideal for individuals passionate about delivering patient-centered care and making a meaningful impact in communities. Applicants should have a strong academic background in the sciences and a commitment to serving in primary care, especially in rural or underserved areas.
Program Overview
The University of Kentucky’s Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program offers a rigorous, student-centered education designed to prepare compassionate and highly skilled healthcare providers. Since 1975, the program has built a national reputation for academic excellence, primary care training, and a deep commitment to serving rural and underserved communities. With campuses in Lexington and Morehead, KY, the program provides unique opportunities for hands-on clinical learning, interprofessional education, and international rotations. At UK, students join a collaborative and supportive community where they are empowered to grow as clinicians and leaders in today’s evolving healthcare landscape.
Students gain a strong foundation in medical science, patient care, and professional practice. Graduates are well-prepared to sit for the national certification exam (PANCE) and enter a fast-growing field with opportunities in primary care, emergency medicine, surgery, and specialty areas.
Our Accreditation
The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, Inc. (ARC-PA) has granted Accreditation-Continued status to the University of Kentucky Physician Assistant Program sponsored by the University of Kentucky. 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remains in effect until the program closes or withdraws from the accreditation process or until accreditation is withdrawn for failure to comply with the Standards.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 2027 March. The review date is contingent upon continued compliance with the Accreditation Standards and ARC-PA policy.
To learn more about the UK PA Program, please visit https://chs.uky.edu/physician-assistant-studies.
Plan to Pursue Licensure Outside of Kentucky?
If you plan to obtain professional licensure outside of Kentucky, please refer to the Licensure page to confirm whether the program meets the educational requirements for professional licensure in your state of interest.
Program Specific Requirements
Generally, the UKPA program opens every April and closes on July 15th for a Spring (January) start. Read more about admission and application requirements on the PA program website.
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What You'll Learn
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Explore Funding Options
As a graduate student, there are additional opportunities for student funding. Once you are admitted into a degree-bearing graduate program at UK, you can apply for a wide variety of financial assistance, including assistantships and fellowships. These opportunities can be tied to your program’s availability, so you should inquire with your program director about opportunities available within your program!
Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
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At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.
