10 Best Physician Assistant PA Schools in Massachusetts | 2024

If you are looking for the best physician assistant schools in Massachusetts, then you are in the right place.

Massachusetts is one of the notable states in the U.S. in Massachusetts. The state has a population of around 6,859,819 and has been named the best in the country for education. 

We have what you’re looking for if you live in Massachusetts and want to become a physician assistant. In this post, we’ll outline some of Massachusetts’ top P.A. programs for you to consider enrolling in.

It’s fascinating to want to be a physician assistant. It’s a terrific notion to want to help those who are ill and likely unable to help themselves. But we can assure you the road you wish to take will be tough.

I can tell you the advantages of it are too great to cover in this post.

Therefore, if you live in Massachusetts, you will learn everything you need to know in this article about this career and how to navigate it.

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Are There Physician Assistant Schools In Massachusetts?

In all of Massachusetts, reputable institutions provide physician assistant programs. Here is a list of P.A. schools where you can study P.A. programs in Massachusetts if you live in Virginia and hope to enroll in P.A. school soon.

  • Bay Path University
  • Boston University
  • MGH Institute of Health Professions
  • MCPHS University
  • Northeastern University
  • Springfield College
  • Tufts University
  • Westfield State University
  • Assumption University
  • Pace University
  • Touro College
  • University of Nebraska – Medical Center
  • University of Texas – Rio Grande Valley
  • University of Wisconsin – Madison

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How Do I Get Into PA Schools In Massachusetts?

The following requirements must be met for you to be considered for admission to any of the Massachusetts PA schools.

  • Obtaining a high school diploma and a solid background in the sciences, such as biology, chemistry, physics, English, etc., is the first step to becoming a medical assistant.
  • Completing a bachelor’s degree from an authorized college or university is a requirement for almost all U.S. institutions. One of the requirements for enrollment in an accredited P.A. program is this degree requirement.
  • After completing your undergraduate education, you must earn a master’s degree in a medically relevant field. It might be covered in any of these or other courses in pathology, physiology, human anatomy, clinical medicine, and pharmacology.
  • Before allowing you to enroll in their P.A. master’s program, some schools ask for your GRE and GPA, while others don’t care.
  • You’ll also need to finish a healthcare program and obtain a license to pursue a physician assistant career.
  • You must pass the PANCE to become certified as a physician assistant after completing a P.A. program, and you must then apply for state licensing to start practicing.

How Long Are PA Schools In Massachusetts?

The training required to become a certified physician assistant is about eight years. The eight years are spent acquiring the numerous abilities needed to become a P.A. in complete.

One must complete a bachelor’s degree, which usually takes four years. This implies that you must have also graduated from high school with respectable grades.

The bachelor’s degree you must have could be in any course, provided it is related to the medical profession.

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Can Physician Assistants Practice Independently In Massachusetts?

To relieve pressure on the state’s healthcare system, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health on January 14 issued several emergency orders, including permitting qualified physician assistants to practice independently.

Allowing P.A.s to practice without physician supervision is one of the emergency orders issued to address the staff shortage, provided that they are “employed within a provider setting where P.A.s work together with physicians to provide patient care, and the P.A. is qualified and practicing within their scope of practice, experience, and training.

What are the Best Physician Assistant Schools In Massachusetts?

#1 Bay Path University

One of the best P.A. schools in Massachusetts is Bay Path University.

The physician assistant program at Bay Path University is one of the Massachusetts PA programs that U.S. News has identified as producing outstanding academics for this esteemed future position.

A rigorous, expedited degree program, Bay Path University’s M.S. in Physician Assistant Studies blends classroom and laboratory study on campus with off-campus clinical experience.

Students acquire the know-how and abilities required for assessing, following, diagnosing, treating, and counseling patients at all stages of their lives. You’ll be qualified to work in primary care, surgery, emergency medicine, and medical and surgical subspecialties with the help of your degree.

The physician assistant program at Bay Path University School has earned ARC-PA accreditation.

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#2 Boston University

Another on the list of Massachusetts’ top P.A. schools is Boston University.

The Boston University School of Medicine Physician Assistant Program’s goal is to educate physician assistants in cutting-edge techniques so they may give excellent care to a wide range of patients, particularly those in at-risk populations.

The curriculum aims to equip students to provide medical treatment for patients in underserved and at-risk populations. Additionally, it prepares students to practice medicine as moral members of a multidisciplinary, patient-centered healthcare team.

The physician assistant program at Boston University has earned ARC-PA accreditation.

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#3 MGH Institute of Health Professions

You should consider attending this Massachusetts-based recognized P.A. school for your P.A. education.

The school aims to allow students to acquire the knowledge, abilities, and attitudes required to work as primary care physician assistants, meeting the medical requirements of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the general public.

The ARC-PA has approved the MGH Physician Assistant Program.

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#4 MCPHS University

One of Massachusetts’ top P.A. programs is at MCPHS University.

The Physician Assistant Department at MCPHS University is dedicated to producing outstanding Physician Assistants who will combine professionalism and empathy with improving the health of the M.A. community.

The ARC-PA has approved the MGH Physician Assistant Program.

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#5 Northeastern University

Another institution on the list of top P.A. programs in Massachusetts is Northeastern University.

Mary Baldwin University’s MSPA program aims to intellectually and clinically prepare students for P.A. practice as caring, competent clinicians who can work in various medical specialty areas and settings in partnership with certified doctors.

Some areas of specialization include women’s health, internal medicine, psychiatry, pediatrics, emergency medicine, and surgery.

The ARC-PA has approved the MGH Physician Assistant Program.

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#6 Springfield College

Springfield College is one of the most outstanding P.A. colleges in Massachusetts and home to one of the best P.A. programs.

The physician assistant (PA) program at Springfield College is famous for combining rigorous academics with practical practice. 

The course prepares students to work as primary care physician assistants in various medical settings and specializations.

The ARC-PA has granted the Physician Assistant Program accreditation.

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#7 Tufts University

The Physician Assistant (P.A.) Tufts University School of Medicine program will prepare you to work as a P.A. in various clinical settings. 

The profession is attractive and exciting for students who are driven to make a difference by pursuing a career in clinical medicine because job growth for physician assistants is predicted to increase by approximately 40% over the next 10 years.

The program also emphasizes disease prevention and health promotion for the community and the individual patient.

The Commission on Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant has accredited the program.

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#8 Westfield State University

The physician assistant program at Westfield State University strives for excellence in training a diverse student body of caring, culturally sensitive healthcare professionals ready to work as part of a patient-centered team and ensure care for all residents of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and beyond.

The Physician Assistant Program at Westfield State University upholds the same values of the university, which include treating everyone in our community with respect and decency.

We foster community by welcoming, encouraging everyone’s personal growth, and valuing other viewpoints.

Maintaining honesty and excellence in whatever we do.

They encourage citizen participation in regional, national, and international activities.

We are collaborating and transparently making decisions.

Also, they offer public higher education at a reasonable price.

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#9 Assumption University

The Assumption University Physician Assistant Program aspires to enlist and educate highly educated and motivated students attempting to demonstrate the most acceptable possible medical practice in a collaborative setting.

 The curriculum aims to give its graduates the essential knowledge required to practice high-quality medicine while showing compassion to various patients. 

The Assumption PA program exemplifies Catholic social teaching that, as stated by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, “human life is sacred and the dignity of the human person is the foundation of a moral vision for society,” by placing a strong emphasis on compassion, empathy, and treating the whole person.

Graduates of the Assumption University PA Program are prepared to treat patients by the standards of Catholic healthcare ethics while also being competent, caring, and ethical.

The Assumption University PA Program will be known for its commitment to service, outstanding clinical abilities, academic brilliance, and moral leadership traits. 

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#10 Pace University

Completing a master’s degree in physician assistant studies produces skilled healthcare workers who can work in various medical professions, including family medicine, emergency medicine, pharmaceuticals, general practice, and more.

You can complete the program flexibly that fits your schedule and build on your professional experience while earning your terminal degree. 

After completing integrated interprofessional training experiences, you will be prepared to improve your career and deliver patient-centered care.

Graduates work as specialized physician assistants in various institutions, including universities, hospitals, nursing homes, and private care facilities.

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#11 Touro College

This program is designed for bachelor of science in physician assistant graduates who want to keep working while advancing their academic qualifications and who match our entry standards.

Our program is adaptable and reasonably priced with our well-known high standards for education and knowledgeable instructors. You’ll graduate with a Master of Science in your hands.

The course is taught using a guided individual study method, and Canvas is used to provide the content. You may fit the courses into your schedule and study at your own pace. If you have questions, faculty can be contacted by phone Monday through Thursday from 9 am to 5 pm or by email at any time.

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What Are The Easiest Massachusetts PA Schools To Get Into? 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of physician assistants (PA) is anticipated to increase by 37% over the following ten (10) years (BLS). Physician assistants (PA), one of the medical professions with the fastest projected growth, will be the outcome.

Choosing only tens or hundreds of applicants from a pool of thousands has a detrimental effect on the admission rates of most universities.

This is due to the rise of applicants seeking jobs as P.A. assistants. To aid in selecting the most acceptable applicants, most colleges also significantly tighten their GPA requirements. There will be a heated competition.

Here are some of the most accessible P.A. schools in Massachusetts

  • Westfield State University
  • Assumption University

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How Much Does A Physician Assistant Make In Massachusetts?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the median annual salary for physician assistants in 2020 was $115,390.

 The top 10 percent of earners in this industry made more than $162,470 annually, while the bottom 10 percent made less than $76,700. According to the BLS, physician assistant employment is expected to increase by 31% between 2020 and 2030, which is substantially faster than the average for all occupations. 

The median yearly wage for physician assistants employed in certain sectors of the economy is depicted in the graph below. Additionally, it projects job growth between 2020 and 2030.

What are the Best Physician Assistant Programs In Massachusetts?

You have eight options if you want to attend a P.A. school in Massachusetts, graduating from a reputable program, and receive the most significant medical assistant degree available on campus.

As a result, options are somewhat constrained. However, those seeking more opportunities may want to think about authorized online programs that can be finished while a state resident.

The top P.A. schools and P.A. programs are as follows:

  • Bay Path University
  • Boston University
  • MGH Institute of Health Professions
  • MCPHS University
  • Northeastern University
  • Springfield College
  • Tufts University
  • Westfield State University

What are the P.A. Schools In Massachusetts That Don’t Require Gre?  

The GRE has been the bane of most students hoping to become physician assistants. This is due to how challenging the exam is.

There are roughly 5 P.A. schools in Massachusetts that don’t need you to write or present the GRE if you want to work as a physician assistant but don’t want to take the GRE.

Here are the schools that don’t require a GRE if you don’t want to take one before applying to P.A. programs.

  • MCPHS University
  • Northeastern University
  • Springfield College
  • Tufts University
  • Bay Path University
  • Assumption University

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Are there Physician Assistant Master’s Programs In Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, graduate schools for physician assistants with master’s degrees emphasize patient, primary, and special care in medical and surgical settings. 

Although they work under the direction of doctors, physician assistants receive training that prepares them for a variety of roles, including conducting physical examinations, diagnosing and treating illnesses, ordering and interpreting tests, advising on preventative care, assisting in surgery, and, in the majority of states, writing prescriptions.

Here are the P.A. Schools that offer Masters’s Programs:

  • Bay Path University
  • Boston University
  • MGH Institute of Health Professions
  • MCPHS University
  • Northeastern University
  • Springfield College
  • Tufts University

Are there Online Physician Assistant Courses In Massachusetts For International Students? 

You might be able to finish your education wherever it is most convenient for you with online programs. 

The clinical portion may frequently be done close to you, but get in touch with any online programs you intend to apply to see what assistance they may provide you in choosing placement sites. 

One benefit of online courses is that you might not have to travel to class, which saves you time. If some of the material is given in a way that enables you to finish it on your schedule, some programs might offer additional freedom.

P.A. Schools that offer Online courses are:

  • Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
  • Pace University
  • Touro College
  • University of Nebraska – Medical Center
  • University of Texas – Rio Grande Valley
  • University of Wisconsin – Madison

You can also read Best Medical Schools in Chicago – A Complete Guide and How to Get in.

What are the Cheapest PA Schools In Massachusetts?

The following is a list of Massachusetts colleges and universities that are the cheapest. You can use this list to select the ideal school for you at a cost you can bear.

  • MCPHS University
  • Northeastern University
  • Springfield College
  • Tufts University
  • Bay Path University
  • Assumption University

What are the Accredited PA Programs In Massachusetts?

The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) is in charge of establishing requirements for P.A. education and assessing institutions to ensure they adhere to those requirements.

 The ARC-PA, which serves as the only accrediting body for physician assistant graduate programs in the United States, is committed to defending the general public’s rights and those of current and future P.A. students.

Here are lists of Accredited PA Schools in Massachusetts

  • Bay Path University
  • Boston University
  • MGH Institute of Health Professions
  • MCPHS University
  • Northeastern University
  • Springfield College
  • Tufts University

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How To Become A Physician Assistant In Massachusetts?

The state’s healthcare system relies heavily on physician assistants, who are present at both the beginning and end of life. 

According to recent statistics, a hospital or nursing home environment where a P.A. was present was where 70% of the state’s fatalities occurred. 

This detailed manual on how to become a physician assistant in Massachusetts is for those who are interested in improving the quality of life of others:

  • Learn about Massachusetts Physician Assistant Programs that are Accredited for Licensing
  • Obtain a National Certification
  • Submit a License Application to the State
  • Maintain your license.

Physician Assistant Certification Council of Massachusetts 

To keep their certification, physician assistants must complete 50 hours of category 1 CME every two years.

Also, to provide members with networking opportunities and professional updates, Mapa also organized a reception.

Lastly, to provide current Physician assistant students with educational opportunities and networking opportunities with students from other programs, Mapa also held a student track.

Also, Read on-21 Top Medical Schools in Canada – Complete Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is P.A. school in M.A.?

Physician Assistant Studies is an intensive, 24-month program that intends to educate a diverse student body of highly skilled and culturally aware healthcare providers who will utilize a patient-centered care approach and be committed to serving the public in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and beyond.

How do I become a P.A. in Massachusetts?

According to the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA), licensure in Massachusetts requires graduation from an accredited physician assistant program and passage of the PANCE exam. Current certification by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) is not required.

Does the University of Massachusetts have a P.A. program?

The mission of MCPHS PA Boston is to provide graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to participate in and lead interprofessional healthcare teams while providing quality and compassionate medical care to diverse patients across the lifespan.

Conclusion

Being a physician assistant is an extraordinarily rigorous yet rewarding professional path. You’ll have plenty of time to finish your training at school. It takes roughly six years without healthcare training, whereas it takes more than 9 years.

But is all the worry worth it? I believe it is worth every bit of difficulty and more! A salary of $117,126 on average is enormous and indicates that there will be further growth. You will also get to collaborate with experts in your chosen field.

References

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