What is a Physician Assistant?

A Physician Assistant (PA) practices medicine with the supervision of a licensed physician or osteopath, and will carry out many of the tasks traditionally performed only by physicians. These tasks include taking patient histories, performing physical examinations, ordering and interpreting laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies, providing patient education, and developing patient treatment plans. PAs most often choose to work in primary care settings, i.e. family practice, internal medicine, rural health clinics, etc., but also may choose to work in specialty areas like emergency room or surgery.

What credential does a Physician Assistant receive? (SEE OUR NATIONAL EXAM RESULTS)
After graduation from an ARC-PA (Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant) accredited PA Program (the Tri-C Program is ARC-PA accredited), the graduate is eligible to sit for the NCCPA Examination (National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants). After passing this examination, the individual is awarded national certification and can write PA-C after their name. This is a national credential recognized in every state.Physician Assistants must take a recertification exam every 6 years.

What is the typical salary for a Physician Assistant?
According to data reported by the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA), based upon national statistics the median income for physician assistants in full-time clinical practice is about $89,987. Income varies by specialty, practice setting, geographical location, and years of experience.

What do I need in order to get into the PA program?
Please see the Pre-requisite Information in the Program Application Section.

When can I submit my application?
Please also refer to the Program Application Section.

Application Deadlines
 

Please indicate on your CASPA application the year for which you are applying. All requirements and prerequisites remain the same and MUST be applicable to the application cycle to which you are applying. Early application does not guarantee an interview or give the application an advantage. All applications will be considered as if they arrived at the same time.

How long is the program? Can I complete the program on a part-time basis?
The program is 7 semesters (27 months). Program courses (PA numbered courses) are not offered on a part time basis.

Is the program offered in the evenings or weekends? Can I work while attending the program?
The program is not offered in the evenings or weekends. Students enrolled in the program are strongly cautioned regarding accepting outside employment. The intensity and continuity of the program is such that employment most likely will detract from course responsibilities and negatively impact the chance for successful program completion.

I already have credits. Can I complete the program in less time?
No, you cannot complete the program in less than 7 semesters.

How many students do you accept each year?
Up to fifty-two students are accepted each year in the program Currently we accept about 35.

What is the approximate cost of the program?
The tuition and fee rates of the Physician Assistant Program are announced prior to the start of each academic year and are subject to change without notice. The tuition for the 27-month PA program is estimated at $30,000. In addition, students can expect expenses associated with textbooks, food and lodging. Students are also required to purchase their own laptop computer, laboratory coats, and portable diagnostic equipment set. Students should anticipate expenses related to housing and transportation during the clinical year. The program reserves the right to change tuition and fees, as determined by the Cuyahoga Community College Board of Trustees, without prior notice. 

Click here to view the estimated program cost information sheet.

Is financial aid available?
Generally, yes. Students may qualify for the usual federal or state programs. For more information, contact the Cleveland State University Financial Aid Department at 216-687-5411.

Can I transfer credits from another college or university?
Generally, yes. Students are strongly encouraged to schedule an appointment with an academic counselor after they have applied to the college and their transcripts have been forwarded to the College Admissions & Records Dept., where the transcripts are evaluated for course transfer. Please visit Tri-C's transfer center for more information. Also visit the program main home page to download information regarding transcript evaluation. 

How can I Apply?
Contact CASPA as outlined in the Application Process.