Top 15 PA School Programs in the U.S. Ranked (Updated)

If you’re aiming to become a physician assistant, choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. PA school rankings can help you identify high-quality programs with strong clinical networks, board exam pass rates, and long-standing reputations. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top 15 PA schools in the U.S. for 2025, starting in reverse—from #15 to #1—so you can discover the rising stars and industry leaders that deserve your attention.

All rankings are based on the U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Schools list for Physician Assistant programs.

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#15 – Quinnipiac University (Hamden, Connecticut)

Quinnipiac’s PA program is one of the most respected in New England. Students earn a Master of Health Science (MHS) and benefit from a 98%+ pass rate on the PANCE (Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam). The curriculum integrates clinical rotations, small-group case-based learning, and hands-on experience in underserved communities.

Why it stands out: Exceptional licensure pass rates and strong student mentorship.

#14 – University of Washington (Seattle, Washington)

With a focus on primary care and rural health, UW’s MEDEX Northwest program is one of the oldest in the country. The university’s long-standing commitment to serving the Pacific Northwest makes it ideal for students seeking meaningful, community-oriented care experiences.

Why it stands out: National leader in training PAs for medically underserved and rural populations.

#13 – University of Southern California (Alhambra, California)

USC’s PA program, based at the Keck School of Medicine, prepares students through advanced coursework in primary care and specialty medicine. Students benefit from the university’s vast health system and strong alumni network across California.

Why it stands out: Deep clinical exposure in one of the country’s most diverse urban healthcare systems.

#12 – Oregon Health & Science University (Portland, Oregon)

OHSU trains PAs with an emphasis on integrated, team-based care. With a curriculum focused on health equity, social determinants of health, and interprofessional collaboration, this 26-month program prepares graduates to lead in complex healthcare environments.

Why it stands out: Consistent top rankings in primary care and rural medicine.

#11 – Interservice Physician Assistant Program (Fort Sam Houston, Texas)

A unique program for active-duty military and reservists, IPAP is managed through the U.S. Army Medical Department and affiliated with the University of Nebraska Medical Center. This highly rigorous program prepares PAs to practice in both civilian and military healthcare settings.

Why it stands out: Comprehensive military medical training with a global service mission.

#10 – Drexel University (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)

Drexel’s Master of Health Science (MHS) PA program is known for its urban healthcare focus and service-learning experiences. Students complete over 2,000 hours of clinical training and take part in community-based outreach projects.

Why it stands out: Diversity, hands-on learning, and urban healthcare experience.

#9 – Wake Forest University (Winston-Salem, North Carolina)

Wake Forest’s 24-month Master of Medical Science (MMS) PA program is built around problem-based learning (PBL) and small group instruction. Students graduate with well-honed clinical reasoning and patient-centered care skills.

Why it stands out: Pioneering use of problem-based learning and team-focused clinical training.

#8 – University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (Dallas, Texas)

UT Southwestern offers a 30-month PA program ranked among the most rigorous and clinically rich. Located within one of the largest academic medical centers in Texas, it provides access to specialty rotations across multiple hospitals.

Why it stands out: Strong hospital network and Texas’s premier research infrastructure.

#7 – University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus (Aurora, Colorado)

Colorado’s CHA/PA program (Child Health Associate/Physician Assistant) is one of few that confers a PA degree with pediatric specialization. Its comprehensive 3-year curriculum spans a wide range of specialties beyond pediatrics.

Why it stands out: Pediatric focus with the flexibility to work in general medicine or specialties.

#6 – George Washington University (Washington, D.C.)

Students at GWU can pursue a dual PA/MPH degree, combining public health knowledge with clinical expertise. The program emphasizes health policy, global health, and leadership development, ideal for students interested in systems-level change.

Why it stands out: Unique dual-degree option and location in the heart of U.S. healthcare policy.

#5 – Emory University (Atlanta, Georgia)

Emory offers two distinct PA tracks—standalone or dual-degree with a Master of Public Health (MPH). The curriculum emphasizes community medicine, team-based care, and leadership training. Graduates are highly sought-after across the southeastern U.S.

Why it stands out: Blends public health training with clinical excellence.

#4 – University of Utah (Salt Lake City, Utah)

The Utah Physician Assistant Program (UPAP) is one of the oldest and most respected PA programs in the U.S. It trains students using the MEDEX model, with rotations emphasizing rural and underserved community care.

Why it stands out: Strong rural health emphasis and a reputation for compassionate, community-based care.

#3 – Baylor College of Medicine (Houston, Texas)

Baylor’s 13-month intensive didactic phase followed by extensive clinical training makes it one of the shortest yet most efficient programs. Students can choose enrichment tracks in global health, medical ethics, or tropical medicine.

Why it stands out: Compact yet high-impact curriculum with enrichment opportunities.

#2 – University of Iowa (Iowa City, Iowa)

The Carver College of Medicine at the University of Iowa has led PA education since the early 1970s. With a 28-month curriculum and a strong focus on interprofessional education, the program excels in producing well-rounded healthcare providers.

Why it stands out: Academic rigor with a proven track record in patient-centered care and rural health service.

#1 – Duke University (Durham, North Carolina)

Duke is where the PA profession was born, and today it continues to set the gold standard in PA education. The Master of Health Sciences program features 109 credit hours, blending science, leadership, and ethics with extensive clinical practice.

Why it stands out: Legacy, leadership, and consistently top-tier outcomes for graduates.

Ready to Stand Out Before PA School?

If you’re planning to apply to one of these competitive programs, gaining clinical experience is key. At Go Elective, we help aspiring PAs build their experience through affordable, immersive pre-PA and PA internships in Kenya and Tanzania. You’ll work alongside healthcare professionals in some of East Africa’s busiest teaching hospitals, earn direct patient care hours, and gain a global perspective that sets you apart in your applications.