Frequently asked questions

Is the PA Program at NAU accredited?

The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) has granted Accreditation – Continued status to the Northern Arizona University Physician Assistant Program sponsored by Northern Arizona University. 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remains in effect until the program closes or withdraws from the accreditation process or until accreditation is withdrawn for failure to comply with the Standards.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 September 2025. The review date is contingent upon continued compliance with the Accreditation Standards and ARC-PA policy.

Where is the program offered?

The program is housed at the new Phoenix Bioscience Campus in downtown Phoenix, between 5th and 7th Streets and Van Buren Street. This is also the location of the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix.

Is the program offered on the Flagstaff campus?

The program is not offered in Flagstaff.

Is the program offered with any part-time options?

No, the program is only offered on a full-time basis.

Is the program offered online?

No, the program is only offered on campus in downtown Phoenix. Live attendance is required. The program does not offer optional attendance to on campus coursework.

What degree is granted?

Upon successful completion of program requirements, graduates are awarded Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) degree and a certificate of completion.

What are the admission requirements for the program?

View the admission requirements.

Is the application process through CASPA?

Yes, the application process is through the CASPA system. In addition, there is an NAU Office of Graduate and Professional Studies application that must be completed and submitted by the September 1 deadline as well.

When and how can I apply, and when is the application due?

CASPA opens in April and closes September 1 of every year. The NAU Graduate application will be available during this time as well. All applications to CASPA must be “verified” by CASPA no later than October 1. Applicants are generally considered according to verification date.

Does applying earlier in the admissions cycle help or is it recommended?

Applying as early as possible is recommended for those who have completed all admission requirements. The admissions cycle runs from April through September 1 every year. Applicants are generally considered according to verification date. Applicants pending prerequisite coursework taken in the summer semester(s) during the admissions cycle will most likely be denied due to incomplete prerequisites. Applicants taking prerequisite coursework during the summer semester(s) should submit their applications closer to the September 1 deadline to allow for official grade posting and verification by CASPA; however, applicants with complete files will be considered first and prioritized.

What degree do I need to apply?

The program accepts any Bachelor’s degree, however, applicants with science degrees; i.e., biological sciences and chemistry, are preferable.

When will you make decisions about who is accepted into the program?

Some applicants will be informed of their admission status shortly after their interview, and others will be notified at the end of the interview process, which will likely occur sometime in December or January.

How many students apply and how many will be accepted into the program?

The NAU PA program receives nearly 2000 applications per year. The applicant pool is different every year. In addition, the pool has grown in number every year. Currently, only 60 seats are available for new students.

Will there be a wait list for the program?

Yes, in addition to the 60 individuals who will be selected for admission, other qualified applicants will be wait-listed (alternate status) in the event that positions in the class become available.

How do I make an appointment to meet with a program advisor?

Due to the volume of inquires we receive, we are not able to schedule individual appointments in most cases. However, we do address telephone and email inquiries as quickly as we can. We do not offer transcript review. Email inquiries are preferred. Our email address for inquiries is PAProg@nau.edu. Additionally, tours of the Health Sciences Education Building are conducted twice a month (see schedule). Time permitting, questions will be answered both during and after the tours.

When do prerequisite courses need to be completed?

All prerequisite courses must be completed, graded, and reported to CASPA at the time of application. The Bachelor’s degree does not need to be completed at the time of application; however, it must be completed by the time of matriculation (enrollment) into the PA program.

CASPA defines “other sciences” on their website. Does NAU honor those courses for the 12 credit “Additional Sciences” prerequisite requirement?

Yes. CASPA course subjects that contribute to the Science GPA are accepted as Additional Sciences for this requirement. Science courses intended for science majors and/or upper division courses are more competitive for admission purposes.

Is “Double-dipping” of prerequisites allowed?

“Double-dipping” is not allowed. Double-dipping is defined as using a prerequisite course to satisfy more than one prerequisite requirement.

The prerequisite courses listed require 3 semester credit hours of coursework. My school offers courses for 4 semester credit hours. Can I use the extra 1 semester credit hour from each prerequisite course toward the 12 additional science credits?

Yes and no. This is generally not allowed. Courses listed in the prerequisite sections can only be used once per section unless otherwise specified. If your course is a 4 semester credit course that combines the lecture and lab in the same credit, you cannot use the extra credit toward the 12 additional science credits. If your school requires a separate registration (separate 1 semester credit course) for a laboratory component, then you may use it for the 12 additional science credits.

How do I know if the statistics course I take will be acceptable?

Any introductory course in statistics will fulfill the requirement, and should include topics such as statistics terms, analytical statistics, measurement of the mean and variance, null hypothesis, p-values, confidence intervals, and probability.

Does the program accept calculus for the statistics prerequisite?

No, it does not.

Will courses from other colleges and universities be accepted to meet the pre-requisites?

Yes, prerequisite courses may be taken at any US regionally accredited school, including online programs.

What letter grade is required for prerequisite coursework?

A letter grade (A, B, C or D) or numerical grade (4.0, 3.0, 2.0 or 1.0) is acceptable. Generally, the higher the grade, the more competitive the applicant. Grades of F, W, WF and or DF are not accepted for any prerequisites. Grades of P (Pass) and CR (Credit) may be accepted by permission only.

Will you accept advanced placement (AP) credits and/or credit by examination for any prerequisite coursework?

Yes and no. Beginning April 2020, AP credit/credit by exam will be accepted for prerequisite coursework only if the following conditions are met:

1. Credit for the course(s) is documented on the official transcript sent to CASPA.
2. Additional official/unofficial transcripts will not be accepted by the department. They must be available in the CASPA application.
3. Credit for the course(s) is listed in detail on the official transcript with both course number and course title for each credit earned. Course without this detail will not be accepted.
4. AP credit/credit by exam awarded by Northern Arizona University will be honored.

Will you accept concurrent enrollment courses taken while in high school?

Yes and no. Concurrent enrollment coursework must be included as part of the official transcript in order to be considered for prerequisite completion. Concurrent enrollment coursework documented only on high school transcripts only will not be accepted.

Does the program accept online courses?

Yes, as long as they are from a US regionally accredited institution and documented on the official transcript.

Are laboratory courses required to be taken with all science courses?

Yes and No. Laboratory components are required for both anatomy & physiology, both general chemistry, and the microbiology requirements. Some schools include laboratories as part of the overall credit for the parent course. Other schools require separate registration for laboratory courses. Applicants should ensure they follow their school’s requirements for laboratory components. Laboratory components for both general biology and the organic chemistry/biochemistry requirements are not required.

Does the program accept online lab courses?

Yes, as long as they are from a regionally accredited institution.

Do prerequisites have to be taken within a certain time frame? Do they expire?

No, applicants can use credit for prerequisites taken at any time in the past. However, applicants should ensure that at least 9 credits of science coursework are taken in the last 5 years. The 9 credits do NOT have to be sciences listed in the prerequisites.

Does the program accept community college coursework?

Yes, as long as the community college is regionally accredited and the coursework is documented officially on a transcript.

Does the program “waive” any prerequisites?

No, it does not.

I attended medical school in the USA. Will the program give me credit for those courses?

No, it will not.

I attended PA school at another PA program but did not complete the program. Can I apply to NAU? Will the program give me credit for any of those courses?

Yes. You may apply to the PA program at NAU. Admission decisions are based on competitive application with the overall applicant pool. No special preference is given. In the event an applicant with prior PA coursework is invited to join the program, the student will not be given credit for any PA coursework taken at other institutions.

I took coursework at a school that uses quarter/trimester credits instead of semester credits. How do I know if I have enough “semester” credit hours to meet NAU’s prerequisite requirements?

To convert quarter/trimester credits to semester credits, multiply the number of quarter/trimester credits by 0.667. For example, a course worth 5 quarter/trimester credits is worth 3.34 semester credits.

Do all prerequisites need to be completed and graded by the September 1 deadline?

Yes. Prerequisite courses cannot be “in progress” past the September 1 deadline. Applicants indicating courses as “in progress” on the CASPA application prior to the September 1 deadline are responsible for notifying the program of course completion.

I will be finished with my prerequisites before the application deadline (September 1), but I am submitting my CASPA application before I finish the course(s). Can I still apply?

Yes, you can still apply. However, the coursework must be finished, graded, and appear on the official transcript by the September 1 deadline. If an applicant submitted the CASPA application before finishing the prerequisite coursework, it is the applicant’s responsibility to follow-up with the program to be considered further. The program will not seek out applicants who have prerequisite courses missing and/or marked “in progress” on CASPA.

Does the program accept “continuing/professional education” courses to satisfy the prerequisites?

No. All coursework must be official coursework taken at a college and/or university. Coursework must be part of the official catalog of course offerings at an educational institution. Courses and trainings offered for the purposes of professional and career development are not considered for the satisfaction of PA program prerequisites.

Do I have to submit official transcripts?

Yes, to CASPA (upon application) and to NAU (upon acceptance).

Do I send transcripts to the PA program?

No, unless requested by the program.

Do you accept unofficial transcripts?

No, unless otherwise requested by the PA program.

Do I need to submit official transcripts to CASPA from every school I attended even though I transferred coursework?

Yes. Transcripts from all schools attended are required regardless of transfer coursework. Consult CASPA policy for further details.

I have a degree from the USA and a degree from a foreign country. Do I need to submit my foreign transcripts?

Yes. All transcripts from all schools attended are required. Foreign transcript evaluation (WES/ECE) may not be required for foreign transcripts for applicants with degrees from the USA although the admissions committee may still ask for an official evaluation from WES/ECE. Applicants using foreign coursework to satisfy minimum Bachelor’s degree or higher requirements must submit WES/ECE evaluations along with the foreign transcripts.

I attended another professional graduate school (medical school, dental school, etc.) but did not complete the degree. My Bachelor’s degree is complete. Do I still have to submit the incomplete graduate school coursework transcript?

Yes. All transcripts from all schools attended are required. Applicants with histories of failure to complete professional graduate degrees should be prepared to discuss circumstances in detail that contributed to prior degree incompletion. Applicants who fail to report prior degree work may be considered in breach of the CASPA Code of Conduct.

My transcript shows academic probation and/or academic dismissal. Will I still be considered for admission?

Yes; however, applicants must be prepared to discuss either and/or both in detail.

Do I need to submit high school transcripts?

High school transcripts are not accepted.

What is the minimum GPA required to for admission?

The minimum GPA for admission is a 3.0 GPA on overall coursework (all courses, all schools, all transcripts) and a 3.0 GPA on all science coursework. Courses considered “science” are listed on the CASPA website. Please consult the CASPA website for details.

How are GPAs calculated?

GPAs are calculated by CASPA from all coursework submitted by the applicant. NAU does not recalculate nor correct CASPA GPA calculations. Applicants should consult CASPA for detailed information on GPA calculation.

Is the minimum 3.0 GPA required for all science courses taken or just the PA Program prerequisites?

Qualified candidates will have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 for all college level science coursework taken at all institutions. Applicants should consult CASPA for detailed information about science GPA calculation.

Does the program use the “most recent” grade for a repeated course to “replace” older grades?

The program follows CASPA policy. CASPA includes ALL grades for ALL courses taken regardless of repetition.

What does the program look for on transcripts?

Besides successful course completion with competitive grades, the program looks for trends in performance, drops/withdrawals, repeats, and academic rigor.

How many semester credit hours should I be taking per semester?

The most competitive applicants take 15+ semester credit hours per semester. The least competitive applicants take <9 semester credit hours per semester.

I worked full-time while I was enrolled in courses. I could not take 15 hours every semester. Does the program take working into consideration?

Yes, but it is crucial for applicants to document their work and course loads in CASPA. This can also be discussed during admissions interviews if invited.

I attended a quarter/trimester school. How do I convert my courses to meet NAU’s requirements?

The CASPA system will automatically convert quarter hours to semester hours (quarter hour x 0.667) if quarters are reported on the transcript. CASPA verifiers do not manually convert hours. The conversion of quarter hours to semester hours only occurs in the GPA section of the application. Conversion is not done on the Coursework section of the application.

Can I apply and be accepted as a DACA student?

Yes. The PA program accepts applications from DACA applicants. DACA applicants can be admitted to the program through the traditional competitive admissions process. DACA status is not considered in admissions decisions.

What details do I need to know as a DACA PA student?

The following points must be disclosed and considered by applicants, all of which are determined by Arizona state law:

1. DACA students may pay out-of-state tuition rates*
2. DACA students do not qualify for federal financial aid
3. Individuals in Arizona under DACA with an Arizona Driver’s license are eligible for Arizona PA licensure. All Individuals who are under DACA can obtain an Arizona Driver license.

*some exceptions for Arizona high school graduates may apply

Where can I get more information and resources, including scholarships, for DACA students at NAU?

Dreamer/DACA/Undocumented Student Scholarships and Resources

I have a degree from the USA and a degree from a foreign country. Do I need to submit my foreign transcripts?

Yes. All transcripts from all schools attended are required. Foreign transcript evaluation (WES/ECE) may not be required for foreign transcripts for applicants with degrees from the USA although the admissions committee may still ask for an official evaluation from WES/ECE. Applicants using foreign coursework to satisfy Bachelor’s degree or higher requirements must submit WES/ECE evaluations along with the foreign transcripts.

Does the program accept foreign medical graduates?

Yes, provided all prerequisites have been completed at a US regionally institution and the applicant meets all other minimum course requirements.

Does the program accept any other foreign transcript evaluations besides WES/ECE?

No. Only WES/ECE are accepted. WES is preferred by CASPA and the program.

Can foreign medical graduates get advanced placement for coursework?

No. Advanced placement is not offered for any program coursework for any individual for any reason.

Can the program review my foreign credentials to determine if I am qualified to apply?

Due to the volume of inquires we receive, we are not able to schedule individual appointments in most cases. However, we do address telephone and email inquiries as quickly as we can. We do not offer transcript review. Email inquiries are preferred. Our email address for inquiries is PAProg@nau.edu. Additionally, tours of the Health Sciences Education Building are conducted twice a month (see schedule). Time permitting, questions will be answered both during and after the tours.

Does the program require the GRE?

No. The department discontinued the GRE requirement on March 17, 2020.

Does the program require the PA-CAT?

No, the program does not.

Does the program require the MCAT?

No, the program does not.

Does the program require direct patient care experience?

Direct patient care experience is not required; however, it is highly recommended.

Does the program prefer paid over volunteer health care experience?

The program does not prefer paid over volunteer health care experience. Both are considered valuable.

What type(s) of health care experience are recommended to fulfill the admission requirement of 500 hours?

High quality health care experience might include, but are not limited to, the following: medical assistant, PT, RT, OT, MSW, EMT, LPN, chiropractor, RN, CNA, nurse’s aide, medic or corpsman, paramedic, PharmD, OD, NP, foreign medical graduate, DVM, DPM, medical lab technician, medical technologist, athletic trainer, audiologist, exercise physiologist, radiology technician, phlebotomist, optometry technician, registered dietician, patient care assistant, and PT assistant. Additional acceptable experience might include the following: medical scribe, research technician, lab-based researcher volunteering at marathons, blood donor clinics, and other non-medical work in waiting room or other medical setting.

Is PA shadowing required for admission?

No, PA shadowing is not required for admission; however, shadowing a PA can provide some valuable insights about the profession. It can also be counted as health care experience. Some applicants also ask PAs whom they shadow to write letters of reference/recommendation. Applicants with PA shadowing and/or letters from PAs are not given any advantage in the admissions process.

Does the program require community service and/or extracurricular activities?

Although there is no minimum required, the admissions committee highly recommends community service and extracurricular activities. The most successful applicants have many hours of involvement.

Can I count my clinical hours from a previous degree toward my 500 hour requirement for health care experience?

Yes. You may count those hours as long as the description of those hours in your CASPA application clearly defines that you were a student in training and that the experience was directly related to health care. Hours documented unrelated to healthcare will not be accepted. Please include details about your role and duties while acquiring that experience.

Does the program update and/or recalculate healthcare experience hours throughout the application cycle?

No. Applicants should have already completed the minimum of 500 hours prior to submitting their application. Projected healthcare experience hours are not accepted.

Are letters of reference required to apply?

Yes. Three letters of reference are required to apply.

When are letters of reference/recommendation due?  

A minimum of 3 letters of reference must be completed and available in your CASPA application no later than September 1. If a minimum of 3 letters of reference are not completed by September 1 your application cannot be considered further.  

How do I submit my letters of reference?

Letters are accepted through the CASPA system only. Please follow CASPA instructions for submission.

I need to submit a written and/or extra letter of recommendation? How do I submit it? Who do I send it to?

Letters of reference submitted outside of the CASPA system cannot be used in the admissions process. Applicants are welcome to send them directly to our program office in Phoenix for inclusion in the admissions file for reference only.

Who can write letters of reference for me?

Anyone the applicant chooses. The program prefers letters from health care professionals applicants have shadowed or worked with, employers/supervisors and professors. Letters from friends and family are discouraged.

What should the letters of reference contain?

The letters of reference are standard format from CASPA. Please follow CASPA instructions for letters of reference.

The CASPA system is asking me to “waive” my right to see the letters of reference. What should I answer?

It’s up to the applicant, but the standard is to waive the right to see them. Many people, especially professors, will not write letters of recommendation without a waiver on file with CASPA.

I sent requests to all three of my references, but only two returned the letters to CASPA. The deadline has passed. What should I do?

Ultimately, it is the applicant’s responsibility to make sure the entire application/submission process is complete. The program does not make exceptions for lack of responsibility on the part of the applicant. Applicants should communicate with CASPA customer service to resolve any technological issues affecting letters of reference.

Will an interview be required? If so, when will it occur?

Interview day activities are required for admissions decisions. The most qualified candidates will be invited for virtual interviews and activities. Interview activity dates typically begin in September and run through December.

Are interviews in person or held virtually?

Interviews are currently held virtually and there are no current plans to return to in-person interviews. 

What is the purpose of the admissions interview?

Every PA program has a different purpose for interviewing applicants. At NAU, the PA program uses the interview process as a means to provide a more qualitative and holistic approach to the admissions process. Apart from reviewing the entire CASPA application as a whole, the program considers the interview process a vital part of the decision-making process. Applicants have the opportunity to be advocates for themselves through activities designed to provide rich description of their purpose and process for applying to NAU. The interview day is run over an entire day. It is as much of an opportunity for applicants to get to know the program as it is for program to get to know its applicants.

How will I know if I am invited for interview activities?

All invited applicants will be notified by email. The email used to contact all applicants is the preferred email address entered into the CASPA application. It is the applicant’s responsibility to keep the email address current on CASPA and to check email correspondence in a timely manner. All correspondence from the PA program to the applicant is strictly documented to ensure both program and applicant are well informed.

How are applicants selected for interviews?

Each applicant’s file is reviewed in detail. Those with the best combination of more favorable characteristics are invited.

How many interview invitations are sent out?

The number of invitations varies every year. In general, the PA program prefers to interview at least three applicants for every position in the new class.

Fellow applicants that also applied to NAU received interview invitations. I did not get an invite when they did. Should I assume I will not receive an interview?

Interview invitations are typically offered on a rolling basis September – December each year. Upon completion of the cycle the program will notify all applicants of their final application status (this usually happens in January).

How can I prepare for my interview?

Search online for interview tips and techniques. Dress in business formal attire. Research as much as you can about NAU’s PA program. Applicants are expected to be familiar with the curriculum and the mission of the program.

How much does the interview count toward the admissions decision?

This may vary from year to year and is not considered public information; however, the interview is a crucial part of the admissions process. The PA program uses the interview process as a means to provide a more qualitative and holistic approach to the admissions process. Apart from reviewing the entire CASPA application as a whole, the program considers the interview process a vital part of the decision-making process.

What happens during the interview day? What activities can I expect?

Interview day activities consist of exercises and experiences designed for the program to get to know each applicant and for each applicant to get to know the program. Examples of activities include, but are not limited to, information sessions, virtual campus tours, individual and group interviews, and interaction with existing PA students.

I was invited for an interview and assigned a date. Can I attend the interview on a different date?

Yes and no. Logistics for scheduling interviews can be complicated and difficult to change. Although we prefer not to make changes to interview day schedules, we understand sometimes there may be some extenuating circumstances. Applicants with interview invitations having difficulty attending on the assigned date should communicate with the program as soon as possible to inquire whether any changes can be made. Unfortunately, changes requested that affect the last few dates for interviews are rarely able to be accommodated.

Will I be able to meet current PA students to ask them questions about the program?

Yes. The program makes every effort to include a meet and greet with PA students who have volunteered to be ambassadors during the lunch hour. Due to extenuating scheduling circumstances, it is sometimes difficult to recruit a large number of PA students from both classes. Generally, PA students in their first year (didactic) participate as ambassadors. Clinical year (second year) students are difficult to recruit due to complex off campus scheduling.

How many applicants are accepted?

Currently, the PA program accepts 60 new students per year.

Does NAU have “rolling” admissions?

Yes and no. The PA program utilizes a “quasi-rolling” process to make admissions decisions.

Is there a difference between waitlist and alternate status?

Yes. The admissions committee follows a quasi-rolling process to make admissions decisions. A small number of applicants are either accepted or denied after each interview day. The rest (majority) are “waitlisted” for further review at a later time in the admissions cycle pending further review by admissions committee members. Once the admissions committee has completed the review process, an applicant’s status is changed to “offered, denied or alternate.” Alternate status is changed to “offered” only when the applicant has been invited to join the incoming class of 60 students of any one of the 60 “offered” applicants turns down the offer.

How many alternates are selected?

This number can vary from year to year and is not considered public information. Sufficient alternates are selected to meet the 60 new students per year.

Is the alternate list ranked in order of preference?

Yes, the alternate list is ranked in order of preference.

Will the PA program tell me what my alternate rank is in order to assess my admissions chances?

Yes, all alternates are given their rank order at the time of status assignment.

I have been waitlisted pending further review. Can I find out why? Is there anything I can do to help the admissions committee make a decision?

No. The admissions committee reserves the ability to make the best decision possible by utilizing as much of the data gathered from the admissions process. Our admissions professionals will communicate with waitlisted applicants when a decision has been made.

May I contact members of the PA faculty and/or admissions committee regarding my application?

Generally, no. Applicants should refrain from contacting faculty and admissions committee members until the admissions process has been completed. If there is an extenuating circumstance with some urgency that requires the immediate attention of our program, please contact our admissions staff by phone at (602) 298-4015 or by email at PAProg@nau.edu as soon as possible. Our admissions staff will determine next steps on an individual basis.

I did not get accepted. Can I find out why? Who can I talk to?

Due to the volume of inquiries we receive and the sensitivity of all admissions decisions, the PA program does not discuss any admissions decision with any applicant. Applicants with difficulty gaining admission to the program should continue to attend as many information sessions on campus and local recruitment events as possible. Tours of the Health Sciences Education Building are conducted regularly (see schedule). Time permitting, questions will be answered both during and after the tours. Individualized advising by PA program faculty is reserved for enrolled PA students in the program and is not available for admissions purposes. Many of our faculty attend various recruiting events throughout the state of Arizona where applicants are free to ask questions about the admissions process. Faculty do not review admissions data and decisions with applicants. The PA program continues to develop strong relationships with health professions advisors at colleges and universities throughout the state of Arizona. Applicants should contact their school’s advisors advice regarding the admissions process.

How is residency status determined?

Residency status is determined at the time of admission to NAU. If an applicant is offered a seat in the incoming class and the applicant accepts the seat, the PA program forwards the decision to accept and admit to the Office of Graduate and Professional Studies. Residency status is determined by administration on the main campus only. The PA program makes no decisions locally regarding residency nor does it provide any advice locally regarding residency status assignments. Applicants and new PA students should forward their residency status questions to following the email address: Residency@nau.edu.

Can I work while I am enrolled in the program?

The program strongly discourages students working, even part time, while enrolled in the program.

Does the program require a security deposit if I get accepted?

No, a security deposit is not required.

Can I enroll in the program part-time?

No. The program is offered only on a full-time basis.

Is a criminal background check required?

The admissions committee does not use criminal background checks to make admissions decisions. Most, if not all clinical sites require relatively clear criminal records in order to participate in and complete clinical rotations. Students will need to complete background checks during and in preparation for the clinical year and will be prompted by the program when to do so.

Will my criminal background affect my ability to gain admission into the program?

No. The admissions committee does not use the criminal background to make admissions decisions. However, your criminal background may affect your ability to complete the program. If you feel your criminal background may affect your ability to complete the program, please consult with the program director. Most, if not all, clinical sites require relatively clear criminal records in order to participate in and complete clinical rotations.

How often do I need to get a criminal background check?

Variable, as required by clinical site partners.

What kind of criminal record may affect my ability to complete the program?

Individuals with a felony conviction may experience difficulty acquiring licensure as a PA in most states. In some states, the same may be true with serious misdemeanors. Students with criminal records may have difficulty being placed at clinical rotation sites. If you feel your criminal background may affect your ability to complete the program, please consult with the program director.

Are drug screens required?

Periodic drug screens are required in order to rotate through certain facilities and clinical sites.

Is a pre-participation physical examination required?

Yes. Proof of recent physical examination by a licensed healthcare provider must be on file at matriculation. Detailed instructions are sent to all accepted applicants before matriculation.

Are any immunizations required by the program?

Yes. Students are required to receive immunizations based on current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations for health professionals, state specific mandates, and site specific requirements.

If I am accepted and have an emergency, can I defer my decision?

Yes. Applicants invited to join the PA program may request to defer the admissions decision for one year, only under extenuating circumstances. Deferrals must be approved in advance by the Program Director.

I have graduate level coursework in anatomy completed at another institution. Do I still need to take the Anatomy course required in this program?

Yes, all required PHA coursework must be taken while enrolled in the program. No advanced placement/transfer credit is accepted.

I attended another PA program. Can any of my previous PA coursework be applied to my NAU PASP degree plan?

No. Applicants with coursework from other PA programs will not be given advanced placement standing, credit or advantage in the competitive admissions process nor can the coursework be used to replace any NAU coursework.

What is the process for requesting advanced placement credit?

There is no process for advanced placement credit. The PA program does not allow advanced placement credit for any PHA courses for any reason from any discipline. Credit by examination for PHA courses is not offered.

I have a documented disability that may require accommodations. What should I do about reporting my disability?

Upon acceptance, if you have a documented disability, you can request accommodations by contacting Disability Resources (DR) at 523-8773 (voice) or 523-6906 (TTY), dr@nau.edu (e-mail) or 928-523-8747 (fax). Once eligibility has been determined, students are required to register with DR every semester to activate their accommodations. Although you may request an accommodation at any time, in order for DR to best meet your individual needs, you are urged to submit a self-identification form and necessary documentation at least 4 weeks prior to the time you wish to receive accommodations. DR is strongly committed to the needs of students with disabilities and the promotion of Universal Design. Concerns or questions related to the accessibility of programs and facilities at NAU may be brought to the attention of DR or the Equity and Access Office (523-3312 or equityandaccess@nau.edu). The university ADA Coordinator/504 Compliance Officer is DR Director, Jamie Axelrod. He may be reached at Jamie.Axelrod@nau.edu.

How difficult is the first year of PA school at NAU? What can I expect?

PA education can be a rigorous and strenuous process. Although the PA program makes every effort to make PA school “enjoyable,” the overwhelming nature of large amounts of course content, curriculum, assessments, examinations, and commitments required of PA students renders the experience most likely less enjoyable than previously attempted experiences in higher education. Potential students should look carefully at the curriculum map available on our website to make informed decisions about career planning and student/life balance.

How many hours per week are required for on campus coursework?

The number of classroom contact hours varies from course to course from week to week. However, potential students should expect to be occupied with on campus curriculum a minimum of 30 – 40+ hours per week depending on scheduling. PA students often spend 4 – 8 hours studying outside of the classroom per day.

How many exams per week are given by professors?

The number of exams and/or assessments given per week varies by course and type of exam/assessment. The PA program makes every effort to limit high stakes exams/assessments to no more than two per week. Due to scheduling and extenuating circumstances, PA students are expected to be flexible and ready to be examined/assessed with short notice. There are weeks; i.e., finals week and others, with three or more scheduled exams/assessments.

Does the program teach any online courses?

Yes and no. Currently, the PA program does not offer any exclusively online courses. Program faculty do utilize hybrid teaching modalities that require students to learn in online platforms. All PHA courses include some element of online instruction to varying degrees. PA students are expected to be flexible and open to non-traditional, innovative, novel, and creative methods of curriculum delivery.

Does the PA program require any kind of technology upon matriculation such as a laptop or tablet computer? If so, what specifications and/or software are required?

Yes. Every PA student must possess a working and reliable laptop computer. Laptops should be recent technology with capability of connecting to the internet. Machines with either Windows or MacOS are required. Chrome (Chromebook) laptops are not compatible with testing software required for all PHA courses. Tablet devices are both portable and valuable for the modern educational experience. Although they are not required, many students find them to be helpful adjuncts for learning and entertainment purposes. All PA students are expected to check online course management systems and email communication often. This may require paying for monthly internet service at home throughout the entire PA curriculum. NAU provides the Microsoft Office 365 package to PA students while enrolled in the program for free. The PA program requires students to take written examinations on laptop using program provided software.

Does the PA program require any kind of equipment to be purchased for use while in the program?

Yes. The PA program requires all PA students to purchase a medical equipment kit just prior to matriculation. The kit includes such things as a high-quality stethoscope, otoscope/ophthalmoscope, tuning forks, and reflex hammer to name a few items.

Where do I buy medical equipment required for PA school and what do I buy? Which brands and specifications, etc.?

All matriculating students will be sent an order form containing a list of approved/required brands and specifications for medical equipment a few months prior to matriculation. The PA program has made every effort to secure volume student pricing to ensure the best possible pricing for each student. Every student is required to purchase the approved/required medical equipment kit through an approved vendor. Students can expect to pay around $900.00 – $1000.00 for the medical equipment kit.

Does NAU offer child care services while enrolled in the PA program?

Child care services are not available at the Phoenix Bioscience Campus.

Does the program offer tutoring for PA coursework?

Formal individualized and group tutoring is provided for the Gross Anatomy course. Tutoring may be arranged for all other PHA coursework as needed but is not guaranteed. The PA program employs the services of a learning specialist who works closely with students to determine learning styles, best practices for studying, developing study habits, time management, exam performance, and certification exam preparation to name a few things. The program employs various remediation and retention techniques depending on course requirements and individual student needs.

Does the program require students to join any professional associations?

Yes. All PA students are required to join both the Arizona Society of Physician Assistants (ASAPA) and the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA) as student members. PA students should plan on paying between $75 – 150 for a student membership lasting the two years enrolled in the program.

What are clinical rotations and how many hours a week are required?

Clinical rotations are supervised clinical practice experiences completed under the supervision of a preceptor who is responsible for student training over a four or eight week time period. While some rotations have a 45-hour work week, the time required could be higher. The student is also expected to do additional studying after hours to meet the expectations of the rotations and the program.

What disciplines are covered in clinical rotations?

The ‘core’ clinical disciplines are family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, women’s health, mental health, surgery and emergency medicine. There is also one ‘elective’ rotation. All rotation assignments are determined based on availability, quality of the site, and are located in Arizona. Beginning in Fall 2025 all rotations are 6-weeks in length.

Can clinical rotations be completed outside of Arizona?

No. Because of the mission of this program, every student is required to complete most, if not all, clinical rotations in Arizona. Under very few circumstances, students may complete clinical rotations outside of the state. Requests for out-of-state rotations are approved for very limited reasons. Applicants hoping to complete clinical rotations in their home state should try to apply to PA programs located closer to home. Students may complete their elective clinical rotation in any location within the continental United States which includes Alaska and Hawaii.

Can I work while I am taking courses during the didactic year and/or completing the clinical rotations?

The program is an intensive and demanding course of study. Working while attending the program is strongly discouraged. Absences, tardiness, and failure to participate in program curriculum and activities will not be excused due to work obligations and may result in poor performance and/or recommendation for dismissal from the program. Please see our Technical Standards document.

Where in Arizona will the clinical rotations be located?

The program is responsible for the assignment of all clinical rotations. Clinical rotations are available throughout Arizona, and in a variety of settings. Students are expected to be flexible and although the program will make all reasonable attempts to accommodate student preferences, students may not always be assigned their choice of sites and locations. When feasible and at the students’ requests, placements are made in locations close to or within the communities where students have ties. This is in support of the program’s mission to develop health care providers for the underserved areas of Arizona. The program has active clinical rotations across the state of Arizona. Every student is assigned some clinical rotations at distances anywhere from one to six hours away from the Phoenix metro area. Due to availability of clinical sites and preceptors, some students may have more geographically distant clinical experiences than others.

Is housing available for distant clinical rotations? If so, do I have to pay for housing?

The clinical year team keeps an updated list of available student housing options throughout the state. Most student housing is affordable. Some students choose to seek their own housing options or commute daily, whichever they find most economical and efficient. Students are responsible for the cost of housing and transportation during the clinical phase of the program.

Does the program offer international clinical rotations?

The program does not currently offer any rotations located outside the United States.

What are the requirements for the elective rotation?

The elective rotation has the same duration and hours requirements of other rotations. It can be arranged anywhere within the United States which includes Alaska and Hawaii. Students are required to return to the downtown Phoenix campus on the last day of the rotation for testing and activities. No exceptions are made due to distant travel to elective rotations. Students interested in elective rotations outside the state of Arizona must request their interest to rotate distantly within the specified timeline and deadline given by the Faculty Clinical Coordinator. Elective rotations located at distant locations to Arizona are preferably allowed when they are “outpatient” in nature. Contractual agreements and negotiations with inpatient/institutional entities require six to twelve months processing time which may prevent the elective approval.

What specialties are allowed for elective rotation?

Any medical specialty where a physician assistant can provide services is allowed.

Student Handbook

What are the program’s graduation requirements?

Every student must successfully complete the entire PHA curriculum with a minimum 3.0 GPA, no more than 11 accumulated hours of C grades, no F grades, and be continuously enrolled. In addition, every student must satisfactorily complete/pass several benchmarks designed to assess both knowledge and competency throughout the program. These include but are not limited to a final comprehensive written examination, a final comprehensive clinical/practical examination, and a completed peer-reviewed, evidence-based medicine research project.

Does the program place graduates in jobs after completion of the program?

No. The program does not participate in any job placement activities for alumni. However, the program and its faculty are a good resource for any PA job search. The program also relies on the Arizona State Association of Physician Assistants (ASAPA) to assist with the PA job search via the position postings available to all ASAPA members.

How does the program prepare students for the PANCE?

Completion of the entire 24-month curriculum is the primary preparation method utilized by our program. The PA program prides itself on not being laser-focused on the PANCE as the only measure of success for any graduate. Program faculty are not only interested in successful scores on the PANCE, but also producing the best possible competent practitioners for our community and the public of Arizona and beyond. Students enrolled in our program will be subject to frequent benchmarks and assessments to further develop their knowledge base and practical skills of assessment and critical thinking.

Where do NAU graduates work?

The latest data show that our graduates work in almost every specialty. The slight majority of our graduates work in primary care specialties while a large percentage do work in specialties not considered primary care. This is in accordance with national trends. One national study shows that 83% of NAU graduates (2014 – 2017 cohorts) remain practicing in Arizona. This comes as a direct result of the mission of the NAU program to address healthcare needs in Arizona.