Long Island University PA program delivers an accelerated pathway to physician assistant practice for career changers and healthcare professionals. The curriculum emphasizes clinical reasoning, hands-on training, and service to diverse communities on Long Island and beyond.
Designed for dedicated adults, the program combines rigorous coursework with extensive clinical rotations to meet national certification and New York State licensure standards.
Program Overview at a Glance
| Program | Duration | Format | Typical Start | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physician Assistant (MS) | 27 months | Full-time, hybrid | May | ARC-PA |
| Prerequisite Completion | 6–12 months | Part-time, online | Rolling | Program-specific |
| Clinical Rotations | 12 months | In-person, multiple sites | Year 2–3 | Site-dependent |
| Board Pass Rate (Recent) | First-time | 95–100% | N/A | National average |
Curriculum and Coursework
Core Science Foundations
The didactic phase covers anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and clinical medicine. Small-group learning and case-based teaching prepare students to integrate basic science with patient care.
Clinical Skills Training
Simulation labs and standardized patient encounters build history-taking, physical exam, and procedural skills. Students practice evidence-based decision making in high-fidelity settings before entering real-world clinical environments.
Clinical Rotations and Hands-On Experience
Primary Care Settings
Rotations in family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics provide longitudinal patient exposure and continuity. Students manage common conditions and collaborate with interprofessional teams.
Specialty Rotations
Elective rotations in emergency medicine, surgery, psychiatry, and women’s health broaden clinical reasoning. Sites include urban hospitals, community health centers, and Veterans Affairs facilities across Long Island.
Admissions and Application Process
Applicants submit academic transcripts, PRAHEX/MCAT scores, healthcare observation hours, and a personal statement. The holistic review assesses science competence, communication skills, and commitment to service.
Interviews focus on ethical reasoning, teamwork, and resilience. Selected candidates complete matriculation requirements and health clearances before orientation.
Career Outcomes and Professional Pathways
Graduates are prepared to take the PANCE and pursue state licensure in New York and other jurisdictions. Many enter hospital-based roles, while others pursue specialties, research, or leadership positions in primary and community care.
- Complete prerequisite coursework with a strong science GPA
- Gain direct patient care experience and secure strong recommendation letters
- Prepare for the PA CAS and personal statement with clear professional goals
- Engage in mock interviews and refine communication and teamwork skills
- Plan for relocation, housing, and financial logistics before matriculation
FAQ
Reader questions
What are the prerequisite requirements for applicants?
Applicants should complete biology with lab, general chemistry with lab, organic chemistry with lab, biochemistry, microbiology, anatomy and physiology, and college-level physics or statistics. Competitive applicants also have documented healthcare exposure and strong interpersonal skills.
Can I work while enrolled in the program?
The program is designed as a full-time, immersive experience with limited flexibility for external employment. Students are encouraged to focus on academic and clinical responsibilities, particularly during clinical rotations.
How do clinical rotation locations get assigned?
Clinical sites are coordinated by the Office of Clinical Education based on educational goals, site capacity, and licensing requirements. Students may express location preferences, but assignments prioritize learning objectives and compliance with accreditation standards.
What support services are available for students?
Academic advising, mental health counseling, peer mentoring, and career services help students navigate the rigorous curriculum. Resources include simulation labs, tutoring, and financial guidance to support success through graduation.