The CUNY School of Medicine Physician Assistant (PA) Program is a highly competitive and innovative program that offers students the opportunity to pursue a career in medicine while making a positive impact on their communities. Located in the heart of New York City, the program is part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system, which is known for its academic excellence and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Established in 2016, the CUNY School of Medicine PA Program is a 28-month master's degree program that is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA). The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the principles and practices of medicine, as well as the skills and knowledge necessary to become a competent and compassionate physician assistant. With a strong focus on primary care and community health, the program prepares students to work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
Program Curriculum and Structure
The CUNY School of Medicine PA Program curriculum is divided into two phases: the didactic phase and the clinical phase. The didactic phase, which lasts for 12 months, provides students with a foundation in the basic sciences, including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and pathology. Students also receive training in clinical skills, such as taking medical histories, performing physical exams, and developing treatment plans. The clinical phase, which lasts for 16 months, provides students with hands-on experience in a variety of clinical settings, including internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and obstetrics and gynecology.
The program also includes a number of elective courses and rotations, which allow students to pursue their interests and gain experience in specialized areas of medicine. Some of the elective courses and rotations available to students include geriatrics, palliative care, and global health. With a faculty-to-student ratio of 1:10, students receive personalized attention and mentorship from experienced physician assistants and physicians.
Admissions Requirements and Process
To be eligible for admission to the CUNY School of Medicine PA Program, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and a minimum GPA of 3.0. Applicants must also have completed a number of prerequisite courses, including biology, chemistry, and physics. The program uses a holistic approach to admissions, considering not only an applicant’s academic credentials but also their personal statement, letters of recommendation, and experience in the healthcare field.
The admissions process typically begins in the summer, with applications due by October 1st. Interviews are typically held in the fall, and admission decisions are made on a rolling basis. The program receives over 1,000 applications each year, and only 30 students are accepted into the program. With an acceptance rate of 3%, the program is highly competitive, and applicants must demonstrate a strong commitment to the physician assistant profession and a passion for working in underserved communities.
| Admissions Requirements | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's Degree | Required from an accredited institution |
| Minimum GPA | 3.0 |
| Prerequisite Courses | Biology, Chemistry, Physics |
| Personal Statement | Required |
| Letters of Recommendation | Required (2) |
| Healthcare Experience | Recommended |
Key Points
- The CUNY School of Medicine PA Program is a 28-month master's degree program that is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA)
- The program has a strong focus on primary care and community health, preparing students to work in a variety of healthcare settings
- The program includes a number of elective courses and rotations, which allow students to pursue their interests and gain experience in specialized areas of medicine
- The admissions process is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of 3%
- Applicants must demonstrate a strong commitment to the physician assistant profession and a passion for working in underserved communities
Program Outcomes and Accreditation
The CUNY School of Medicine PA Program has a strong track record of success, with graduates going on to work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA), which ensures that the program meets the highest standards of quality and excellence.
According to the program's website, the graduation rate for the class of 2020 was 100%, and the first-time pass rate on the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) was 95%. The program also has a strong job placement rate, with 95% of graduates finding employment within six months of graduation. With a median salary range of $100,000-$120,000 per year, graduates of the program are well-compensated and have a high level of job satisfaction.
Faculty and Research
The CUNY School of Medicine PA Program has a diverse and experienced faculty, with a range of expertise in different areas of medicine. The faculty includes physician assistants, physicians, and other healthcare professionals who are committed to providing students with a high-quality education and mentorship. The program also has a strong research focus, with faculty and students working together on a range of research projects, including studies on healthcare disparities, health outcomes, and medical education.
Some of the current research projects include a study on the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare disparities in underserved communities, and a study on the effectiveness of a new curriculum design in improving student outcomes. With a strong focus on community-based research, the program is committed to addressing the healthcare needs of underserved communities and promoting health equity.
What are the admissions requirements for the CUNY School of Medicine PA Program?
+To be eligible for admission to the CUNY School of Medicine PA Program, applicants must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and a minimum GPA of 3.0. Applicants must also have completed a number of prerequisite courses, including biology, chemistry, and physics.
What is the curriculum like for the CUNY School of Medicine PA Program?
+The CUNY School of Medicine PA Program curriculum is divided into two phases: the didactic phase and the clinical phase. The didactic phase provides students with a foundation in the basic sciences, while the clinical phase provides students with hands-on experience in a variety of clinical settings.
What are the career prospects like for graduates of the CUNY School of Medicine PA Program?
+Graduates of the CUNY School of Medicine PA Program have a range of career prospects, including working in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. According to the program's website, the job placement rate for graduates is 95%, and the median salary range is $100,000-$120,000 per year.
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