Choosing the right physician assistant (PA) program is one of the most important steps in becoming a certified PA-C. With the growing demand for skilled PAs across all healthcare settings, more students are searching for the best PA programs that offer a combination of academic excellence, real-world clinical experience, and strong career support. But with so many options, how do you decide which PA school is right for you?

Before enrolling, it is essential to understand what defines a high-quality PA program and how these programs can set you up for long-term success. Whether you're just beginning your research or narrowing your list of schools, this guide offers a detailed checklist of what to look for—along with tips to help you compare your options with confidence.

Understanding the Basics: How Long Is PA School?

Most PA programs take about 24 to 36 months to complete. At MGH Institute, our program takes 25 months to complete. These programs typically lead to a Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) or a similar graduate-level degree. Students enter PA school having completed prerequisite coursework in the sciences, along with some hands-on patient care experience.

Upon completion, graduates must pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) to earn the PA-C credential. Because this timeline is relatively short compared to medical school, PA school offers a quicker route into advanced clinical practice—making it a compelling option for those eager to make an impact.

The Top Qualities of the Best PA Programs

As you explore different schools, use this checklist to evaluate what makes a PA program truly stand out.

1. Accreditation Status

First and foremost, ensure that any program you consider is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA). Accreditation is more than a stamp of approval—it confirms that the program meets national standards for preparing competent healthcare providers.

2. Strong Clinical Training Opportunities

Clinical rotations are at the heart of every PA program. The best programs offer access to a wide range of clinical placements across specialties such as:

  • Primary Care and Family Medicine
  • Emergency medicine
  • Surgery
  • Pediatrics
  • Behavioral health
  • Women’s health
  • Inpatient Medicine

Top-tier programs often partner with renowned hospitals and healthcare systems, allowing students to work alongside experienced clinicians and gain exposure to diverse patient populations. At MGH Institute, the last 12 months of the MPAS program is devoted to clinical clerkships, and students can take advantage of the school’s membership in New England’s largest healthcare organization, Mass General Brigham, which provides access to such renowned affiliate hospitals as Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and Spaulding Rehabilitation Network.

3. High PANCE Board Pass Rates

A strong PANCE pass rate is a direct indicator of how well a program prepares students. Look for schools that consistently report pass rates above the national average. This demonstrates both academic excellence and the program’s ability to guide students successfully through licensing.

4. Interprofessional Education (IPE)

Healthcare today is highly collaborative. Programs that prioritize interprofessional education give students opportunities to train alongside peers in nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and more. This team-based approach improves communication, enhances patient care, and mirrors real-world healthcare delivery.

5. Experienced and Accessible Faculty

Faculty are an integral part of your educational experience. Look for:

  • Clinically practicing faculty
  • Faculty who are leaders in PA education or healthcare advocacy
  • A low student-to-faculty ratio that ensures individualized mentorship

Faculty with diverse backgrounds can offer broader perspectives and support your learning in more meaningful ways.

6. Program Mission and Values

Not every program aligns with every student. Read through each school’s mission statement to ensure its values reflect your goals—whether that means a focus on primary care, equity in underserved communities, or innovation in clinical practice.

7. Career Support and Job Placement

How a program supports you after graduation matters. The best PA programs offer:

  • Career counseling
  • Interview preparation
  • Networking events
  • Partnerships with employers

Ask about graduate job placement rates and whether alumni go on to work in your areas of interest.

8. Facilities and Learning Resources

Modern labs, simulation centers, and access to up-to-date medical technology can significantly enhance your learning. Programs affiliated with major healthcare systems may also provide students with access to clinical data and research opportunities that smaller schools cannot.

9. Flexible Learning Options

While most PA programs are full-time, some may offer hybrid or extended track options that provide flexibility for working professionals or parents. Be sure to explore how the curriculum is structured and whether it suits your needs.

Choosing the Right PA School: A Decision That Shapes Your Career

The decision to become a PA-C is a life-changing one, and choosing the right program will shape your entire healthcare career. The best PA programs offer more than just a degree—they deliver the clinical training, mentorship, and support that help students succeed in real-world practice.

The MGH Institute of Health Professions—the only degree-granting affiliate of Mass General Brigham—offers a Master of Physician Assistant Studies program that emphasizes interprofessional education, hands-on clinical learning, and health equity. Students benefit from strong faculty mentorship and access to one of the nation’s leading healthcare systems, preparing them to become confident and compassionate providers.

While there is no single “best” PA school for everyone, using this checklist will help you make an informed, value driven choice. And if you're still wondering, “How long is PA school?”—remember that the investment of two to three years can lead to a lifelong career of purpose, leadership, and impact.