Introduction
Alvernia University’s Physician Assistant (PA) Program is a highly respected program that prepares students to excel in the challenging field of medicine. With a focus on providing exceptional healthcare to underserved populations, the program offers a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes clinical experience, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a commitment to service.
Curriculum
The Alvernia University PA Program is a 27-month, full-time program that consists of:
- Didactic Phase (12 months): Classroom-based instruction in medical sciences, diagnostic skills, and patient management
- Clinical Phase (15 months): Rotations in a variety of clinical settings, including primary care, internal medicine, pediatrics, and surgery
Clinical Rotations
Students in the Alvernia PA Program complete 1,800 clinical hours in over 30 different clinical sites. These rotations provide ample opportunities to gain hands-on experience in:
- Patient assessment and diagnosis
- Prescribing medication and providing treatment
- Collaborating with physicians and other healthcare professionals
- Providing patient education and counseling
Faculty and Staff
Alvernia University’s PA Program faculty and staff are highly experienced and dedicated to providing students with the best possible education. The faculty includes:
- Physicians who are experts in their respective fields
- PA educators with extensive clinical experience
- Research scientists who are actively engaged in advancing the field of medicine
Admissions
The Alvernia PA Program is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of approximately 7%. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a strong foundation in science and math. They must also have at least 2,000 hours of patient care experience.
Program Outcomes
Graduates of the Alvernia PA Program are highly sought-after by employers throughout the country. The program consistently achieves a 100% pass rate on the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE). Graduates go on to successful careers in various medical settings, including hospitals, clinics, urgent care centers, and private practices.
Funding and Financial Aid
Alvernia University offers a variety of financial aid options to assist students in paying for their education. These options include:
- Scholarships
- Grants
- Loans
- Work-study programs
Contact Information
For more information about Alvernia University’s Physician Assistant Program, please contact:
Alvernia University
Physician Assistant Program
400 St. Bernardine Street
Reading, PA 19607
(610) 796-8447
[email protected]
Additional Information
- The Alvernia PA Program is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA).
- The program is a member of the American Association of Physician Assistants (AAPA).
- Alvernia University is a Catholic Franciscan institution that emphasizes values of compassion, service, and integrity.
- The PA profession is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 31% increase in employment from 2019 to 2029.
How to Apply
Applications for the Alvernia PA Program are accepted through the Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA). The application deadline is January 31st.
Tips for Applicants
To increase your chances of admission to the Alvernia PA Program, consider the following tips:
- Maintain a high GPA in your undergraduate coursework.
- Gain as much patient care experience as possible, including both clinical and volunteer work.
- Prepare thoroughly for the CASPA application and essay questions.
- Seek out letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to your academic abilities, work ethic, and compassion for others.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When applying to the Alvernia PA Program, avoid the following common mistakes:
- Not submitting a complete application
- Submitting a poorly written personal statement or essay questions
- Not having enough patient care experience
- Not taking the GRE or PANCE properly
- Not following the instructions on the CASPA website
Conclusion
Alvernia University’s Physician Assistant Program is a top-notch program that prepares students for a rewarding career in healthcare. With its rigorous curriculum, experienced faculty, and commitment to service, the program provides students with the knowledge, skills, and experience they need to make a positive impact on the lives of others.