Are you considering pursuing a career as a physician assistant (PA)? If so, Randolph Macon College’s Physician Assistant Program (PA Program) is an excellent choice. Here’s everything you need to know about this highly respected program.

About Randolph Macon College
With a rich history dating back to 1830, Randolph Macon College is a private liberal arts college located in Ashland, Virginia. The college is known for its rigorous academics, close-knit community, and commitment to social responsibility.
Randolph Macon PA Program Overview
Randolph Macon’s PA Program is a 27-month, full-time graduate program that prepares students to become highly skilled PAs. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA), ensuring that it meets the highest standards of excellence.
Curriculum:
The PA Program curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the medical field. Students take courses in a wide range of subjects, including:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Medicine
- Surgery
- Psychiatry
- Emergency Medicine
- Patient Assessment and Management
Clinical Rotations:
Clinical rotations are an integral part of the PA Program. Students complete a total of 2,000 hours of clinical training in various settings, including:
- Internal Medicine
- Pediatrics
- Surgery
- Ob/Gyn
- Emergency Medicine
- Family Medicine
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Randolph Macon PA Program is highly competitive. Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
- Have a minimum GPA of 3.0
- Complete at least 500 hours of healthcare experience
- Submit a personal statement and letters of recommendation
- Pass a standardized test (GRE or MCAT)
Why Choose Randolph Macon?
There are many reasons to choose Randolph Macon’s PA Program, including:
- Rigorous curriculum: The program provides a thorough and up-to-date education in the medical field.
- Experienced faculty: The program is taught by a team of experienced PAs and physicians who are dedicated to training future healthcare professionals.
- Clinical rotations: Randolph Macon’s close relationships with local hospitals and clinics provide students with access to a wide range of clinical experiences.
- Close-knit community: The PA Program is intentionally small, creating a sense of community and support among students.
- Record of success: Randolph Macon’s PA Program has a high success rate on the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANRE).
Benefits of a PA Education
Becoming a PA offers numerous benefits, including:
- High demand: PAs are in high demand due to the growing shortage of physicians.
- Flexible career: PAs can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
- Patient care: PAs play a vital role in providing patient care, working closely with physicians to diagnose and treat medical conditions.
- Job satisfaction: PAs report high levels of job satisfaction, citing the opportunity to make a difference in patients’ lives as a major motivator.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When applying to PA programs, it is important to avoid common mistakes such as:
- Not having enough healthcare experience: Healthcare experience is essential for understanding the realities of working in the medical field.
- Skipping the GRE or MCAT: The GRE or MCAT is an important part of the application process, and a low score can hurt your chances of acceptance.
- Not submitting a strong personal statement: The personal statement is your chance to showcase your passion for medicine and provide admissions committees with a personal connection.
- Not networking with PAs: Building relationships with PAs can provide valuable insights into the profession and help you get your foot in the door.
Conclusion
The Randolph Macon PA Program is a top-notch program that will prepare you for a successful career as a physician assistant. If you are passionate about medicine and eager to make a difference in patients’ lives, this program is an excellent choice.
1. What is the cost of the PA Program?
The cost of the PA Program for the 2023-2025 academic years is approximately $100,000.
2. What is the average GPA of accepted students?
The average GPA of accepted students is 3.5.
3. How many students are accepted into the PA Program each year?
The PA Program accepts approximately 25 students each year.
4. What are the employment rates for graduates of the PA Program?
Nearly 100% of graduates of the PA Program are employed within six months of graduation.
Tables
1. Acceptance Rates of Randolph Macon PA Program
Year | Number of Applicants | Number Accepted | Acceptance Rate |
---|---|---|---|
2021 | 750 | 25 | 3.33% |
2022 | 800 | 26 | 3.25% |
2023 | 850 | 27 | 3.18% |
2. Clinical Rotations for Randolph Macon PA Program
Rotation | Duration | Setting |
---|---|---|
Internal Medicine | 6 weeks | Hospital |
Pediatrics | 6 weeks | Clinic |
Surgery | 8 weeks | Hospital |
Ob/Gyn | 6 weeks | Clinic |
Emergency Medicine | 6 weeks | Hospital |
Family Medicine | 6 weeks | Clinic |
3. Average Salary of PAs in the United States
Year | Salary |
---|---|
2021 | $112,260 |
2022 | $115,800 |
2023 (Projected) | $119,500 |
4. Employment Rates for Graduates of Randolph Macon PA Program
Year | Employment Rate |
---|---|
2021 | 98% |
2022 | 99% |
2023 (Projected) | 100% |