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Welcome to the University of Arizona's Physician Assistant Program! As the program director, I am thrilled to introduce you to our dynamic and innovative program, which is designed to cultivate the next generation of skilled and compassionate physician assistants.

Our Esteemed Faculty

Our faculty members are not only exceptional educators but also experienced practitioners who bring a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience to the classroom. They are dedicated to mentoring and guiding you through your academic journey, ensuring you are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the healthcare field.

Program Highlights

We are proud to offer a range of unique features and resources that set our program apart:

• Focus on Wellness: We prioritize the well-being of our students by integrating wellness initiatives into our curriculum. Our program supports a balanced approach to education, recognizing the importance of mental and physical health in achieving academic and professional success.
• Medical Spanish Courses: During the didactic year, students will enhance their communication skills through our specialized medical Spanish courses. These courses are designed to equip students with culturally sensitive tools and a focus on cultural humility, enabling them to engage effectively with diverse patient populations.
• State-of-the-Art Physical Exam Lab Space: Our program boasts cutting-edge physical exam lab spaces where students can practice and refine their clinical skills in a realistic and supportive environment.
• Collaborative Partnerships: We partner with the Arizona Simulation Technology and Education Center and the Interprofessional Clinical and Professional Skills Center at the University of Arizona. These partnerships provide our students with access to advanced simulation technology and interprofessional learning opportunities, enhancing their educational experience.
• Mission-Driven Education: Our mission is to develop skilled and compassionate physician assistants with a strong focus on primary care and rural health. This mission guides everything we do, ensuring our graduates are well-prepared to serve diverse communities.
• Spotlight on Joy: One of our core values is joy. We believe that fostering a joyful learning environment enhances the educational experience and promotes a positive, supportive community for both students and faculty.

The Physician Assistant Profession

The physician assistant profession is one of the most rewarding and dynamic careers in healthcare. According to the American Academy of Physician Associates, PAs are licensed clinicians who practice medicine in every specialty and setting. They are trusted, rigorously educated, and trained healthcare professionals dedicated to expanding access to care and transforming health and wellness through person-centered, team-based medical practice.

With more than 178,700 PAs practicing in the United States, the profession is expanding rapidly, with a projected growth rate of 26.5% from 2022 to 2032. PAs engage in over 500 million patient interactions each year, making significant contributions to improving patient outcomes and healthcare delivery. The versatility of the PA role allows for a broad scope of practice, including conducting patient interviews, performing physical exams, diagnosing, and treating illnesses, and prescribing medications.

Join Us

We invite you to explore our program further and consider joining our community of dedicated learners and professionals. Together, we can make a profound impact on the health and well-being of our communities.

Warm regards,

MJ Ellis, MPAS, PA-C, DFAAPA
Program Director
Associate Clinical Professor
University of Arizona Physician Assistant Program