Palm Beach Atlantic University will welcome the first cohort of students for its Master of Medical Science in Physician Associate Medicine program in October. The program received provisional accreditation in June from the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant.
Provisional accreditation is a temporary status given to a new program that hasn’t yet enrolled students. It means the program’s plans and resources are strong enough to meet national standards if carried out as proposed.
The new Physician Associate Medicine Program is part of Palm Beach Atlantic University’s strategic efforts to help healthcare professionals across the United States. According to the outlook from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field is expected to grow by 28 percent between 2023 to 2033. According to experts, this demand is being driven by an aging population and increased emphasis on preventive care. The outlook for demand in the PA field is at a significantly faster rate than the average for all occupations, with starting salaries above $130,000.
“This program reflects PBA’s commitment to meeting growing industry needs and integrating faith and learning,” said Palm Beach Atlantic President Dr. Debra A. Schwinn, who was instrumental in developing the program and will serve as a faculty member. “Our goal is to prepare students to excel clinically and serve patients with compassion and integrity.”
The 28-month program comprises 16 months of didactic instruction, followed by 12 months of clinical rotations.
“By incorporating community medicine requirements, our students will have opportunities to serve in mobile health units, domestic violence shelters and HIV clinics, embodying Christ-centered care in their practice,” added Dr. Phil Tobin, dean of the School of Health Professions.
The first cohort of students will include 56 students. Applications are already open for the second cohort of students, which will begin in August 2026. This cohort will also accept 56 students. To learn more, visit www.pba.edu/academics/schools/school-of-health-professions.
Palm Beach Atlantic University, founded in 1968, is a private, Christian university, offering 100 different programs and pathways. For more info., visit www.pba.edu.
