#United States #Health Education #Emmitsburg #Physician Assistant #Mount St. Mary's

Mount St. Mary's University Launches New Physician Assistant Program

In a significant move to address the healthcare provider shortage in Maryland, Mount St. Mary's University has announced its new Physician Assistant (PA) program, which has received provisional accreditation from the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA). The program is scheduled to welcome its first cohort of students in January 2026, a development that has been in the works for several years.

Mary Jackson, the program director, expressed her excitement about this milestone, emphasizing the program's innovative approach to education combined with a strong emphasis on empathy. "Our PA program is dedicated to preparing exceptional clinical professionals who are equally committed to improving patient outcomes through compassionate care. We believe that a strong foundation in rigorous medical training paired with a culture of service will cultivate future leaders in healthcare," she stated.

Mount St. Mary's President, Gerard J. Joyce, Ph.D., highlighted the institution's mission to provide a values-based education that aligns with the Catholic Intellectual Tradition. The curriculum is designed not only to equip students with medical knowledge but also to instill ethical practices and a sense of community service, particularly in underserved areas.

Program Details and Application Process

Application for the 42 available seats in the first cohort opened on April 29 and will be accepting submissions until August 1. Interested candidates can find detailed admission requirements on the university’s official program website. This program is especially timely, as the PA profession is ranked as one of the top healthcare jobs in America, with a projected growth rate of 28% between 2023 and 2033, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

As healthcare services in Maryland are expected to require a 23% increase in primary care providers by 2033, the PA program aims to alleviate this shortage while enhancing access to essential medical services. Students enrolled in the program will gain diverse clinical experience during their studies, encompassing multiple specialties such as internal medicine, pediatrics, and surgery.

The curriculum features two unique elements, emphasizing clinician well-being and service to the community. The Center for Clinician Well-Being is integral to the program, designed to equip students with resilience against burnout, thereby ensuring their long-term success in the healthcare field. Moreover, the Care for America program, developed in partnership with the Daughters of Charity, prioritizes care for underserved populations, fostering a spirit of advocacy through hands-on learning experiences and health equity courses.

A Comprehensive Education Experience

Over the span of the program, students engage in ten immersive clinical rotations in various fields including behavioral health, women's health, and electives tailored to apply training in real-world settings. Notably, through the capstone course, students will not only review essential topics but also prepare for the Physician Assistant National Certification Examination.

Dean Christine McCauslin of the School of Health Professions recognized the hard work of the faculty in developing an outstanding educational program that prioritizes both clinical excellence and compassion. "This provisional accreditation affirms our commitment to creating a sustainable and effective learning environment for future PA students. Those who complete the program will be well-equipped to provide outstanding care while maintaining their own well-being," she stated.

About Mount St. Mary's University

Founded in 1808, Mount St. Mary's University is a private Catholic institution located in the scenic Catoctin Mountains near Emmitsburg, Maryland. The university offers a wide array of programs, fostering a well-rounded educational experience built on the principles of faith, community, and academic excellence. With more than 80 majors spanning various fields, the Mount aims to cultivate knowledgeable and morally grounded leaders for the future.

As the demand for healthcare professionals continues to grow, Mount St. Mary's University's new PA program stands poised to make a significant impact on the healthcare landscape, enhancing both access and quality of care for Maryland's residents.