Is the CMU Program accredited?
Yes, we are fully accredited.

Am I eligible to take the National Certification Examination for PAs after completing your program?
Yes, the NCCPA permits all graduates of accredited programs to take the examination.

What type and how much direct health care experience do I need?
We require a minimum of 100 hours of hands-on, direct patient care experience.  Shadowing a PA or physician, clerical work, transporting patients, charting, etc., are not acceptable. Counseling activities in psychology or social work may be acceptable; check with Admissions & Enrollment Mangement in the College of Health Professions.

Should I apply to many programs?
Yes, admission to PA schools is very competitive. Apply to as many programs as you meet the prerequisites for, and can afford. Try to apply to all the state-funded programs in Michigan, a few private programs, and new programs which have smaller applicant pools.

Do you require students to supply their own clinical sites or preceptors?
No.

Is there a PA web site?
Yes, http://www.aapa.org contains detailed physician assistant information.

How can I find out if my course meets your prerequisite for XYZ?
Contact the College of Health Professions, Admissions & Enrollment Management at (989) 774-1730, or fax a course description and syllabus from your institution to (989) 774-2223 (include a return fax and telephone number).

I am confused about your Chemistry requirements.
We require the following chemistry courses: inorganic or general chemistry (must include a lab), at least one organic chemistry course (must include a lab), and at least one biochemistry course.

How recent do my prerequisite courses need to be?
Prerequisites must have been taken within six years at the time of application.

How can I find PAs in Michigan to talk to?
Call the Michigan Academy of Physician Assistants at (877) YES-MAPA and ask for an applications form. If you join as an affiliate member, you can receive a Resource Directory with information such as names and telephone numbers of PAs in your area, etc.

Can PAs prescribe medication?
Yes, in most states (including Michigan), they can prescribe with delegated authority.

Who can provide me with individual admissions counseling?
The College of Health Professions, Admissions & Enrollment Management offers individual appointments for admissions counseling. Office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Contact us at (989) 774-1730 or toll-free at (866) 744-0010 to schedule an appointment. You can also email us at chpadmit@cmich.edu for further information.

Do you recommend any books that would help me get into PA school?
There are two books we find helpful:
Sherer, Erin L., MPAS, PA-C, RD. (2008). An Applicant's Guide to Physician Assistant School and Practice. Available on www.amazon.com.
Andrew J. Rodican, PA-C. (1998). Getting into the PA School of your Choice. Available on www.amazon.com.