To become a Physician Assistant, also referred to as a PA in Arkansas (AR) you must obtain a master’s degree from an accredited school. All States also require Physician Assistants to obtain certification and to become licensed.
Listed below are the top accredited Physician Assistant Schools in, or near to, Arkansas.
Accredited PA Schools in Arkansas for 2023-2024
Selecting an ARC-PA-accredited school in Arkansas is of paramount importance for aspiring Physician Assistants. Accreditation by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) ensures that a program meets rigorous educational standards, providing students with a high-quality and standardized curriculum.
In Arkansas, there are currently 2 accredited PA schools, both meeting these stringent criteria. Opting for an accredited institution not only assures a comprehensive and reputable education but also paves the way for successful licensure and professional advancement.
| School | City | ARC-PA | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harding University | Searcy | Yes | Program Page |
| University of Arkansas | Fayetteville | Yes | Program Page |
It’s important to note that many institutions utilize the CASPA application process, and prospective students should verify application deadlines through the CASPA website to ensure timely submission.
University of Arkansas, Fayetteville
- Fayetteville, AR 72701, United States
- +1 479-575-2000
The University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, a public institution, hosts over 32,000 students on its campus. With on-campus accommodation available, the university provides a comprehensive environment for education.
The Physician Assistant Program at this university is fully accredited by ARC-PA. The program spans 28 months, admitting 40 students per class, culminating in a Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree.
For residents, tuition and fees total over $66,000, while non-residents incur costs of $93,000. Aspiring candidates can utilize CASPA for application submission, with a deadline of around November 1st. This program equips students with the necessary skills for a career as a certified Physician Assistant.
Harding University, Searcy
- College of Allied Health 915 E. Market Ave. Searcy, AR 72149
- (501) 279-5520
Harding University in Searcy, a private Christian university with over 4,600 students, offers a 28-month Physician Assistant (PA) program. Located on a quiet, vibrant campus, this program is accredited by ARC-PA. While campus accommodation is available, it’s primarily for undergraduates.
Upon completion, students earn a Master of Science degree (M.S.) in Physician Assistant Studies. To apply, prospective students can use CASPA, with an application deadline of around November 1st.
Please note that the PA program at Harding University is relatively costly, with tuition and fees exceeding $120,000. Aspiring PAs should explore admissions requirements on the university’s website for specific details on prerequisites and other criteria.
Arkansas PA Certification and Licensing Requirements
After graduation from an accredited PA program, aspiring PAs in Arkansas must take the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). To be eligible, candidates must have completed an accredited program. PANCE assesses their medical knowledge and skills. Upon passing, they earn the PA-C (Physician Assistant-Certified) credential. Certification is a prerequisite for obtaining state licensure, as it ensures that PAs meet national standards of competence. Exams are offered year-round at Pearson VUE test centers, providing flexibility for candidates to choose a convenient date and location.
Licensing
Once you have graduated from an accredited program it is required by Arkansas law that you obtain a license to work as a Physician Assistant there. The scope of practice for physician assistants varies from state to state and therefore so do licensing requirements.
PAs in Arkansas can perform tasks in any setting as long as their supervising physician approves. They can prescribe medications and controlled substances within their scope under physician supervision and without the requirement for an additional controlled substance license.
The State Medical Board governs the licensing of Physician Assistants in Arkansas. You can contact the Board directly using the contact details below:
Address: 1401 West Capitol Ave., Suite 340, Little Rock, AR 72201-2936
Phone: (501) 296-1802
Website: http://www.armedicalboard.org
Physician Assistant Salary in Arkansas
According to the BLS, in 2024, there were 840 persons employed as Physician Assistants in Arkansas with an average salary of $68,270. This represents an hourly wage of $32.82 and is 83.49% below the national average of $125,270.
Between 2018 and 2022, Arkansas saw a notable decrease in the average salary for Physician Assistants, declining by $31,010 or 31%. In terms of employment, there was a significant increase of 310 positions, reflecting a 58% growth.
Looking ahead, the Bureau for Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a substantial 27% employment growth for physician assistants between 2022 and 2032, indicating promising prospects in the field in the coming decade.