To become a physician assistant in Colorado (CO), also referred to as a PA, you must obtain a master’s degree from an accredited school.
On this page you’ll find information on the steps you need to take to kick start your journey towards becoming a PA – updated for 2023 and 2024. From prerequisites and application procedures to insights into the top PA schools in Colorado. Once you’ve completed your education you will also be required to obtain national certification and state licensure before you can work as a PA in Colorado.
Top Accredited PA Schools Colorado
Selecting an ARC-PA in Colorado is of great importance for aspiring physician assistants. Opting for an accredited institution ensures a rigorous curriculum, high educational standards, and comprehensive training, all vital for PA students. Graduating from an accredited program not only enhances career prospects but also guarantees eligibility for certification and licensure
In Colorado, there are 4 accredited PA schools, with 3 enjoying full accreditation and 1 operating under provisional or probationary accreditation, denoted by an asterisk (*).
| School | City | ARC-PA | PAEA | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red Rocks Community College | Lakewood | Yes | Yes | Program Page |
| Rocky Vista University | Parker | Yes | Yes | Program Page |
| University of Colorado | Aurora | Yes | Yes | Program Page |
| Colorado Mesa University | Grand Junction | Yes* | Yes | Program Page |
Please note: The majority of schools use the CASPA application system so please double check application deadlines on the CASPA website.
Red Rocks Community College, Lakewood
- Address: 10280 West 55th Avenue, Arvada, Colorado 80002
- Phone: 303.914.6048
- Email: pa.program@rrcc.edu
Red Rocks Community College offers a public institution with a total enrollment of 6,029 students in 2023. While the college doesn’t provide on-campus accommodation, it hosts a well-established Physician Assistant (PA) program. This rigorous 27-month program admits 32 students per year and awards graduates a Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS). The program is fully accredited by ARC-PA until March 2027.
For in-state students, the total tuition and fees for the MPAS program are approximately $68,556. The CASPA application deadline typically falls on the 1st of September. To apply, applicants must meet all program requirements, including prerequisite coursework, a Bachelor’s degree, and work experience within the last 5 years.
For more information about the Red Rocks Community College Physician Assistant Program, visit their program page at https://www.rrcc.edu/physician-assistant.
If you aspire to pursue a career as a physician assistant, this program provides a comprehensive education in a reputable institution.
Rocky Vista University, Parker
- 8401 South Chambers Road Englewood, CO 80112
- (303) 373-2008
Rocky Vista University, located in Parker, is a private institution with a student body of 1531, the campus offers on-campus accommodation. The Physician Assistant Program at RVU is fully accredited by ARC-PA. The 27-month program boasts a small class size of 36, providing an intimate learning environment. Graduates earn a Master of Physician Assistant Studies.
Tuition and fees for the PA Program exceed $117k. Prospective students can apply through CASPA, with a deadline of January 1st.
University of Colorado, Aurora
- 13001 East 17th Place Room E7019 Mail Stop F543 Aurora, CO 80045
- (303) 724-7963
The University of Colorado, located in Aurora, is a public institution with a substantial student body of 36,780. On-campus accommodation is available for students.
The Physician Assistant Program at the University of Colorado is fully accredited by ARC-PA. This 27-month program boasts a class size of 44, ensuring a focused and collaborative learning experience. Graduates earn a Master of Physician Assistant Studies, preparing them for a healthcare career.
Tuition and fees for the PA Program vary, with over $68k for residents and over $146k for non-residents. Interested applicants can submit their applications through CASPA, with a deadline of September 1st.
Colorado PA Certification and License Requirements
After graduation from an accredited PA program, aspiring physician assistants in Colorado must take the PANCE administered by the (NCCPA). PANCE exams are typically available year-round, and candidates can schedule them at designated testing centers. Certification is a prerequisite for obtaining a state license to practice as a PA in Colorado, ensuring that healthcare providers meet nationally recognized standards of competence before they begin their professional careers.
Licensure
The scope of practice for physician assistants varies from state to state and therefore so do licensing requirements.
In Colorado supervision rules for all PAs, new and experienced, are established by the Colorado Medical Board. Supervising physicians delegate tasks based on the PA’s level of expertise and skills. Under strict physician supervision and delegation PAs in Colorado can prescribe and dispense drugs and controlled substances including Schedule II drugs. They do not require a controlled substances license.
You can contact the Colorado Medical Board directly with queries relating to the scope of practice and licensing using the contact details below:
Address: Division of Professions and Occupations, 1560 Broadway, Suite 1350, Denver, CO 80202
Phone: (303) 894-7800
Website: https://dpo.colorado.gov/PALicensingRequirements
Physician Assistant Salary and Job Outlook in Colorado
| Average Salary | $122,330 |
| Hourly Wage | $58.81 |
| Compared to the National Average | 2.4% Below |
| Top 10% of Earners | $164,480 |
| Bottom 10% of Earners | $91,040 |
| Number Employed | 2,770 |
In 2024, Colorado employed 2,770 physician assistants with an average salary of $122,330, translating to an hourly wage of $58.81. This salary is approximately 2.40% below the national average of $125,270. Notably, the top 10% of physician assistants in the state earned an average of $164,480, while the bottom 10% earned an average of $91,040.
Between 2018 and 2022, in Colorado, the average salary for Physician Assistants increased by $19,560, reflecting a notable percentage change of 19%. However, during the same period, employment figures experienced a decline, with a reduction of 420 jobs, marking a 13% decrease.
Looking ahead, the Bureau for Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts substantial growth for this profession, with a projected 27% increase in employment from 2022 to 2032, indicating a promising outlook for those pursuing careers as physician assistants in Colorado.