To become a physician assistant (PA) in Georgia (GA) you will need to first attend an accredited PA school. An accredited PA school is a recognized institution that meets specific educational standards and requirements for PA training.
Georgia also requires physician assistants to obtain certification and licensing in order to work there.
Listed below are the top accredited physician assistant schools in Georgia.
Accredited PA Schools Georgia
As a first step to becoming a physician assistant in Georgia, you must first graduate from a PA program accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA). These programs typically lead to a master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) or a similar.
There are 6 schools in Georgia which are ARC-accredited. 4 of these schools are fully accredited and 2 are currently on probationary and/or provisional accreditation (indicated with an asterisk*)
The table below provides a summary whilst more detailed information on the top fully accredited schools is provided further down the page.
| School | City | ARC-PA | PAEA | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Augusta University | Augusta | Yes | Yes | Program Page |
| Emory University | Atlanta | Yes | Yes | Program Page |
| Mercer University | Macon | Yes | Yes | Program Page |
| South University in Savannah | Savannah | Yes | Yes | Program Page |
| Brenau University | Gainesville | Yes* | Yes | Program Page |
| Morehouse School of Medicine | Atlanta | 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.
Augusta University – Augusta
- 1120 15th St, Augusta, GA 30912, United States
- +1 706-721-0211
Augusta University, located in Augusta, Georgia, is a thriving public institution with approximately 8,961 students. The university offers a Physician Assistant (PA) program that begins in May and spans 27 months, preparing students for a rewarding healthcare career. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 on all undergraduate courses, with a specific emphasis on math and science.
The program’s admission is competitive, with an average GRE score of 307/308 and just 44 students admitted per class. For those seeking a place to stay, Augusta University provides on-site accommodation for up to 1,200 residents, ensuring a convenient living experience for its students.
The program is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA).
Regarding tuition and fees, for in-state students, the cost for the PA program is approximately $50,000 per annum, making it a competitive option for those looking to pursue their physician assistant career at an affordable rate.
Emory University – Atlanta
- 201 Dowman Dr, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
- +1 404-727-6123
Emory University, situated in Atlanta, Georgia, is a renowned private university with around 15,000 students.
The university’s Physician Assistant program offers 54 spots each year and received a staggering 1800 applicants in 2022, highlighting its popularity. The program spans 28 months and is consistently ranked as one of the top programs in the nation, holding the 4th position in 2024. The program is accredited by the ARC-PA, further assuring the quality of education.
Emory’s urban campus provides a vibrant setting for students, and the university’s excellent reputation makes it an attractive choice for aspiring physician assistants. However, it’s important to note that tuition and fees alone for the PA program at Emory University total $118,236, making it a financial investment for those considering this prestigious institution. Despite the cost, Emory’s top-tier education and reputation in the field make it an appealing option for those who can meet the financial requirements.
Mercer University – Macon
- 1501 Mercer University Dr, Macon, GA 31207, United States
- +1 800-637-2378
Mercer University, a private institution with over 8,900 students, offers a competitive Physician Assistant program that admits 70 students annually. The program spans 28 months, starting each year in the spring. Mercer emphasizes the importance of academic qualifications, with detailed admission requirements available on their website.
Students considering Mercer should be prepared for a total estimated cost of $98,800, including fees and textbooks. While on-site accommodation is available, it is primarily prioritized for first-, second-, and third-year students.
For assistance with financial planning and queries relating to financial aid at Mercer visit: https://financialaid.mercer.edu/
South University – Savannah
- 709 Mall Blvd, Savannah, GA 31406, United States
- +1 912-201-8000
South University, a smaller institution with fewer than 1,000 students, offers a 27-month Physician Assistant program in Savannah, Georgia. Unlike some other institutions, South University does not provide on-site accommodation for its students.
Aspiring PAs should be aware that the total cost of the PA program at South University, including fees and textbooks, is approximately $101,000. This program offers a comprehensive education but comes at a higher financial investment compared to some other options.
Georgia PA Certification and Licensing
After graduation, you must pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). PAs can take the PANCE at various testing centers, and exam dates are available throughout the year. Once you have achieved certification it is required by Georgia law that you obtain a license to work as a Physician Assistant there.
Licensure Requirements
The scope of practice for physician assistants varies from state to state and therefore so do licensing requirements.
In Georgia, the Composite State Medical Board approves the job descriptions for PAs and supervising physicians, with both signing them. Supervising physicians delegate tasks to PA’s within their scope of practice and based on the job description. PAs can prescribe medications and Schedule III – V controlled substances, but not Schedule II. They therefore do not require an additional Controlled Substance License.
You can contact the Medical Board directly with queries relating to licensing and scope of practice using the contact details below:
Address: 2 Peachtree Street NW, 36th floor, Atlanta, GA 30303-3465
Phone: (404) 656-3913
Website: https://medicalboard.georgia.gov
Physician Assistant Salary and Employment Georgia
In 2024, Georgia had 4,950 employed physician assistants with an average salary of $113,260, translating to an hourly wage of $54.45. This figure is approximately 10.60% below the national average, which stands at $125,270.
Over the 5 years since 2018 PA salaries in Georgia have increased 10% and employment has increased by a huge 43%.
Going forward a career as a physician assistant offers great income potential and favorable job prospects, Bureau for Labor Statistics with a projected growth rate of 27% between 2022 and 2032. This growth rate is significantly higher than the average across all other careers.
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