In 2024, the initial step towards becoming a Physician Assistant (PA) in Kansas (KS) involves graduating from an accredited Physician Assistant program. Accreditation is crucial as it ensures that schools and programs adhere to stringent educational standards. PA schools in Kansas are accredited by the ARC-PA.
Upon graduation, aspiring PAs must pass national certification exams successfully and proceed to apply for a state license. With a valid license, PAs become eligible to practice medicine under the supervision of a licensed physician, gaining the opportunity to contribute to healthcare in various settings across the state.
Listed below are the top accredited Physician Assistant Schools in Kansas for 2024.
Top PA Schools in Kansas – 2024
There are currently just 2 accredited PA programs in Kansas – 1 of which is fully accredited and 1 which is on probationary/provisional accreditation*.
| School | City | ARC-PA | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wichita State University | Wichita | Yes | Program Page |
| Kansas State University | Manhattan | Yes* | Program Page |
Accredited PA programs have rigorous admissions requirements and typically include a bachelor’s degree, mandatory prerequisite science courses, and a specified minimum of healthcare-related work experience.
Please note: Many schools utilize the CASPA application system. To ensure timely submission, we recommend that you check application deadlines directly through the CASPA website.
Wichita State University, Wichita
- Wichita State University 1845 Fairmount St Wichita, KS 67260
- (316) 978-3456
Wichita State University, located in Wichita, Kansas, is a public university with Christian affiliations. The school has over 15,300 students. The urban setting of the campus provides a vibrant atmosphere for both learning and extracurricular activities. WSU can also offer on-campus accommodation options,
The ARC-PA accredited Physician Assistant program at Wichita State admits 48 new students each year. The program will take 26 months to complete and award graduates a Master of Physician Associate (MPA) degree. The university’s commitment to accredited PA education, along with the program’s rigorous curriculum, ensures that students receive comprehensive training in preparation for their role as future healthcare providers.
Applications should be submitted through CASPA, with an application deadline of around September 1st.
The total cost of tuition and fees for the PA program at WSU total over $60,000.
Kansas PA Certification and License Requirements
After graduating from a PA program in Kansas, aspiring PAs must sit the Physician Assistant National Certification Exams. These exams are administered by the NCCPA. Certification is a prerequisite for state licensing, ensuring that PAs possess the necessary knowledge and skills. Candidates can take these exams at designated Pearson Vue testing centers.
Licensing
Once you have graduated from an accredited program it is required by Kansas law that you obtain a license to work as a Physician Assistant there. Licensing requirements and PA scope of practice vary from state to state.
In Kansas, the State Board of Healing Arts defines physician supervision for PAs, considering their capabilities, training, and patient needs. PAs perform only delegated medical services that align with the supervising physician’s education and experience. Physicians specify the medications PAs can prescribe through a written agreement. Additionally, PAs in Kansas can prescribe, administer, dispense, and procure Schedule II-V drugs and controlled substances. They do not need an additional Controlled Substances License to do so.
You can contact the Board directly using the contact details below:
Address: 800 SW Jackson, Lower Level, Suite A, Topeka, KS 66612
Phone: (785) 296-7413
Website: http://www.ksbha.org/professions/PA.shtml
PA Salary and Employment in Kansas
In 2024, there were 870 persons employed as Physician Assistants in Kansas with an average salary of $114,470. This represents an hourly wage of $55.04 and is 9.43% below the national average salary of $125,270.
In Kansas, from 2018 to 2022, the average salary for Physician Assistants increased by $9,750, reflecting a 9% rise. However, during the same period, employment declined by 170, marking a 16% decrease.
Looking ahead, the Bureau for Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a 27% growth in employment for physician assistants between 2022 and 2032, indicating potential opportunities for job expansion in the coming decade despite the recent decline in employment.