How To Become a Physician Assistant (PA) in Maryland (MD)
To embark on a career as a Physician Assistant (PA), one must first complete an accredited PA program. Typically spanning two years, this commitment involves meeting prerequisites, including holding a bachelor’s degree and acquiring relevant work experience.
Upon graduation, it is imperative to successfully pass the national certification exam and obtain state licensure for practice. In Maryland, maintaining a PA career necessitates ongoing education and the timely renewal of licensure. These steps are essential for ensuring continued competence and compliance with regulatory standards in the field of Physician Assistance.
Listed below are the top accredited Physician Assistant Schools in, or near to, Maryland.
Accredited PA Schools in Maryland 2024
Choosing an Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) school in Maryland ensures a quality PA education and paves the way for certification. Accreditation validates program excellence, preparing students for successful careers.
In Maryland, 5 PA schools exist, – 2 having full accreditation and 3 currently holding provisional or probationary status (indicated by an asterisk *).
| School | City | ARC-PA | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
| Towson University CCBC | Baltimore | Yes | Program Page |
| University of Maryland Baltimore | Baltimore | Yes | Program Page |
| University of Maryland Eastern Shore | Princess Anne | Yes* | Program Page |
| Frostburg State University | Frostburg | Yes* | Program Page |
| Notre Dame of Maryland University | Baltimore | Yes* | Program Page |
The majority of institutions employ the CASPA online application process. Therefore, it is essential to review the application deadlines available on the CASPA website.
Towson University CCBC, Baltimore
- Towson University CCBC 8000 York Road Baltimore, MD 21252
- (410) 704-2119
Situated in Baltimore, Towson University CCBC is a public institution. The campus accommodates approximately 20,856 students and provides on-campus housing for those seeking convenience.
The Physician Assistant program at Towson University CCBC is fully accredited by ARC-PA and has a duration of 26 months. This program offers comprehensive education, leading to the award of a Master of Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies upon completion. Prospective students can apply through CASPA, with an application deadline typically set around August 1st.
In terms of costs, in-state students should anticipate tuition and fees exceeding $65,000, while out-of-state students will face expenses exceeding $90,000.
University of Maryland Baltimore, Baltimore
- University of Maryland School of Medicine 655 West Baltimore Street Baltimore, MD 21201
- (410) 706-3492
Situated in Baltimore, the University of Maryland Baltimore is a public institution with a student population of 7,244. On-campus accommodation is available for added convenience.
The Physician Assistant program, fully accredited by ARC-PA, is a 24-month program. Graduates earn a Master of Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies upon completion. Prospective students can apply through CASPA, with an application deadline typically set around September 1st.
In terms of total costs, in-state students should budget for tuition and fees exceeding $65,000, while out-of-state students may incur expenses surpassing $90,000.
Certification and Licensing Requirements
After completing a PA program in Maryland, aspiring PAs must take and pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam a requisite for state licensure. This exam ensures competence in the field.
National certification is administered by various organizations, and you can typically take these exams at designated testing centers, including Prometric and Pearson VUE. Once certified, you become eligible to apply for a state license, allowing you to practice as a Physician Assistant in Maryland, maintaining public safety and healthcare standards.
Licensure and Scope of Practice
Once you have obtained certification it is required by Maryland 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 Maryland are authorized to provide patient services under continuous supervision by physicians. PAs and physicians must establish a delegation agreement that specifies the authorized delegated services which must align with the PA’s education and the physician’s scope of practice. PAs can be granted the authority to prescribe medications including Schedule II-V drugs, through their delegation agreement. Additionally, PAs in Maryland must obtain an additional Controlled Substance License for this purpose.
The Maryland Board of Physicians governs the licensing of Physician Assistants in Maryland. You can contact the Board directly using the contact details below:
Address: 4201 Patterson Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21215
Phone: (800) 492-6836
Website: https://www.mbp.state.md.us/licensure_ahapp_pa.aspx
PA Salary and Job Outlook in Maryland
In 2024, there were 3,720 individuals employed as Physician Assistants in Maryland, with an average salary of $113,340. This translates to an hourly wage of $54.49, marking a 10.53% difference below the national average of $125,270.
Between 2018 and 2022, Maryland’s Physician Assistants experienced a salary increase of $5,160, marking a 5% growth. In terms of employment, the sector saw a substantial growth of 680 positions, amounting to a 22% increase over five years.
Looking forward, the Bureau for Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a significant 27% employment growth for physician assistants between 2022 and 2032.