To become a Physician Assistant (PA) in New Jersey (NJ) you must complete an accredited PA program, which usually spans two years. Prerequisites typically include a bachelor’s degree and relevant work experience.
After program completion, you’ll need to pass a national certification exam and secure state licensure to practice. It’s crucial to note that ongoing education and license renewal are essential to maintain your PA career in New Jersey.
Listed below are the top accredited physician assistant schools in New Jersey.
Accredited PA Schools in NJ
Selecting an ARC-PA-accredited school in New Jersey is crucial for both the quality of education and future certification. Accreditation ensures that the program meets specific standards, preparing students for national certification.
New Jersey has 6 accredited PA schools, with 3 fully accredited and 3 provisionally accredited, denoted by an asterisk (*).
| School | City | ARC-PA | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monmouth University | West Long Branch | Yes | Program Page |
| Rutgers University | Newark | Yes | Program Page |
| Seton Hall University | South Orange | Yes | Program Page |
| Fairleigh Dickinson University | Teaneck | Yes* | Program Page |
| Kean University | Union | Yes* | Program Page |
| Saint Elizabeth University | Morristown | Yes* | Program Page |
The majority of institutions utilize the CASPA online application system. It is advisable to verify the application deadlines on the CASPA website for each school.
Monmouth University, West Long Branch
- 400 Cedar Ave, West Long Branch, NJ 0776
- +1 732-571-3400
Monmouth University, situated in West Long Branch, is a private college with a campus that houses 5,436 students and provides on-campus accommodation.
Monmouth University’s Physician Assistant (PA) Program is fully accredited by ARC-PA. This program spans 30 months, and graduates are awarded a Master of Science in Physician Assistant degree upon completion.
Prospective students should be aware that the costs for the PA Program at Monmouth University exceed $123,000. You can apply through CASPA, with an application deadline set for October 16th.
Rutgers University, Newark
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249 University Ave, Newark, NJ 07102
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+1 973-353-5205
Rutgers University, a public college located in Newark, has a considerable student population of 50,637 students, and it offers on-campus accommodation.
The Physician Assistant (PA) Program at Rutgers University holds full accreditation from ARC-PA. This program extends over 33 months and maintains a class size of 50 students. Upon successful completion, graduates are awarded a Master of Science degree in Physician Assistant.
Prospective students should note that the costs for the PA Program at Rutgers University exceed $121,000. You can apply through CASPA, with an application deadline set for September 1st.
Seton Hall University, South Orange
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400 South Orange Avenue South Orange, NJ 07079 United States, South Orange, NJ
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+1 973-761-9000
Seton Hall University, situated in South Orange, is a private college with Catholic religious affiliations. The campus accommodates 9,623 students and offers on-campus housing.
Seton Hall University’s Physician Assistant (PA) Program is fully accredited by ARC-PA. This program lasts for 33 months and enrolls a class size of 60 students. Graduates are awarded a Master of Science in Physician Assistant degree, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills in their profession.
It’s important to be aware that the costs for the PA Program at Seton Hall University exceed $152,000. Prospective students should note that CASPA is not accepted, so they need to apply directly.
NJ Physician Assistant Certification and Licensing
After graduating from a PA program in New Jersey, aspiring PAs must take the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam . These exams are crucial because they ensure that the graduates meet national standards and are well-prepared for the profession.
To locate test centers and schedule the exam, candidates can refer to the certifying organization’s website. Successful completion of these exams is a prerequisite for obtaining state licensure to practice as a Physician Assistant.
Licensing Requirements
Once you have obtained certification it is required by New Jersey 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.
In New Jersey, PAs, and physicians determine supervision at the practice level. PAs can perform delegated duties within their skills and prescribe Schedule II – V substances when authorized by their supervising physician, with an additional Controlled Substance License required.
The State Board of Medical Examiners – Physician Assistant Advisory Committee governs the licensing of Physician Assistants in New Jersey. You can contact the Board directly using the contact details below:
Address: State Board of Medical Examiners, P.O. Box 183, Trenton, New Jersey 08625
Phone: (609) 826-7100
Website: https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/pa/Pages/default.aspx
Physician Assistant Salary in New Jersey
A career as a Physician Assistant offers great income potential and excellent job prospects.
In 2024, there were 4,660 Physician Assistants employed in New Jersey, with an average salary of $131,070. This represents an hourly wage of $63.01, which is approximately 4.43% above the national average of $125,270.
Between 2018 and 2022, in New Jersey, the average salary for Physician Assistants increased by $14,800, reflecting a 13% rise. Additionally, employment in this occupation surged by 1,850, marking a substantial 66% growth over the same five-year period.
The Bureau for Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a further 27% increase in PA employment between 2022 and 2032, suggesting a positive outlook for the field.