Steps to become a physician assistant in Oklahoma
Initiating the journey to become a Physician Assistant (PA) in Oklahoma (OK) entails the completion of a two-year accredited PA program, hinging on the prerequisite of a bachelor’s degree and pertinent work experience. After graduation, achieving success in the national certification exam is crucial, as is securing state licensure for practice. A dedication to continuous education is imperative for the sustained maintenance of licensure.
Listed below are the top accredited Physician Assistant Schools in, or near to, Oklahoma.
Top Accredited PA Schools in Oklahoma
Selecting an ARC-PA-accredited school in Oklahoma is crucial for quality education and eligibility for PA certification. Accreditation ensures adherence to rigorous standards, enhancing educational effectiveness.
In the state, there are 5 accredited PA schools, – 3 boasting full accreditation, while 2 are presently under provisional or probationary accreditation (*).
| School | City | ARC-PA | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma City University | Oklahoma City | Yes | Program Page |
| University of Oklahoma | Oklahoma City | Yes | Program Page |
| University of Oklahoma | Tulsa | Yes | Program Page |
| Northeastern State University | Tahlequah | Yes* | Program Page |
| Oklahoma State University | Stillwater | Yes* | Program Page |
Take note: Many institutions employ the CASPA online application system. Ensure thorough examination of application deadlines on the CASPA website for accurate submission.
Oklahoma City University, Oklahoma City
- Address: 2501 N Blackwelder, Oklahoma City, OK 73106-1493
- Phone: 405-208-5054
- Email: gadmissions@okcu.edu
Located in Oklahoma City, OCU boasts a private institution with 2,756 students enrolled in 2023 and an affiliation with the United Methodist Church. The campus, offering on-campus accommodation, is committed to fostering a dynamic learning environment.
The fully ARC-PA accredited Physician Assistant Program at OCU spans 28 months, awarding graduates a Master of Physician Assistant Studies. With a class size of 36 students annually, the program ensures personalized attention and quality education. The accreditation is valid until March 2030.
For aspiring PAs, the total tuition and fees amount to $90,874. The CASPA application deadline typically falls on the 1st of August. Further details can be found on the program page: https://www.okcu.edu/physician-assistant/home.
University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City
- Address: 940 Stanton L. Young Blvd. BMSB STE 357, Oklahoma City, OK 73104
- Phone: 405-271-2058
- Email: infookc-pa@ouhsc.edu
Situated in a vibrant urban setting, the University of Oklahoma Oklahoma City is a public institution with a student enrollment of 29,166 in 2023. The campus, fostering a diverse community, offers on-campus accommodation.
The Physician Assistant Program at the University of Oklahoma Oklahoma City is fully ARC-PA accredited until September 2024. The program spans 30 months, with a class size of approximately 50 students. Graduates earn a Master of Health Science (M.H.S.) in Physician Assistant Studies.
For aspiring PAs, the total tuition and fees amount to approximately $34,540. The program allows CASPA applications, with a deadline usually set for October 1st. Detailed information can be found on the program’s page: https://medicine.ouhsc.edu/prospective-students/degree-programs/physician-associate-program. As healthcare evolves, our graduates are well-prepared to contribute to the dynamic field, supported by a curriculum emphasizing cultural proficiency and service-mindedness.
University of Oklahoma, Tulsa, Oklahoma
- Address: Schusterman Center, 4502 E. 41st Street, Tulsa, OK 74135
- Phone: 918-660-3500
- Email: outulsapa@ouhsc.edu
Situated in Tulsa, the University of Oklahoma is a public institution with a student enrollment of 32,676 in 2023. The campus offers on-campus accommodation, providing a comprehensive academic environment.
The Physician Assistant Program at the OU-TU School of Community Medicine is fully accredited by ARC-PA until March 2024. The 30-month program boasts a class size of 24 students, culminating in a Master of Health Science (M.H.S.) in Physician Assistant Studies. The CASPA application deadline typically falls on the 1st of October.
For in-state residents, the total tuition is approximately $34,540. Detailed prerequisites include completing Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, and 6 credit hours of Upper Division Sciences within 7 years of the application deadline.
For further details, visit the program’s official page: https://www.ou.edu/tulsa/community_medicine/scm-pa-program.
Certification and License Requirements
After graduating from a PA program in Oklahoma, aspiring Physician Assistants must sit for the Physician Assistant Certification Exams (PANCE). These exams assess their knowledge and competence in the field. Certification is a prerequisite for obtaining state licensure, ensuring that PAs meet standardized national benchmarks for practice.
Exams are typically administered at designated testing centers across the country. It is imperative for candidates to thoroughly prepare for these exams, as successful certification is a crucial step towards establishing their credentials and eligibility for licensure in Oklahoma.
Licensing
Once you have obtained certification it is required by Oklahoma law that you obtain a license to work as a Physician Assistant there.
In Oklahoma, PAs are licensed by the State Board of Medical Licensure and Supervision, with the supervisory relationship between PA and physician being determined at the practice level. Supervising physicians need to be available but not physically present where PAs work. PAs may prescribe and administer Schedule II-V substances under their supervising physician’s direction and with Board approval, requiring an additional Controlled Substance License.
You can contact the Board directly using the contact details below:
Address: 101 NE 51st St, Oklahoma City, OK 73105-1821
Phone: (405) 962-1400
Website: https://www.okmedicalboard.org/physician_assistants
PA Salary and Employment in Oklahoma
In 2024, there were 1,380 persons employed as Physician Assistants in Oklahoma, with an average salary of $116,710. This reflects an hourly wage of $56.11, 7.33% below the national average of $125,270. Among them, the top 10% earned $162,580, while the bottom 10% earned $37,820.
Between 2018 and 2022 in Oklahoma, the average salary for Physician Assistants rose by $12,510, reflecting a 12% increase. Conversely, employment experienced a slight decline of 10 positions, amounting to a 1% decrease.
Looking ahead, the Bureau for Labor Statistics (BLS) anticipates a robust 27% growth in physician assistant employment from 2022 to 2032, signaling a positive trend in the profession’s demand and opportunities.