To become a Physician Assistant (PA) in Washington, DC, complete a two-year accredited PA program, requiring a bachelor’s degree and relevant work experience. After graduation, passing the national certification exam and obtaining state licensure are essential steps for practice. Continuous education is mandatory for licensure maintenance, ensuring ongoing professional competence in the dynamic field of healthcare.
Listed below are the top accredited Physician Assistant Schools in, or near to, Washington DC.
Top Accredited Physician Assistant Schools in DC
Choosing an ARC-PA accredited PA school in Washington, DC ensures a high-quality education, meeting stringent certification standards. Accreditation affirms the program’s commitment to excellence, enhancing the credibility of your qualifications. In Washington, DC, there are 2 accredited PA schools, with 1 holding full accreditation and 1 currently under provisional or probationary accreditation (*).
| School | City | ARC-PA | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
| George Washington University | D.C | Yes | Program Page |
| Howard University | D.C | Yes* | Program Page |
The majority of institutions commonly employ the online CASPA application method. It is imperative to verify application deadlines directly on the CASPA website to ensure the timely submission of required materials. Stay informed by consulting the official CASPA platform for accurate and up-to-date application timelines.
Washington DC Physician Assistant License Requirements
Following graduation from a PA program in Washington, DC, aspiring Physician Assistants must undertake PANCE exams, typically administered at designated testing centers nationwide. Certification is a prerequisite for obtaining state licensure, ensuring that PAs meet established national standards of competence. This sequential process safeguards the integrity and quality of healthcare services provided by PAs in Washington, DC. Aspiring professionals should refer to official certification bodies for specific exam details and locations, progressing toward professional validation and licensure in the healthcare sector.
Once you have graduated from an accredited program it is required by Washington DC law that you obtain a license to work as a Physician Assistant there. The DC Health – Board of Medicine governs the licensing of Physician Assistants in Washington DC. You can contact the Board directly using the contact details below:
Address: 899 North Capitol Street, NE, Washington DC 20002
Phone: (877) 672-2174
Website: https://dchealth.dc.gov/node/166752
Physician Assistant Salary in Washington DC
A career as a Physician Assistant offers great income potential and excellent job prospects.
In 2015 there were 460 persons employed as Physician Assistants in Washington DC with an average salary of $99,010. This represents an hourly wage of $47.60 and is slightly below the national average of $99,270.