Physician Assistant Programs in Vermont
Vermonters looking to become physician assistants (PAs) will need to either go out of state or look to online programs in order to earn their degree. This is because there are no on-campus Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) programs in the state of Vermont. Fortunately, online options offer access to programs that Vermonters can complete without leaving the state. This guide will help you understand what your options are so that you can make the best decision for you.
Online PA Programs vs On-Campus PA Programs in Vermont
Since there are no on-campus PA programs in Vermont, you might think about whether an online physician assistant programs is an option that is right for you, otherwise you will need to consider moving out of state in order to earn your degree. Fortunately, online programs often offer added flexibility over on campus programs, meaning an online program is more likely to fit into your existing schedule. This is because online programs don’t require a commute and can be completed from the comfort of home. Additionally, with webcams and other technology, some of today’s online programs are able to replicate many of the benefits of on campus programs, such as classroom discussion.
Last Updated: 10/19/21
On Campus PA Programs in Vermont
If you are dead set on attending physician assistant school on campus, you will want to look at some of our other state guides to look for other options. You may want to consider nearby states such as New Hampshire or Massachusetts, or could opt for something far away as well. With on campus programs, you can expect to need to report to class regularly to attend lectures and earn credits. You will also report to clinical placement sites to get the real world experience that is critical to your preparedness for becoming a physician assistant.
Online PA Programs
Online programs allow you to attend class from your home or elsewhere. This allows you to save the time you would have spent commuting and learn from wherever you are most comfortable. Some online programs will offer additional flexibility beyond reduced commute time, such as the ability to attend class at whatever time you want (more on that later). You will find that some online programs are more collaborative and try to bring the classroom experience to the home, while others prioritize flexibility for students most in need of it.
With online programs, you will still need to complete clinical experiences at clinical placement sites. Online programs may be able to place you at sites local to your home in Vermont. Ask the programs you are interested in what they will offer you in terms of clinical placement support.
Hybrid PA Programs in Vermont
A hybrid program splits coursework requirements between campus and online. This kind of program is not currently being offered on any Vermont campuses.
Physician Assistant Program Online Learning Formats
Online physician assistant programs are completed either synchronously or asynchronously. Some programs may utilize both of these delivery formats.
- Synchronous learning is any live component – students login at specific times to complete deliverables
- Asynchronous learning is done on one’s own time. Students can complete asynchronous deliverable whenever it is most convenient for them
How Long do Physician Assistant Programs in Vermont Typically Take to Complete?
It can take as short as two years and as long as four years to complete a master’s in physician assistant studies (MPAS) (PA programs are approximately 27 months, according to American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA)). Bridge programs for current PAs who don’t have a master’s (initial certification is no longer possible for those without a master’s) may take shorter.
Online Physician Assistant Programs Available to Vermont Students
The following online physician assistant programs may be available to students in Vermont. Note that some of these options are bridge programs for current PAs:
| School | Degree level | Live classes | On-campus requirements | Length of program | Accreditation | |
| Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
|
Doctor of science in physician- assistant studies (DScPAS) | No | None | 3 years, but accelerated program is two years | ARC-PA accreditation | |
| Pace University
|
MPAS for already- certified PAs | No | None | 12 months | N/A (program for already certified PAs) | |
| Touro College
|
MPAS for already- certified PAs | No | None | 12 months | N/A (program for already certified PAs) | |
| University of Nebraska – Medical Center
|
MPAS for already-certified PAs, or MPAS/MPH dual | No | None | Five semesters | N/A (program for already certified PAs) | |
| University of Texas – Rio Grande Valley
|
MPAS for already- certified PAs | No | None | 28 months | N/A (program for already certified PAs) | |
| University of Wisconsin – Madison
|
MPAS | Some | First summer semester / 12 weeks | 36 months | ARC-PA accreditation | |
1ARC-PA probation is a temporary accreditation status for programs that are making substantial progress toward all accreditation standards but need more time to become compliant.
2ARC-PA provisional means that a program has the plans and resources needed to meet all accreditation standards but has not yet enrolled students; or that a program is demonstrating progress toward the standards as it prepares for its first graduating class.
On Campus PA Programs in Vermont
There are currently no accredited MPAS programs being offered on Vermont campuses.
General Tips on How to Become a Physician Assistant in Vermont
To become a physician assistant in Vermont, here are some common steps. Be sure to check with the state licensing agency for specific state requirements:
- Earn your Physician Assistant Degree – This will take you about two to three and a half years. Look for physician assistant programs accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) to ensure you meet certification requirements in the future.
- Pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) – You can learn more about the PANCE on our guide to becoming a physician assistant.
- Get Licensed – Check with the Vermont Department of Health as early as possible to make sure you are on track to meet all current requirements for licensure. According to the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA), licensure in Vermont requires graduation from an accredited physician assistant program and passage of the PANCE exam. Current certification by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) is not required. This is a high-level overview, make sure to check out Vermont’s state board for exact requirements.