Admissions

If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of others through becoming a highly competent PA, a world-class education awaits you at UC. Our program is rigorous, but the rewards are well worth it.

This is a very exciting time for the PA Profession and we are glad you are considering the UC PA Program for your training. We are ready to help you learn more about our program and are more than happy to help guide you through the application process.

Please feel free to reach out to us with any questions you might have about our program or the admissions process by emailing us at jeanettebane@ucwv.edu. You can also book an in-person or virtual appointment to discuss the application, prerequisite courses, or the UC PA Program. We are looking forward to receiving your application.

Admissions Preferences

The UC PA Program values applicants with academic strength and rigor, average to above average performance on standardized tests, healthcare experience/exposure, PA shadowing, social engagement (volunteerism, community service, leadership, extracurricular activities), a propensity to work with the underserved, a connection to West Virginia, a propensity to stay in West Virginia after graduation, moral  reasoning, maturity, grit, commitment, and a passion to become a PA. Additional consideration is also given to West Virginia residents, bordering state residents, and UC students and alumni.

The UC PA Program also values life experiences, self-awareness, professionalism, strong references, and a healthcare provider (MD, DO, or PA) reference letter, as well as communication, decision-making, problem-solving, organization, critical thinking, and team skills. We are also looking for applicants who will be a “good fit” for the program.

Additionally, University of Charleston students can apply to and be accepted into the PA Program during their undergraduate studies (see the Fast Track option for more information) or as a transfer student (see the Transfer option for more information).

Applying to the UC Physician Assistant Program – THREE OPTIONS

There are three paths for applying to our program:

1. The Traditional Admissions Pathway is for students who will be entering the PA program post-graduation.
2. The Fast Track Admissions Pathway is for currently enrolled, high achieving, University of Charleston full-time students who transfer in 30 or less transfer credits from other universities.
3. The Transfer Admissions Pathway is available to students currently enrolled in a Master of Physician Assistant Studies program recognized by the ARC-PA, are in good academic standing per an official transcript, and unable to continue their education at their program. This pathway is also available to students in a Master of Physician Assistant Studies program recognized by the ARC-PA, are in good academic standing per an official transcript, and unable to continue their education due to their program shutting down.