History of the Physician Assistant Program at the University of Iowa
To identify and recruit individuals of the highest possible quality from diverse ethnic, socioeconomic backgrounds and life experience, to the PA profession and to equip them with the necessary clinical and professional knowledge, skills and abilities to provide high quality, compassionate medical care to diverse patient populations.
In addition, the PA Program strives to:
After completion of the program, the PA will be able to perform tasks of health care management presently performed by the primary care physician, thereby allowing the physician greater freedom and time for more complicated medical problems. The PA will act in a professional manner, practice good interpersonal and communication skills, teach and counsel effectively, organize and integrate appropriate patient data, be sensitive to the effects of illness on the patient and family, and, at all times, demonstrate an awareness of situations that require reference to the supervising physician.
Since 1974, The University of Iowa PA graduates have enjoyed outstanding achievement on the National Certifying Examination for Physician Assistants (PANCE), consistently performing among the top 5-10% of all programs in the country each year. In addition, since 1974 the graduates of The University of Iowa have enjoyed a first-time pass rate of greater than 99% compared to the national average of 85% during this same time period. The most recent graduates of the program (Class of 2004) achieved a 100% pass rate compared to the national pass rate of 90%. Their performance ranked at the 99th percentile for all programs, attaining the second highest mean score among programs. Preliminary data for the Class of 2005 again indicates a 100% pass rate. National data for the Class of 2005 for comparison will be available in February 2006.
Tuition for 2008-2009 is $14,445 and $33,000 per year for Iowa residents and nonresidents, respectively. Tuition is lower during the second year because students are assessed for only two of the three semesters. Books and equipment expenses are estimated at $3,000 - $3,500 for each year of the program. The University reserves the right to change its fee schedule without notice.
All financial assistance available to students from general University sources is administered by the Office of Student Financial Aid in the Carver College of Medicine. Students may receive aid in the form of scholarships, grants, and loans. The program has a limited number of merit awards based on academic performance. For information contact:
Office of Student Financial AidAccept Applications: April (date established by CASPA)
Deadline for Applications: November 1
Interviews: Rolling admissions, beginning in October, continuing through January.
Notification: 4-6 weeks after the interview
Classes Begin: Third week of May.
The University of Iowa prohibits discrimination in employment and in its educational programs and activities on the basis of race, national origin, color, creed, religion, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or associational preference. The University also affirms its commitment to providing equal opportunities and equal access to University facilities. For additional information on nondiscrimination policies, contact:
Office of Equal Opportunity and DiversityIf you are a person with a disability who requires reasonable accommodations in order to participate in this program, please contact the Physician Assistant Program at 319-335-8922 to discuss your needs.