Getting in to a Physician Assistant (PA) program can be stressful, but Logan University offers a few tips to help strengthen your PA application and guide you through the process.
What Makes a Strong PA Application?
Competitive applicants demonstrate a strong academic foundation and high performance in science courses. They should showcase readiness and demonstrate growth from prior challenges or mistakes, as well as have a clear understanding of the PA role.
“Always address the ‘elephant in the room’ on your application,” said Courtney Sumners, MS, PA-C, principal faculty in Logan’s PA program. “We are not looking for perfection, but growth and resiliency.”
Be sure to include any professional experience, especially shadowing opportunities and patient-care work. Beyond listing hours or responsibilities, it is important to reflect on what those experiences taught you about patient care, teamwork and the realities of the PA profession.
How to Stand Out
In addition to the online application—available exclusively on Logan’s website—prospective PA students should prepare for the in-person interview. A strong applicant presents themselves professionally and respectfully while communicating clearly, concisely and authentically.
“At Logan, we care about getting to know each applicant and what makes them uniquely qualified to be selected,” said Brooke Miller, DMSc, PA-C, program chair and founding program director. “We are not only looking at grades and interpersonal interactions, but we are also looking for professionalism, grit and determination.”
Common PA Application Errors
When submitting your application to PA school, it’s essential to meet all the minimum program requirements.
At Logan, minimum requirements for the PA program include a bachelor’s degree, a minimum overall GPA of 3.0, three letters of recommendation, 500 hours of direct patient-care work experience, and prerequisite coursework.
“Even the strongest applications can be held back by a simple mistake, such as missing a deadline for transcripts or other essential application materials,” Courtney said. “Staying on top of these deadlines and requirements also shows a readiness for the commitment necessary for success in the program and profession.”
Professionalism is critical throughout the application process. Ensure your personal statement is appropriate and full of relevant, quality information, and encourage those writing letters of recommendation to submit thoughtful, well-prepared materials.
Logan’s PA Program
Logan’s accelerated 24-month PA program is led by experienced faculty involved in professional PA organizations. The sequenced curriculum follows the body systems and incorporates advanced technology and diverse learning styles.
“Logan does a great job of equipping students with the best resources possible for success,” said Jeremy Boyce, admissions coordinator for the PA program. “From state-of-the-art facilities and top-notch technology to the experienced but versatile faculty and staff, I am confident Logan will produce some of the best PA’s.”
Students benefit from mentor relationships with faculty who advise, support, and offer guidance throughout the entire program.
Learn more about Logan’s PA program at Logan.edu/PA. For specific questions, please contact the PA Admissions team at PA-Admissions@Logan.edu.