Message from Program Director & Chair
A Message from the Program Director & Chair:
The Augusta University Physician Assistant Program is currently pursuing a curriculum revision that has been submitted to the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) for review. As we move through the admissions cycle for the Class of 2029, we want to provide transparency regarding this process and what it may mean for future students.
If the proposal is approved in time for implementation, the Class of 2029 will matriculate in August 2027 and complete a 24-month, 6-semester curriculum designed to enhance instructional efficiency while reducing overall credit hours and tuition costs. The proposed curriculum reflects careful planning by our faculty and leadership team and maintains the rigorous academic and clinical preparation expected of Augusta University PA graduates.
If approval is not received in time for implementation with the Class of 2029, students will matriculate in May 2027 and complete our current 27-month, 7-semester curriculum. This established curriculum has a long history of success, including consistently strong graduation rates and PANCE performance.
It is important to note that a delay in approval should not be interpreted as a concern with the quality of the proposal. ARC-PA's review process is appropriately detailed and thorough, and additional questions or requests for clarification are a normal part of accreditation review. If further discussion is needed, our program will continue working closely with ARC-PA to provide the information necessary to support a successful transition. In that case, implementation of the revised curriculum may occur with a future cohort, such as the Class of 2030, rather than the Class of 2029.
We anticipate the proposal will be reviewed during ARC-PA's January 2027 review cycle and hope to provide an update to applicants, admitted students, and other stakeholders by March 2027.
Regardless of which curriculum is implemented, students can expect the same exceptional educational experience delivered by the same committed faculty, staff, and program leadership. Whether the Class of 2029 begins in May 2027 under our current curriculum or in August 2027 under the proposed curriculum, our mission remains unchanged: to provide an outstanding PA education and prepare graduates for success as compassionate, skilled, and practice-ready physician assistants.
Elizabeth Coleman, DMSc, MS, MPA, PA-C
Program Director & Department Chair
Augusta University Physician Assistant Program