The Yale University Physician Assistant (PA) Program is a highly competitive and prestigious program that requires applicants to meet specific requirements. To be considered for admission, applicants must have a strong foundation in science, a demonstrated commitment to the PA profession, and a passion for delivering high-quality patient care. In this article, we will outline the Yale PA school requirements and provide an overview of the program's curriculum, admissions process, and career opportunities.
Academic Requirements
To be eligible for admission to the Yale PA Program, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and complete the following prerequisite courses:
- Biological Sciences: 2 semesters (e.g., biology, genetics, microbiology)
- Chemistry: 2 semesters (e.g., general chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry)
- Physics: 2 semesters (e.g., general physics, biophysics)
- Mathematics: 2 semesters (e.g., calculus, statistics)
- Psychology: 1 semester (e.g., introductory psychology, abnormal psychology)
- English: 2 semesters (e.g., composition, literature)
Applicants must also have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a minimum science GPA of 3.0. Prerequisite courses must be completed at a regionally accredited institution, and Advanced Placement (AP) credits are accepted for prerequisite courses.
Admissions Process
The Yale PA Program uses a holistic admissions process that considers multiple factors, including:
- Academic performance (GPA, prerequisite courses)
- Healthcare experience (paid or volunteer work in healthcare settings)
- Personal statement (essay that outlines motivation for pursuing a PA career)
- Letters of recommendation (from academic or professional mentors)
- Interview (in-person or virtual interview with PA program faculty)
The admissions committee reviews applications on a rolling basis, and applicants are encouraged to apply early to increase their chances of admission.
| Application Component | Weight |
|---|---|
| Academic performance | 30% |
| Healthcare experience | 20% |
| Personal statement | 20% |
| Letters of recommendation | 15% |
| Interview | 15% |
Curriculum and Program Structure
The Yale PA Program is a 28-month master’s degree program that includes:
- Didactic phase (12 months): classroom instruction in basic sciences, clinical sciences, and PA practice
- Clinical phase (16 months): hands-on training in various clinical settings, including primary care, surgery, and specialty medicine
The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the principles and practices of PA care, with a focus on primary care, underserved populations, and health disparities. Students also have opportunities to pursue elective courses and research projects in areas of interest.
Clinical Rotations
During the clinical phase, students participate in a series of rotations that provide hands-on experience in various clinical settings, including:
- Family medicine
- Internal medicine
- Pediatrics
- Surgery
- Emergency medicine
- Psychiatry
Students work under the supervision of experienced PAs and physicians to develop their clinical skills and gain confidence in their ability to provide high-quality patient care.
What is the average GPA of admitted students to the Yale PA Program?
+The average GPA of admitted students to the Yale PA Program is 3.5 or higher.
How many hours of healthcare experience are required for admission to the Yale PA Program?
+There is no specific requirement for hours of healthcare experience, but applicants with meaningful experience in healthcare settings are preferred.
Can I apply to the Yale PA Program if I have a bachelor’s degree in a non-science field?
+Yes, applicants with a bachelor’s degree in a non-science field can apply to the Yale PA Program, but they must complete the prerequisite science courses before applying.
