creighton pa program phoenix

Creighton PA Program Phoenix: A Comprehensive Overview

The Creighton University Physician Assistant (PA) Program in Phoenix, Arizona, offers an accelerated path to becoming a highly skilled and compassionate PA. This program focuses on providing comprehensive medical education and hands-on clinical experience. It aims to produce graduates ready to address the diverse healthcare needs of the community.

Curriculum and Program Structure

The Creighton PA Program in Phoenix follows an intensive curriculum designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for successful PA practice. The program is typically around 27 months long, divided into didactic (classroom-based) and clinical phases.

* **Didactic Phase:** This phase involves rigorous coursework covering subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical ethics, and clinical medicine. Students also participate in simulated patient encounters and laboratory exercises.

* **Clinical Phase:** During this phase, students complete clinical rotations in various medical specialties, including family medicine, internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, emergency medicine, and women’s health. These rotations provide invaluable real-world experience under the supervision of experienced clinicians. For an overview of the PA profession, you can check Physician Assistant on Wikipedia.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the Creighton PA Program in Phoenix is competitive, requiring applicants to meet specific academic and experiential criteria. Common requirements include:

* **Bachelor’s Degree:** A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is mandatory.
* **GPA:** A minimum GPA, typically around 3.0, is usually required, both overall and in science coursework.
* **Healthcare Experience:** While the specific number of hours may vary, prior healthcare experience, such as shadowing a PA or working as a medical assistant, is generally highly valued.
* **GRE or PA-CAT:** The program might require or recommend the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Physician Assistant College Admission Test (PA-CAT).

Program Highlights

The Creighton PA Program in Phoenix distinguishes itself through several key features:

* **Catholic, Jesuit Values:** The program emphasizes ethical practice, social justice, and service to others, reflecting Creighton University’s values.
* **Experienced Faculty:** The faculty consists of experienced PAs, physicians, and other healthcare professionals committed to student success.
* **Clinical Partnerships:** The program maintains strong relationships with local hospitals, clinics, and healthcare organizations, providing diverse clinical rotation opportunities.
* **State-of-the-Art Facilities:** Students have access to modern classrooms, simulation labs, and other resources to support their learning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

* **What is the average GPA of accepted students?** Accepted students typically have a GPA above 3.5, but a holistic review process considers all aspects of the application.
* **Does the program require the GRE?** Check the program’s website for the most up-to-date information regarding GRE requirements.
* **How much does the program cost?** Tuition and fees vary; refer to the Creighton University website for current cost information.
* **What are the job prospects for PA graduates in Phoenix?** Job prospects for PAs in Phoenix and Arizona are generally excellent due to the growing demand for healthcare services.
* **What kind of healthcare experience is preferred?** Direct patient care experience, such as medical assistant or EMT roles, is typically highly valued.

Summary

The Creighton PA Program in Phoenix provides a comprehensive and rigorous education for aspiring physician assistants. With its focus on academic excellence, clinical experience, and ethical practice, the program prepares graduates to excel in a dynamic healthcare environment. Careful review of the program’s admission requirements and curriculum is crucial for prospective students.