Direct Entry Physician Assistant (PA) Program
Are you planning to pursue a graduate degree to become a physician assistant after your bachelor's degree? Baldwin Wallace University offers the direct entry physician assistant (PA) program, providing students with a streamlined path that better prepares you for our competitive physician assistant program.
The BW direct entry PA program allows up to 5 first-year students to be accepted each year into both an undergraduate degree program at BW as well as our Master of Medical Science physician assistant (PA) program. The direct entry PA program will guarantee incoming first-year students a space in the graduate PA program, while providing a robust, engaging student experience.
Benefits of BW's Direct Entry PA Program
- A guaranteed space in BW's graduate PA program as an incoming first-year student. BW's graduate physician assistant program typically has more than 600 applicants for 40 slots each year.
- A streamlined pathway to graduate school, which means that the GRE, CASPA application and formal program interview are all waived.
- The best preparation for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE). BW's PA program has maintained a 99% first-time pass rate on the PANCE since the program's first graduating class in May 2015.
- A more robust undergraduate experience that will better prepare students for graduate school. Once enrolled, you will begin a four-year experience at BW that will include:
- Enhanced academic guidance from undergraduate advisors.
- Connections and mentorships with current graduate students.
- Participation in student-led skills sessions as part of the Pre-PA Club.
- Opportunities to sit in on select graduate classes.
- Access to clinical medical seminars as undergraduates.
Direct Entry PA Program Eligibility
Select first-year students enrolling at BW in fall 2026 are eligible for this direct entry program. With the exception of students who have a higher class standing due to the College Credit Plus (CCP) program and/or AP credit, direct entry PA students will be eligible to start the PA graduate program in summer 2030. Academically qualified students admitted to the majors listed below will receive an email asking if they would like to be considered for the direct entry PA program.
Majors That Fulfill BW's PA Program Prerequisites
BW offers several undergraduate majors that include the necessary prerequisite coursework to prepare students for the graduate PA program.
Additional Criteria for Direct Entry PA Program
- A cumulative high school GPA of 3.75 or higher at the time students are admitted to BW.