Rockhurst University in Kansas City partners with the UMKC School of Medicine to offer the Physician Assistant (PA) Scholars program, providing highly qualified Rockhurst students with early and guaranteed admission into the Master of Medical Science Physician Assistant program. This 7-semester, 129.5-credit-hour PA program delivers a rigorous curriculum that prepares future health professionals for success in today’s evolving medical field.
Students gain hands-on experience with diverse patient populations through clinical rotations at leading health care institutions across Kansas City. With personalized advising and a strong academic foundation at Rockhurst, graduates are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel as physician assistants and leaders in health care.
Admission Requirements
To be considered for the PA Scholars program, students must obtain a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher at the time of application and must earn a grade of B- or better in all science coursework. It is highly recommended that all applicants shadow a PA before applying for the program.
Students must also submit the following required materials during the application process:
- School of Medicine PA Scholars Application
- College/university transcripts
- Personal statement
- Resume or CV
- Minimum of 3 letters of recommendation
- Shadowing experience verification form (optional)
Students admitted to the program are required to maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher and a GPA of 3.5 or higher in all science prerequisite courses. See the full course list here.
PA Scholars Program Timeline
- Fall of sophomore year: If you are interested in applying for the program, identify yourself to Annie Lee, Ph.D., annie.lee@rockhurst.edu, or Laura Salem, Ph.D., laura.salem@rockhurst.edu. Current Rockhurst students may apply to the program during the summer between their junior and senior years of college.
- April 1: School of Medicine PA Scholars Program application becomes available
- June 15: Application deadline – all supporting documents must be postmarked by this date
- Mid-August: Interview offers extended
- September: Interviews take place
- Late September: Offers of admission are extended
For more details on the PA Scholars program, visit UMKC’s PA Scholars Program webpage.