Physician Assistant Studies Program

At UNR Med, our Physician Assistant students receive education delivered by experienced faculty dedicated to advancing student career opportunities.

Physician Assistant Studies skills

Why UNR Med's Physician Assistant Studies program?

At UNR Med, our PA Studies Program equips students with the medical knowledge and clinical training to practice across a wide range of specialties. As licensed medical providers, PAs diagnose illnesses, manage treatment plans, assist in surgeries and play a crucial role in expanding access to patient-centered, team-based care. Our program ensures graduates are ready to make a meaningful impact as versatile, collaborative members of the health care team.

Learn about our Vision, Mission and Goals

With a small class size, state-of-the-art anatomy lab and simulation lab, experienced clinical professors, and supportive community-based partners, the program prepares PA graduates for a successful and rewarding career.

Brian S. Lauf, DMSc, PA-C, DFAAPA - Physician Assistant Studies

Brian Lauf

Physician Assistant Studies News

Nathan Heitzenrader in a white coat standing in a building.

Faces of the Pack: Nathan Heitzenrader

How an early career in physical therapy prepared a future physician assistant for patient-centered and compassionate care

Jennifer Geddes in scrubs standing in a building with glass windows behind her.

Faces of the Pack: Jennifer Geddes

From first responder to frontline medicine: A full-circle journey to becoming a physician assistant

Physician assistant studies student, Shelby Garrison.

Faces of the Pack: Shelby Garrison

Physician Assistant Studies Class of 2026 student shares her passion for serving rural and underserved communities

Read more UNR Med news
Physician Assistant Studies opportunities

Career-ready grads with exceptional opportunities

The 25-month program, accredited-continued by ARC-PA, offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with essential clinical skills. With required prior health care experience and no residency requirement, graduates are prepared to enter the workforce immediately after passing the national board certification exam (PANCE).

Learn more about our accreditation and PANCE
Physician Assistant Studies job market

Strong job market and financial flexibility

With Nevada’s growing demand for primary care providers, especially in rural and underserved areas, PAs are increasingly in demand. The profession is projected to grow by 27% through 2032. With an average salary exceeding $120,000 and student loan forgiveness opportunities, PAs enjoy both financial stability and lifestyle flexibility.

The UNR Med PA Studies program cares greatly about their students. The student to faculty ratio is second to none and faculty is always accessible. The program excels at highlighting the underserved populations of Nevada and ensures graduates know how impactful they can be as providers.

Henry (Hank) Bingham, PA-C - Class of 2024

Henry Bingham dressed in scrubs.
Brian S. Lauf helping a Physician Assistant use a otoscope on a patient in a clinical setting

Advancing primary care with a holistic, community-focused curriculum

As the only PA Program in the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE), we offer a dynamic, hands-on curriculum integrated with UNR Med’s Department of Family and Community Medicine. Our program emphasizes a balance of biosciences and clinical training, preparing you to become a compassionate, highly skilled PA. You’ll be equipped to provide patient-centered, team-based care, addressing the primary care needs of Nevada's diverse and underserved communities.

Physician Assistant covering a patients wound with gauze in a clinical setting

Empowering experienced health care professionals to elevate patient care

Whether you’re a military veteran, EMT or another health care professional, our PA Studies Program builds on your experience. By offering an advanced degree in medicine, our program expands your existing skills and prepares you to make a greater impact. As a graduate, you’ll be equipped to improve access to high-quality, patient-centered care for those who need it most. Want to learn more about what it's like to be part of our PA program?

Read Frequently Asked Questions

Prepare for an impactful career in health care

Start your journey with UNR Med and make a meaningful difference in the world of health care.

Learn about our admissions process
Physician assistant students in medical class room

Learn about our accreditation and meet our team

Our Accreditation
Our team