Master of Science (MS) in Physician Assistant (PA) Studies

Our Approach

Our extensive resources provide plenty of benefits:

• Advanced practice training opportunities in various fields of clinical practice prepare you to take leadership roles in clinical practice, research and service.
• Intensive academic, research and clinical training offer a comprehensive educational experience.
• Working with PA mentors throughout all phases of training enhances the learning experience.

Program mission

The Rush University PA program mission is to educate advanced health care providers to practice evidence-based medicine with competence, professionalism and compassion driven by academic excellence and service to diverse communities.

Program vision

The Rush University PA program strives to be a national leader in educating exceptionally qualified PAs to transform clinical and professional practice.

Program goals

The goals of the Rush University PA program are:

• Matriculate and retrain qualified students from diverse backgrounds.
• Prepare competent PAs with the medical knowledge, clinical skills, and professional behaviors required for entry-level practice.
• Prepare graduates to work on interprofessional healthcare teams.
• Support the institution and community through student service activities.

A summary of our performance on goals is available online.

The full NCCPA summary is available online.

Program Length and Location

Attendance in the program is on a full-time basis only and takes 30 months to complete.

We are a full-time, Chicago-based, on-campus program. During the first year, 30-50% of classes are blended online and in-person.

All clinical rotation activities are in-person and in the Chicago area. Employment during the program is prohibited; this includes participation in Rush University work-study programs.

While on clinical rotations, you may not provide services within the preceptor’s practice apart from those rendered for educational value and as part of the clinical instruction experience.

You may not receive compensation of any type for duties performed within the preceptor’s practice.

Program Tuition

At Rush University, we know your education is a big investment. We want to make sure you have all the information to be able to make the best financial decisions for you and your family.

Tuition for the Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program is $13,739 per term.

There are no additional institution fees associated with attendance. Tuition is subject to change with a potential 2-5% increase annually.

Learn more about tuition

Learn more about Student Financial Aid

Physician Assistant Career Opportunities

Physician assistants (PAs) often serve as a patient’s principal health care provider.

PAs practice in every state and every medical setting and specialty to improve health care access and quality.

PAs receive thousands of hours of medical training and are versatile, collaborative members of the healthcare team.

Job prospects for the PA profession are very strong. In 2023, U.S. News & World Report ranked the PA profession as the second best job in health care.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects PA jobs to increase by 28% from 2021 to 2031.

Job growth is much faster than the average for all occupations. This makes it one of the top 10 professions for future job growth in the next 10 years.