Concordia University Ann Arbor (CUAA) proudly announces that its Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program has been awarded the maximum 10-year accreditation by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA)—the highest possible outcome in the accreditation process.
This distinction places CUAA’s program among an elite group nationwide. The decision reaffirms CUAA’s strong academic foundation, rigorous training, and deep commitment to preparing students for impactful careers in medicine.
“This outcome is a direct reflection of the incredible work and dedication of our faculty, staff, and students,” said Dr. Leah Dvorak, Vice President for Academics and Chief Academic Officer. “Achieving full re-accreditation in such a competitive and closely scrutinized field is a tremendous accomplishment—and one that speaks to the quality and promise of the PA program here in Ann Arbor.”
The 10-year accreditation underscores the exceptional quality of CUAA’s Physician Assistant program and affirms its role as a trusted provider of highly trained, mission-driven healthcare professionals.
CUAA’s PA program is a 27‑month, full‑time professional curriculum, combining 15 months of didactic coursework—spanning anatomy, pharmacology, physiology/pathophysiology, behavioral health, and simulation labs—with 12 months of supervised clinical rotations across urban, suburban, rural, and underserved settings in Michigan and beyond.
Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are eligible to sit for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) and pursue licensure, enabling them to practice medicine as certified physician assistants in a variety of clinical settings nationwide. First-time and five-year PANCE pass rates exceed 90%, reflecting strong student success in primary care practice.
For more information about CUAA’s PA program, visit: www.cuaa.edu/physician-assistant
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Concordia University Ann Arbor (CUAA) is a Lutheran institution of higher education affiliated with The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS). Located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, CUAA is part of the Concordia University System and offers a Christ-centered education that develops students in mind, body, and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world. With a strong liberal arts foundation and growing programs in the health and professional sciences—including Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Physician Assistant Studies—CUAA prepares graduates to lead with purpose, integrity, and compassion.