About the program
The Bethel University (TN) PA program is described in PAEA's published program data; full curriculum details, faculty, and admissions cycle specifics are maintained on the program's own website.
From the program's mission statement: "The mission of the Bethel University Physician Assistant program is to create opportunities for members of the learning community to become exceptional and compassionate healthcare professionals, who will practice medicine within an ethical framework of Christian principles."
Christian University, 3 elective rotations
Matriculant data
Actual stats for students who enrolled in the most recently reported cohort, sourced from PAEA's published program data.
Admission policies
Out-of-state applicants are accepted. International applicants: yes, with exceptions. please visit the program's website. DACA status applicants are considered. Distance learning is not offered. Part-time enrollment is not available.
Prerequisite coursework
Recency: 5 Years · up to 1 outstanding at application
Program overview
Bethel University in Tennessee offers a 27-month Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies, with the next cohort beginning January 2027. The program holds ARC-PA accreditation status on probation, which is a significant factor applicants must weigh carefully before applying, as probationary status indicates the program has been found out of compliance with accreditation standards and is working to correct identified deficiencies.
The program's mission is grounded in Christian values, aiming to train compassionate healthcare professionals who practice within an ethical framework of Christian principles. This faith-based identity is a meaningful distinguishing characteristic, and applicants who align with that institutional culture will likely find the environment a stronger fit. The curriculum draws on multiple pedagogical approaches including asynchronous, case-based, collaborative, problem-based, and organ-systems-based learning. Students also complete three elective rotations, offering some flexibility in clinical training focus.
Notably, neither paid direct patient care nor general healthcare experience is required for admission, only recommended. This is a relatively low bar compared to many PA programs, making Bethel accessible to applicants who are still building their clinical hours. The prerequisite list is standard, covering general chemistry, general biology, anatomy, physiology, and microbiology, all within a five-year window, and applicants may enter with up to one outstanding prerequisite. The GRE is required and the MCAT is not accepted.
Admission is rolling on a first-come, first-served basis with an application deadline of October 1, 2026, so early submission is strategically important. Interviews are conducted as panel interviews and are not required to be onsite. The program accepts out-of-state and international applicants with conditions. The estimated incoming class size is 50 seats, and a $1,000 seat deposit is required upon acceptance.
Total tuition is $106,400 with no differentiated rate for in-state or out-of-state students. Three letters of reference are required.
An applicant deciding whether to apply should weigh the probationary accreditation status seriously alongside the program's faith-based mission, accessible clinical experience requirements, and total cost to determine whether this opportunity aligns with both their professional goals and their tolerance for accreditation risk.