About the program
The High Point University 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 High Point University Physician Assistant Studies program is to deliver a student-centered, experiential curriculum grounded in high academic and ethical standards. The program strives to develop compassionate PAs who are self-directed, lifelong learners prepared to provide evidence-based, patient-centered care as members of an interprofessional health care team."
HPU students learn the knowledge, values, and communication skills necessary to develop teams and collaborate within an interprofessional environment to become a health care professional for the world as it is going to be. Exceptional clinical simulation labs, hands-on experiences, problem-based learning, willed body program, faculty mentors and community engagement lead to an extraordinary education in an inspiring environment with caring people.
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. On-campus housing is available. Veteran support programs are available; consult the program directly for details.
Prerequisite coursework
Recency: 10 Years · up to 1 outstanding at application
Program overview
High Point University offers a 27-month Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree in North Carolina, accredited by ARC-PA with continued status. The program accepts its next cohort beginning June 2027, with an application deadline of October 1, 2026, and reviews applications on a rolling, first-come, first-served basis, which means submitting early carries a real competitive advantage.
The program's mission centers on producing compassionate, self-directed PAs who can function as effective members of interprofessional healthcare teams and deliver evidence-based, patient-centered care. The curriculum draws on multiple pedagogical approaches - case-based learning, problem-based learning, organ and systems-based coursework, and hybrid formats - giving students varied ways to engage with clinical material. Additional resources include simulation labs, a willed body program, and faculty mentorship, all oriented toward hands-on preparation rather than passive instruction.
The incoming class averages a 3.9 overall GPA and 3.8 science GPA, though the stated minimums are 3.20 for both. Applicants whose numbers sit closer to the floor should understand they are applying to a program where successful matriculants cluster considerably higher. Paid, direct patient care experience is required, as is general healthcare experience, so applicants without documented hands-on clinical hours should not apply before fulfilling that requirement. The GRE is required; the MCAT will not be accepted as a substitute.
Estimated class size is 65 students. Total tuition runs $134,215, with a $1,000 seat deposit required upon acceptance. Prerequisites include general chemistry with lab (8 credits), general biology with lab (11 credits), human anatomy with lab (4 credits), human physiology (3 credits), microbiology with lab (3 credits), and statistics (3 credits), all completed within the past 10 years. Only one outstanding prerequisite at the time of application is permitted. Three letters of reference are required, and interviews are conducted in a traditional format, though they are not required to be completed onsite. Out-of-state and international applicants are accepted, though international applicants should consult the program's website for specific conditions.
An applicant should weigh this program seriously if they have a strong GPA well above the 3.2 minimum, verified paid patient care hours, and a preference for an active, multi-modal learning environment - and then apply as early in the cycle as possible given the rolling review process.