About the program
The Shenandoah 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: "Transforming Healthcare Through Innovative Education"
Shenandoah's PA Program employs a systems-based modular curriculum taught by expert faculty. The program integrates graduate-level critical thinking and analysis, problem solving, scientific inquiry, self-directed learning and the effective use of modern technology for professional practice. Unique aspects include early clinical exposure, a world class cadaver lab, hands-on local and global clinical rotations, and synchronous learning across two campuses.
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. DACA status applicants are considered. Distance learning is not offered. Part-time enrollment is not available. On-campus housing is available.
Prerequisite coursework
Recency: 10 Years · up to 2 outstanding at application
Program overview
Shenandoah University offers a 30-month MSPAS program based in Virginia, carrying ARC-PA Continued accreditation and accepting its next cohort beginning June 2027. The program operates on a regular admissions cycle, meaning all applications are reviewed together after the August 1, 2026 deadline rather than on a rolling basis, so submitting early does not carry the same strategic advantage it might elsewhere.
The program draws competitive applicants - matriculants average a 3.8 overall GPA and 3.7 science GPA - though the minimum threshold sits at 3.20 across overall, science, and prerequisite coursework. Notably, paid direct patient care and broader healthcare experience are recommended but not required, which makes this a realistic option for candidates still building their clinical hours alongside strong academic records. Prerequisites must have been completed within the past ten years, and applicants may enter with up to two outstanding courses, providing some flexibility for those finishing final requirements. Required science prerequisites include general chemistry, general biology, human anatomy with lab, human physiology with lab, microbiology with lab, and statistics.
Curriculum design at Shenandoah is systems-based and modular, incorporating case-based learning, problem-based learning, asynchronous content, and early clinical exposure. The program emphasizes self-directed learning, critical thinking, and applied use of technology, which signals that students comfortable with independent study and active problem-solving will find the format well-suited to them. A notable structural feature is synchronous instruction delivered across two campuses, and the program highlights access to a cadaver lab along with both local and international clinical rotation opportunities. The stated mission centers on transforming healthcare through innovative education, which is reflected in the hybrid pedagogical approach rather than a purely lecture-driven model.
Total tuition is $93,005 with no differentiation between in-state and out-of-state students, and a $500 seat deposit is required upon acceptance. The estimated incoming class size is 60 students. International applicants are accepted, no part-time or distance learning options exist, and the program requires an onsite interview that includes both a traditional and a group component. Three letters of reference are required at minimum.
An applicant should assess fit primarily by asking whether they thrive with self-directed, case-based learning structures and whether they can commit to a full-time, in-person 30-month program starting in June 2027 with a total tuition near $93,000.