About the program
The South University, Richmond 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 South University Physician Assistant (MSPA) exists to educate a diverse student population as providers of high-quality, cost-efficient health care who will make a positive impact while practicing the art and science of medicine with physician collaboration."
Off Campus Cadaver Lab, On Campus Simulation Lab
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: no. DACA status applicants are considered. Distance learning is not offered. Part-time enrollment is not available.
Prerequisite coursework
Recency: No Requirement
Program overview
South University's Richmond campus offers an ARC-PA accredited 27-month program leading to a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies, with the next cohort beginning in January 2027. The program accepts out-of-state applicants but does not consider international students, and there is no part-time or distance learning option, making it a full-time, in-person commitment from the start.
The admissions bar is relatively accessible for candidates who are still building their clinical background. A minimum 3.00 GPA is required for both overall and prerequisite coursework, and there is no time limit on when prerequisites were completed, which benefits career changers or those returning to school after time away. Paid direct patient care and healthcare experience are both recommended but not required, meaning applicants with limited hands-on clinical hours can still be competitive - though strengthening that experience before applying remains advisable. The program does not accept the MCAT; the GRE is required. Three letters of reference are mandatory, and all candidates must complete an onsite interview, which can include a panel format, group setting, multiple mini interview stations, and a scenario room, suggesting the program evaluates interpersonal and clinical reasoning skills through varied assessment methods.
The curriculum blends case-based, problem-based, systems-based, and team-based learning with early clinical exposure, reflecting a practical, integrated approach to medical education. Unique infrastructure includes both an off-campus cadaver lab and an on-campus simulation lab, giving students hands-on anatomical and procedural training before and during clinical rotations. The program's mission centers on training a diverse group of providers who will deliver cost-efficient, high-quality care within a collaborative physician-PA model.
Prerequisite science courses are specific: general chemistry and human anatomy each require four credits with a lab, and human physiology and microbiology each require four credits with a lab as well. General biology requires four credits but does not list a lab requirement. These are standard science foundations, so applicants should audit their transcripts early.
The estimated incoming class size is 50 students. Total tuition is $117,019 with a $1,000 seat deposit, and there are no separate tuition rates for in-state versus out-of-state students. Admission is rolling on a first-come, first-served basis with an application deadline of August 1, 2026, so submitting early in the cycle gives a meaningful advantage.
Applicants who are earlier in their clinical experience journey, who have prerequisites spread across years, or who are transitioning from another field will find this program's flexible entry standards appealing - but they should weigh the total cost, the intensity of the interview process, and whether Richmond's full-time, on-site structure fits their personal circumstances before applying.