About the program
The University of Wisconsin – La Crosse 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: "In collaboration with nationally renowned partners, we develop exemplary PAs, in an inclusive culture, who equitably optimize the health of our region."
We will continue to be a nationally recognized program by, selecting students with the academic background, interpersonal skills and maturity necessary to be outstanding physician assistants. Educating students who will excel in improving the health and wellness of patients through the supervised practice of medicine. Developing students who are grounded in professional ethics, cultural sensitivity, and the use of evidence based medicine.
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.
Prerequisite coursework
Program overview
The University of Wisconsin - La Crosse offers a 24-month MSPAS program with ARC-PA Continued accreditation, set to begin in May 2027. Applications are reviewed on a regular cycle after the August 1, 2026 deadline, and the program accepts both out-of-state and international applicants, though no distance learning or part-time options are available.
The program's mission centers on developing exemplary PAs within an inclusive culture who can equitably address the health needs of their region, with an emphasis on professional ethics, cultural sensitivity, and evidence-based medicine. Curriculum delivery blends case-based and organ/systems-based learning approaches, which suits students who learn well through applied clinical reasoning rather than purely lecture-driven instruction. Unique program features highlight an expectation that admitted students bring not only strong academics but also the interpersonal maturity to translate that preparation into patient-centered care.
The academic bar at this program is high in practice. While the stated minimum GPA is 3.0 for both overall and science coursework, the actual matriculant averages sit at 3.9 in both categories, meaning applicants with GPAs below that range will face considerable competition. Prerequisite science coursework is specific: eight credits of general chemistry, four credits each of human anatomy and human physiology, three credits of microbiology, and three credits of statistics. On the patient-care side, 500 paid direct patient care hours are required - the paid requirement is a meaningful filter that distinguishes this program from those that accept volunteer hours.
The program admits a small cohort of approximately 28 students per year, which reflects an intentional focus on selectivity and quality over volume. Interviews are conducted onsite in a group format, so applicants should prepare to demonstrate communication skills and composure in a collaborative setting. CASPer is a required standardized assessment, meaning applicants need to budget time and registration fees for that component. Three letters of reference are required. The seat deposit is $1,000, and separate tuition rates apply for in-state versus out-of-state students, so applicants should factor total cost of attendance carefully when comparing programs.
An applicant should pursue this program if they bring a GPA solidly at or near 3.9, have accumulated paid direct care hours in a qualifying role, and are genuinely drawn to a regionally focused mission in an intimate cohort environment.