Program Overview

The Physician Assistant Program at Loma Linda University is a full-time, 24-month program that results in a Master of Physician Assistant degree.  The program matriculates a maximum of 50 students each September and is divided up into a 12-month didactic phase, followed by a 12-month clinical phase.  The curriculum consists of 131 units, as outlined below in the curriculum.

Didactic Phase

During the didactic phase, students build a strong foundation in applied medical and clinical sciences. With access to the University's extensive resources, they gain up-to-date, clinically relevant knowledge that prepares them for clinical rotations and future practice.

Clinical Phase Overview

During the clinical phase, students engage with diverse populations across various settings, from inner cities to suburban communities. They complete eight supervised clinical rotations, refining their skills in preparation for serving the community.

Clinical Rotations

Students gain hands-on experience in:

  • Family Medicine
  • Internal Medicine
  • Pediatrics
  • Women’s Health
  • Emergency Medicine
  • Surgery
  • Behavioral Medicine
  • Elective (Choose from over 40 specialties)

Additionally, students take two didactic courses during this phase: PA Professional Issues and Capstone.

Clinical Site Options

  • Local Rotations: Conducted within a 100-mile radius of the LLU campus.
  • Distant Rotations: Students may apply for up to three rotations over 100 miles from campus, pending good academic standing and faculty approval.
  • International Rotations: Elective opportunities are subject to change, and are currently available in Guam, Honduras, Sierra Leone, and Malawi. Students are responsible for all associated costs.

Housing & Transportation: Students must arrange their own housing and transportation, except for select inpatient rotations where housing is provided.