Overview
ARC-PA and PA education
The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) is the recognized accreditor of physician assistant programs, which are now master’s-level. CHEA-recognized.
The Gate
ARC-PA accreditation, the PANCE, and licensure
Only graduates of an ARC-PA-accredited program may sit for the PANCE — the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination, administered by the NCCPA. Passing it earns the PA-C credential, which every state requires for licensure. An unaccredited PA program is not a path to certification or licensure.
- ARC-PA-accredited master’sThe required professional degree.
- PANCEThe national certifying exam (NCCPA) — open only to accredited-program graduates.
- PA-CNational certification, required for state licensure.
- State licenseIssued by the state medical or PA board.
Worth Knowing
Accreditation statuses
New PA programs earn Accreditation-Provisional status before Accreditation-Continued; graduates of provisionally accredited programs are eligible for the PANCE, which protects early cohorts. Always confirm a program’s current status, since PA program accreditation is closely watched.
Do It Yourself
Verify a PA program
Go Deeper
Official sources
Questions
Frequently asked questions
- Who accredits physician assistant programs? The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA), the recognized accreditor of PA master's programs. It is CHEA-recognized.
- Do I need an ARC-PA-accredited program to become a PA? Yes. Only graduates of an ARC-PA-accredited program may sit for the PANCE, which is required for the PA-C credential and state licensure.
- What is the PANCE? The Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination, administered by the NCCPA. Passing it earns the PA-C credential required for licensure.
- What degree do PAs need? A master's degree from an ARC-PA-accredited program.
- Can I take the PANCE from a provisionally accredited program? Yes. Graduates of Accreditation-Provisional programs are eligible for the PANCE, which protects early cohorts.
- Is ARC-PA recognized by the government? ARC-PA is CHEA-recognized. Its role is the education gate to PA certification and licensure.
- Is PA a licensed profession in all states? Yes. All states license physician assistants, and the PA-C credential from an accredited program is the standard requirement.
- How do I verify a PA program's accreditation? Search the ARC-PA accredited-programs directory and confirm current status, since PA program accreditation is closely monitored.