Welcome to the Graduate Physician Assistant (PA) Program!  We are part of the James Madison University (JMU) Graduate School and the Department of Health Professions within the College of Health and Behavioral Studies.  Our Program is 28-months long and is divided into a 16-month didactic phase and a 12-month clinical phase.

The purpose of this handbook is to provide information about the PA Program, the Department, and JMU in general.  It is a supplement to, but does not replace, university, department, and graduate school student handbooks.  This handbook serves to clarify the logistic and administrative aspects of both the didactic and clinical phases of the Program.  Students are highly encouraged to carefully read this handbook in its entirety.  An additional “Clinical Phase Handbook” will be provided during your orientation week for the clinical year.

Upon receipt and complete review of this handbook, each student is required to sign and return the form on the final page acknowledging his/her receipt and review of this handbook.  Your signature also denotes your understanding and agreement with the handbook content and policies.

Your journey ahead will no doubt be very challenging yet rewarding.  We look forward to guiding your studies and path to becoming successful physician assistants.

Download the Policy Manual (MS Word)