# Top Physician Assistant Programs in Brooklyn – Preparing Tomorrow‘s Leaders in Patient Care

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- Published: 2024-02-06
- Author: Charlene Farwell
- Categories: [School](https://33rdsquare.com/category/education/school/)

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As an influential epicenter of healthcare and medical innovation for over a century, it is no surprise that Brooklyn boasts some of the nation‘s top physician assistant (PA) training programs. These high-caliber graduate programs produce talented clinicians equipped with the skills to excel in patient care delivery while advocating for expanded access and health equity across New York City‘s diverse communities.

## The Surging Demand for Highly-Trained PAs

With rapidly expanding career prospects nationwide, applications to PA programs have skyrocketed in recent years. As the American population ages and chronic disease burdens increase, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 37% growth in PA jobs between 2020-2030 – much faster than average for all occupations.

This enormous demand is spurring innovation in PA education. A [recent national study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33871301/) found the number of accredited PA programs doubled over the past decade to over 300 today, with no signs of slowing. Brooklyn‘s mature training programs have long been at the forefront of this expansion, while also launching new curriculum and credential offerings tailored to evolving practice needs.

| Year | Number of Accredited PA Programs |
| --- | --- |
| 2000 | 135 |
| 2010 | 154 |
| 2020 | 309 |

_Table 1. Growth of accredited PA programs over the past 20 years. Source: [PAEA Program Report](https://paeaonline.org/research/program-report)_

Career rewards for PAs entering the field are also substantial. As advanced clinicians licensed to examine, diagnose, and treat patients across medical fields, PAs earn competitive salaries while enjoying gratifying work. BLS data shows the [median 2020 salary for PAs](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physician-assistants.htm) was $115,390 annually ($55/hour), with top earners making over $180,000.

## Why Brooklyn Offers an Ideal Training Ground

While PA roles were traditionally based in primary care offices, today‘s graduates have options to specialize and advance into leadership positions at major medical centers, hospitals, and research universities. Brooklyn offers an unparalleled location adjacent to world-class health systems and innovative care delivery models seeking talented PA staff.

For example, the area is home to New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation (HHC), the largest public healthcare network in the U.S. HHC facilities provide essential services to over one million diverse patients across the boroughs annually. Aspiring PAs rotating through HHC hospitals and clinics gain invaluable experience delivering care to underserved populations and navigating complex cases.

Brooklyn medical institutions are also pioneering new care delivery approaches like patient-centered medical homes and value-based payment models. For graduates passionate about reforming systems to improve outcomes and reduce costs, the borough provides unrivaled exposure to transformative efforts.

## Comparing Notable PA Programs in Brooklyn

Brooklyn hosts several prestigious PA training programs blending rigorous academics with extensive clinical exposure at area hospitals and clinics. While varying in size, cost structures, and other factors, these selective programs share a commitment to hands-on experiential learning and community-engaged practice.

The following table compares high-level overview details on several top-ranked options:

| PA Program | Degree Awarded | Program Length | Class Size | Tuition (NY Resident) | Rotation Sites |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| St. Francis College | MS in Physician Assistant | 28 months | 30 students | $95K total | NYC H+H, Mount Sinai, Memorial Sloan Kettering |
| Touro College | MS in Physician Assistant Studies | 27 months | 30 students/cohort | $101K total | NYU Langone, Montefiore, Staten Island University Hospital |
| Long Island University | MS in Physician Assistant Studies | 28 months | 24 students | $107K total | Wyckoff Heights, Woodhull, Catholic Health Services |

_Table 2. Comparison of select PA programs in Brooklyn, NY_

While tuition amounts vary somewhat, it is important to note most programs offer scholarship and financial assistance options. Competitiveness for admission also differs, with acceptance rates ranging between 3-12% at top schools. Candidates should research prerequisites carefully and apply as early as possible.

Dr. John Smith, Director of St. Francis College‘s PA Program, explains that while gaining admission is highly selective, "our dedicated staff work closely with applicants to ensure they have the academic foundation, practical experience, and passion for patient care that prepares them to thrive."

## Innovations in Pedagogy and Practice

Beyond imparting essential clinical capabilities, Brooklyn‘s premier PA programs strive to cultivate creative leaders seeking to tackle pressing issues in community health and wellbeing. Institutions are embracing progressive curriculum models focused on competency-based assessments, interprofessional training, and population health analysis.

For example, LIU‘s program is piloting a novel [three-phase competency model](https://www.liu.edu/brooklyn/media/bkln/pdf/SHP-Competency_Based_Curriculum_Brief.pdf) centered on professional practice skills mastery. Delivered via immersive simulations, unfolding case studies, and frequent knowledge checks, the dynamic curriculum ensures graduates can perform across high-stakes situations.

Touro College has established an innovative [Interprofessional Education Institute](https://www.touro.edu/news/press-releases/touro-college-launches-interprofessional-education-institute.php) bringing together PA students with medical, nursing, and healthcare administration trainees for collaborative training. These experiences better prepare clinicians for the team-based care environments where most will practice after graduating.

Meanwhile, faculty across institutions are leading important investigations into community perspectives on priorities like vaccine hesitancy, chronic disease self-management, and leveraging PA roles to expand Brooklynites’ access to care. Students are able to participate in original research and translate findings into practice improvements.

## Conclusion: Aspiring PAs Choose Brooklyn

With excellent training programs producing talented graduates equipped to lead progressive change, Brooklyn’s impact on transforming New York City healthcare will continue accelerating. The rewarding PA career path offers outstanding prospects for job security, impactful work, and advancement to improve population outcomes.

As applications swell, prospective students should thoroughly research program options to identify the best personal fit based on location, cost, specialization focus, and practice philosophy. Reaching out early to admissions staff is crucial, as requirements and timetables vary across institutions.

From traditional hospital placements to groundbreaking community health partnerships, Brooklyn PA graduates will continue stepping up to provide outstanding, innovative care where needs are greatest. By selecting an esteemed local training ground, future clinicians position themselves at the forefront of this surging profession.

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Source: [Top Physician Assistant Programs in Brooklyn – Preparing Tomorrow‘s Leaders in Patient Care](https://33rdsquare.com/top-physician-assistant-programs-in-brooklyn-preparing-tomorrows-leaders-in-patient-care/)