MSPAS - Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to the PA program at the University of Dubuque?
You will need to submit an application to CASPA, the Central Application Service for Physician Assistants at http://caspa.liaisoncas.com
Is there a deadline for applying to the PA program?
CASPA applications must be submitted and verified by October 1, 2020, to be considered for an interview. Since it can take CASPA up to 30 days to verify your application, we recommend you submit your application and required materials by September 1. To be verified, all transcripts, payment, at least two of the three evaluations, and calculated grade point averages must be received by CASPA.
Do I have to apply to the University of Dubuque in addition to submission of an application to CASPA?
Only one application is required for admission consideration, and that is the CASPA application. You will not have to complete another application for admission to graduate study at the University of Dubuque.
Do the prerequisites have to be completed when I submit my application for admission?
As of the 2021 interview cycle, all prerequisites are required to be complete prior to submission of your CASPA application.
When does the next PA class at the University of Dubuque begin?
Classes/Orientation will begin the week of July 26, 2021.
How many students will be admitted to the cohort?
Up to 25 students are admitted to the University of Dubuque MSPAS program annually.
Can I work while I am in the University of Dubuque PA Program?
Students are discouraged from holding outside employment while enrolled in the program.
I have taken the GRE more than once. What scores will you consider?
You can choose which test date results you wish us to consider when you request official scores be sent to CASPA. Please use our institutional code of 1620 when requesting scores be sent from ETS.
What is the University of Dubuque PA Program's competitive applicant profile?
Over 580 applications were submitted to UD with over 300 considered for an interview for potential matriculation into the University of Dubuque MSPAS 2022 cohort. The average cumulative undergraduate GPA was 3.7, the average prerequisite science GPA was 3.64, and the average combined GRE score (quantitative + verbal) was 307. This cohort averaged 2,500 direct patient contact hours and 52 hours of shadowing a physician assistant. The cohort majored in the following areas: Biokinetics, Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Kinesiology, Medical Technology, Molecular Biology, Neurobiology, Nuclear Medical Technology, Nursing, and Physiology.
Is there any way to gain advanced placement in the program so I do not have to attend as long (A3.18)?
The program is 27 months long, with 15 months of preclinical training in the classroom followed by a 12-month clinical phase. We do not grant any credit for prior or experiential learning, nor do we grant transfer credit for any course work taken in a physician assistant or graduate program at another institution.