‘Significant accomplishment’: UND’s Physician Assistant program granted ARC-PA accreditation through 2036

GRAND FORKS, N.D. – The UND School of Medicine & Health Sciences (SMHS) Department of Physician Assistant Studies has been granted Accreditation-Continued status by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA), the national Physician Assistant (PA) accrediting body.

“This is a significant accomplishment for our program and is a testament to the dedication of so many individuals who have contributed to its success over the years,” said Jay Metzger, Ph.D., PA-C, chair of North Dakota’s only physician assistant training program. “For more than five decades, we have remained focused on preparing highly qualified physician assistants to serve patients and communities, particularly for service in rural and underserved areas. This accreditation affirms both the quality of our program and our ongoing commitment to that mission.”

The ARC-PA decision on reaccrediting UND’s program comes after an extensive accreditation review process that included a comprehensive self-study by Metzger’s team and an on-site evaluation earlier this year.

Established in 1970, UND’s Physician Assistant program was among the earliest PA programs in the U.S. and has maintained continuous accreditation since 1974. Over the years, the program has evolved to meet the changing needs of healthcare delivery while remaining focused on preparing healthcare professionals to address workforce needs for the people of North Dakota and the region.

Today, the 24-month Master of Physician Assistant Studies program combines online coursework, classroom instruction, and clinical experiences in a distinctive hybrid educational model that allows students to develop and apply their knowledge and skills in a variety of healthcare settings.

The program graduates more than 30 PAs annually, many of whom go on to practice in rural and underserved communities.

“An accomplishment like this is truly a team effort. I am incredibly grateful for our outstanding faculty, staff, and clinical preceptors whose dedication to our students and program is evident every day,” Metzger said. “Our program would not be what it is today without their commitment and contributions.”

The accreditation remains valid through 2036.

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Brian James Schill
Director, Office of Communications & Engagement 
UND School of Medicine & Health Sciences 
701.777.6048 direct | 701.777.4305 office
brian.schill@UND.edu  |  www.UND.edu