Three Programs Granted Provisional Accreditation

At its March 2024 meeting, ARC-PA announced that three new entry-level PA programs had been awarded provisional accreditation.

With the addition of these newly accredited programs, the number of PA programs in the United States now stands at 309. This remarkable growth is indicative of the dedication of our PA education community — because of the work you do each day, there are now more students than ever who are seeking entry into the PA profession.

Please join us in congratulating these three programs as they prepare to educate the next generation of PAs:

Alvernia University-Physician Associate Program

Alvernia University, Reading, Pennsylvania
Program Director: Renee Langstaff, MSPAS, PA-C

“The Alvernia University Physician Associate Program is thrilled to have been granted Accreditation-Provisional status by the ARC-PA. I am grateful for our talented, dedicated faculty and the university’s support. We are excited to welcome our first cohort of future PAs in August,” said Langstaff, who is also the chair of the Department of Medical Science and an assistant professor of medicine.

Northwest University School of PA Medicine

Northwest University, Kirkland, Washington
Program Director: Troy K. Bender, DMSc, MSPAS, PA-C

“This significant achievement reflects our commitment to providing exceptional education and training to future physician assistants. The provisional accreditation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our faculty and staff who have contributed to this milestone. With this accreditation, we are poised to continue our mission of preparing competent and compassionate healthcare professionals who will make a positive impact in communities locally and beyond,” said Bender, who is also the dean of the School of PA Medicine.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported us on this journey, and we look forward to the continued growth and success of our program,” Bender added.

Widener University Institute for Physician Assistant Education 

Widener University, Chester, Pennsylvania
Program Director: Lori Lyn Felker, DHSc, PA-C

“The Institute for Physician Assistant Education at Widener University is excited to be awarded provisional accreditation and welcome our inaugural class this fall. The faculty, staff, and program director and ready to embark on this journey with our incoming students,” said Felker, who is also an associate professor.