Accreditation-Continued: 5 Crucial Updates On The Faulkner University PA Program For 2025-2026 Applicants
The Faulkner University Physician Assistant (PA) Program, housed within the College of Health Sciences in Montgomery, Alabama, has been a dynamic and rapidly developing option for prospective Physician Assistants. As of the current date in late 2025, the program has secured a critical milestone that significantly impacts its standing and appeal to future students: the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, Inc. (ARC-PA) has granted the program Accreditation-Continued status.
This major update resolves previous probationary status concerns and solidifies the program's long-term future, making the Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MS-PAS) at Faulkner University a stable and highly sought-after degree. The program is specifically designed to train competent and caring medical professionals in a Christian environment, emphasizing a rigorous, systems-focused curriculum and a commitment to service-oriented healthcare.
Program Leadership Profile: Dr. Brittany N. Syner, DMSc, PA-C
The success and stability of the Faulkner University PA Program are guided by its dedicated leadership and faculty. Understanding the people behind the program is essential for any prospective applicant.
- Program Director: Brittany N. Syner, DMSc, PA-C
- Title: Assistant Professor and Program Director
- Role: Dr. Syner leads the academic and administrative direction of the MS-PAS program, ensuring the curriculum meets all ARC-PA standards and the university's mission. Her background as a practicing PA and her advanced Doctorate of Medical Science (DMSc) degree provide a strong foundation for clinical and didactic instruction.
- Medical Director: Kristi Witcher, MD
- Assistant Program Director: Lora-Emily Banks
- Other Key Faculty: Lauren Worley, MPAS, PA-C.
The Critical 2025-2026 Accreditation Status: What Applicants Need to Know
The most important recent development for the Faulkner PA Program is its official accreditation status. This is a vital factor, as only graduates from an accredited program can sit for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE).
Accreditation-Continued: A Major Milestone
The ARC-PA has granted the Faulkner University Physician Assistant Studies Program Accreditation-Continued status. This is the highest level of accreditation awarded by the ARC-PA.
This status confirms that the program is in compliance with the ARC-PA Standards and is a significant endorsement of the quality of education offered. The next comprehensive evaluation for the program is scheduled for March 2035, providing a decade of stability and confidence for incoming students.
PANCE Performance and Program Outcomes
While official, current PANCE pass rates are best verified on the program's website, early data and reports have indicated a strong performance, with one source mentioning a 90% PANCE pass rate. A high first-time pass rate is a direct measure of the program's effectiveness in preparing graduates for clinical practice and national certification.
Admission Requirements and Application Process for the MS-PAS
The Faulkner University PA Program is highly selective, with a maximum class capacity of 50 students per cohort. The program utilizes the Central Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA) for all applications, and prospective students should be aware of the specific academic and non-academic requirements.
Key Academic Prerequisites (Minimums)
The program maintains strict academic standards to ensure students are prepared for the rigorous curriculum. All prerequisite courses must be completed by June prior to the August start date.
- Overall GPA Requirement: 3.0
- Prerequisite GPA Requirement: 3.0
- Standardized Testing: Applicants must submit scores from either the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) or the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). The GRE School Code is 5028.
Non-Academic and Clinical Requirements
Beyond grades, the program looks for well-rounded candidates with a demonstrated commitment to healthcare.
- Reference Letters: A minimum of three letters of reference are required. These references must come from a Physician Assistant (PA), a Physician, or another healthcare provider.
- Healthcare Experience: While not explicitly stated as a minimum hour requirement in the snippets, competitive applicants typically possess significant direct patient care experience.
- Health Insurance: Admitted students are required to show proof of personal health insurance coverage.
Program Structure, Length, and Cost Breakdown
The Faulkner MS-PAS is a full-time, campus-based program with a demanding schedule designed to rapidly transition students into competent practitioners. It is not offered as a part-time or distance learning option.
Program Length and Curriculum
The Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program is approximately 27 to 28 months in length, beginning each August. The curriculum is divided into two main phases:
- Didactic Phase: This phase focuses on a "systems focused curriculum," where medical knowledge, technical skills, and clinical reasoning are taught in a comprehensive, integrated manner. The instruction is described as fast-paced and rigorous.
- Clinical Phase: This year involves a series of supervised clinical rotation experiences in various medical specialties, allowing students to apply didactic knowledge in real-world patient care settings.
Tuition and Financial Considerations
Prospective students should budget carefully, as the cost of PA education is substantial. Tuition rates are the same for both in-state and out-of-state students.
- Estimated Tuition (27-28 Months): The tuition is approximately $96,300 to $104,400, depending on the current academic year.
- Total Cost of Attendance: The total estimated cost of attendance, which includes tuition, fees, and living expenses, has been noted to be around $145,910.
- Fees: A supplemental application fee is also required.
Applicants are strongly advised to check the official Faulkner University Student Accounts page for the most current and detailed tuition and fee schedules for the upcoming August intake.
The Faulkner Difference: Christian Mission and Community
What truly sets the Faulkner University PA Program apart is its deep commitment to its Christian mission. The program's core mission is to train competent and caring medical professionals in a Christian environment.
This mission permeates the educational experience, fostering an environment where ethical practice, compassionate care, and service to underserved communities are prioritized. Students are encouraged to develop not only their clinical skills but also their professional and moral character, preparing them to be PAs who serve with integrity and empathy in the healthcare landscape of Alabama and beyond. This unique focus on faith and service is a major draw for students seeking a program aligned with these values.
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