How to Get Into PA Schools in Texas (Key Stats & Admission Info)

PA Programs / By

Texas has several accredited physician assistant (PA) programs, each with its own benefits, requirements, and statistics. The PA school requirements in Texas are the same throughout different schools, however, some are harder to get into than others. 

Unless stated, the CASPA application system is used for these schools. 

Let’s look at the top 5 PA schools in the state.

Contents show

Interested in learning about the PA Programs of other schools and colleges, finding useful admissions tips, etc? Check out our PA Programs articles here – we cover all major schools!

1. Baylor College of Medicine

The BCM PA program is rated one of the best PA programs in Texas as it provides a broad spectrum of practical experience at the Texas Medical Center. The faculty are mainly professionals in various specialties, so students have an opportunity to delve into their experiences as well. Baylor integrates service learning early in the curriculum.

Related: Is Baylor A Good Medical School? (Major Pros & Cons)

Admission Requirements/Process

To stand a chance of getting into the BCM PA program, you must have a bachelor’s degree in any major with a minimum GPA of 3.2. You must also complete the prerequisite courses with a grade of ‘C’ or higher. Anything lower will not be accepted. 

The courses are:

  • Psychology or Sociology
  • Statistics (Also Analysis of Variance/ANOVA)
  • Expository Writing/English Composition
  • Biological Science
  • Microbiology with lab
  • Genetics
  • Physiology with lab
  • Anatomy with lab OR Anatomy &Physiology I/II with labs
  • Organic Chemistry with lab
  • General Chemistry I with lab
  • General Chemistry II with lab

You don’t have to have patient care hours, however, it’s an advantage. Although it’s not required, you can also support your application to the PA program by educating yourself on medical terminology and basic computer skills. 

For more info on getting into this program see our article; Baylor College Of Medicine PA Program – How To Get Admitted

2. The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center

The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center has expert mentorship, which will teach you skills in primary health, evidence-based medicine, and leadership. The school offers an excellent learning environment where you’re exposed to innovative research. 

Since the school is located in the hub of Dallas, you have many opportunities for internships and placements. 

Admission Requirements/Process

To be considered for the PA program, you need a baccalaureate degree in any field with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Since the college also looks at its applications holistically, you should include work experience (hands-on experience in the health care field), community service, strong letters of reference, leadership evidence, and even any awards you’ve gotten. 

You should have completed the following courses with a grade of C or higher:

  • Organic Chemistry
  • General Chemistry
  • Human Anatomy
  • Human Physiology
  • Genetics 
  • Microbiology
  • Psychology
  • Statistics 

These courses are not required, however, they will strengthen your application:

  • Spanish
  • Medical Terminology
  • Pharmacology
  • Biochemistry
  • Cellular Biology
  • Human Sexuality
  • Immunology

Hands-on patient care is highly recommended. This includes experience as an EMT, nurse, ER Tech, etc. They don’t need a minimum number of hours. It would help if you also had some hours of shadowing a PA to gain insight into the job. Evidence of community service is also valued. 

3. University of North Texas HS Center – Fort Worth 

This PA program offered by the University of North Texas has a fine combination of learning inside and applying that knowledge outside the classroom. The mission of the PA program is to help you create medical solutions by having the skills and knowledge, especially meeting the needs of underserved communities. 

Admission Requirements/Process

The admissions are on a rolling basis, which means you can apply at any time of the year. You must submit three letters of reference and official records of other universities you attended with a bachelor’s degree in any career with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. You must also have your GRE score.

The courses must be completed with a grade of C (2.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale).

Your prerequisite courses are:

  • Physics
  • Biology 
  • Psychology 
  • Anatomy and Physiology (with lab) 
  • Chemistry (with lab) 

The school does not have a time limit on the completion of these courses. Work experience, healthcare shadowing, and community service can also strengthen your admission into the PA program. Letters from a PA or physician are highly encouraged.

4. University of Texas HS Center- San Antonio

The university’s unique PA curriculum allows you to learn in a simulation lab and experience medical rotations. This prepares you to work in different types of healthcare environments. The Laredo Extension campus offers the PA program online, for those who cannot travel. 

This is one of the best online PA programs in Texas which contributed to shaping future PAs.

Admission Requirements/Process

You must submit the PAS supplemental application through the CASPA system as well. You are also required to take an Altus Suite test and a CASPer test. 

The requirements for the PA program are as follows:

  • Bachelor’s degree in any major (GPA 3.0 or higher)
  • Your GRE score should not be more than 5 years old (the school does not need a minimum score)
  • Hours of shadowing a PA, MD, NP, or DO. Direct patient care and community service are also recommended, however, it’s not required. 
  • Two professional reference letters (must be submitted to CASPA)
  • You must complete the prerequisite courses with a C grade or higher

You need the following coursework:

  • Organic Chemistry I with lab
  • General Chemistry I and II with lab
  • Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II with lab
  • Microbiology with lab
  • Statistics 
  • Genetics
  • Psychology 

Any official transcripts from any colleges you previously attended that reflect your coursework and other aspects should also be submitted. 

5. Hardin-Simmons University

The PA program at Hardin-Simmons University gives you excellent clinical skills with lots of practical training in their PA labs. They have a cadaver anatomy lab which is reserved for PA students. 

The university’s faculty ensures that you succeed as a PA and provides support from the beginning of the program. 

Admission Requirements/Process

You must have a baccalaureate in any field with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. You must include your GRE score (quantitative, written, verbal). The prerequisite coursework must be satisfied when you’re applying. 

The coursework needed are:

  • Anatomy & Physiology I and II 
  • Biology 
  • Chemistry 
  • Microbiology 
  • Organic Chemistry 
  • Sociology OR an additional Psychology course
  • Statistics or Biostatistics
  • English
  • Psychology

Lab is required as well!

When the university reviews applications, they often do a holistic review that looks at various factors that also look at your qualities as well as your academics. These include healthcare experience, PA shadowing hours, personal statements, volunteer hours, and letters of recommendation. 

Related Articles