Different kinds of physician assistant (PA) programs are offered nowadays, specifically on-campus, online, and hybrid programs.
All PA programs—regardless of how they’re conducted—are highly selective, and all provide the tools, knowledge, and experience students need to become fully licensed physician assistants.
But what are the best PA schools in Nevada? For an answer to this question and other useful information, read through the sections below.
On-Campus PA Programs
If you want to attend physician assistant school in person in Nevada, you have two options: you can go to Touro University in Henderson, Nevada or the University of Nevada, Reno.
In these programs, students take classes on campus four to five days a week, and on most days they have three to four classes.
Some students live on campus during this time, while others choose to commute.
These programs require clinical experience, and this is usually acquired locally through arrangements the school has established with medical institutions in the area.
If you can't make it to either of the institutions that offer PA programs in Nevada, consider getting a degree virtually. Whether you’re in-sate or out-of-state, you can enroll in an online PA program, so long as you’re accepted.
Online PA Programs
In many ways, online and on-campus classes are similar. But online classes don’t require you to travel, so they’re cheaper.
Plus, they’re more flexible and convenient, since most of the time you can study and learn at your own pace.
An online PA program will require clinical experience too, and the program should connect you with local institutions that’ll give you an opportunity to gain this valuable and necessary experience.
The accessibility of clinical experience is definitely something to consider when choosing an online program.
Also, check to see what kind of learning style the program utilizes: is it synchronous or asynchronous?
Asynchronous means you can attend classes when it's convenient, and synchronous means you'll have to attend classes virtually at designated times.
The workload in an online program is substantial just as it is in an on-campus program, and it’s rigorous as well.
Hybrid PA Programs
Hybrid programs combine the best of what on-campus classes offer with the best of what online classes offer. You only have to attend classes in person a few days a week, and most of the work is completed outside the classroom.
These kinds of classes are ideal for students who want flexibility but don't want to miss out on the experiences that on-campus classes can foster.
For hybrid learning to be possible, you’ll need to be able to attend classes, so this means living on campus or commuting.
Even commuting a long distance isn’t that bad since you only have to go two to three times a week.
On-Campus vs Online vs Hybrid
Their benefits and drawbacks associated with each kind of program style.
If you attend on-campus classes, you get to interact with peers and faculty more, and these interactions will make the learning experience more rewarding overall.
Plus, working with peers on group assignments is easier, and you can also get together to make study guides before big exams.
The only downside is that this is the most expensive type of program, since you're utilizing more of the campus’s resources.
The biggest benefit of online classes is that they're flexible.
But they're just as hard as on-campus classes, if not harder. After all, you won’t be able to speak with professors and peers as easily.
They are cheaper, however, because you don’t have to spend on transportation, accommodations, etc.
Hybrid classes bring together some of the benefits of in-person classes with some of the benefits of online classes.
Online PA Program Formats
Synchronous learning can make online classes less convenient, since you'll have to show up to lectures and classes at designated times.
Asynchronous learning, on the other hand, doesn’t require this. You can take the classes as you go, but it’ll be harder to get one-on-one instruction from the professors.
How Long Does a PA Program in Nevada Take To Complete?
According to the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA), it takes two to four years to complete a PA program. Usually programs are completed in 27 months.
Unaccredited bridge programs can be taken by individuals who were once licensed PAs but don't hold a master’s degree.
The kind of program you choose in part determines how long it’ll take to become a PA.
If you're taking an on-campus or hybrid class, you’ll probably complete the program in two years. Online programs tend to take longer.
Clinical experience also plays a role in determining how long the program will take overall.
How to Become a PA in Nevada
The first step is earning your degree. After this you need to pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE). If you pass, you can register to be a licensed PA in Nevada.
Tips for Becoming a PA in Nevada
First, you need to have the required credentials to be eligible for acceptance to a PA program in Nevada.
After you're accepted, you need to make time for classes, coursework, studying, and clinical experience. Most students—whether they're taking classes in person or online—view PA school as a full-time commitment.
You should also make sure you’re financially able to complete all years of PA school. It's best to get financing squared away before you begin your first academic year.
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