Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies
Welcome to the Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies
The Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies Program is designed to develop highly skilled, compassionate, and caring physician assistants (PAs) who will positively influence the medical profession, transform healthcare systems, and impact communities. The MSPAS curriculum uses an organ-system based approach that is built around foundational biomedical sciences that are interwoven with clinical reasoning, diagnostic methods, and patient care skills. Courses progress systematically from system-specific content into more complex multisystem applications that culminate in readiness for clinical practice through skills assessments and evidence-based training. Grounded in the University's Christian mission, the curriculum cultivates the development of compassionate PAs who are prepared to provide evidence-based care across the care continuum and lifespan in a variety of settings with diverse individuals and communities.
Accreditation Statement
Pepperdine University, Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MSPAS) has applied for Accreditation - Provisional from the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA). The MSPAS program anticipates matriculating its first class in September 2027 pending achieving Accreditation - Provisional status at the April 2027 ARC-PA meeting. The program will not commence in the event that provisional accreditation is not received.
Accreditation - Provisional is an accreditation status granted when the plans and resource allocation, if fully implemented as planned, of a proposed program that has not yet enrolled students appear to demonstrate the program's ability to meet the ARC-PA Standards or when a program holding accreditation-provisional status appears to demonstrate continued progress in complying with the Standards as it prepares for the graduation of the first class (cohort) of students.
The MSPAS program at Pepperdine University is pending approval by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College & University Commission (WSCUC).
About the Program
Mission
The Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies Program at Pepperdine University is committed to preparing physician assistants who are grounded in Christian faith and dedicated to clinical excellence and service. Rooted in academic rigor, ethical leadership, and a calling to serve, we prepare students to deliver quality care with humility, integrity, and empathy.
Vision
The Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies Program will be a transformative leader in healthcare education by cultivating compassionate clinician-leaders who are dedicated to improving the health of communities through service, purposeful practice, and patient-centered care.
