To become a Physician Assistant (PA) in Indiana (IN)complete a two-year accredited PA program, often requiring a bachelor’s degree and relevant work experience.
Upon graduation, pass the national certification exam and secure state licensure to practice. Continuous education and renewal commitments are essential for maintaining licensure and ensuring a successful career as a certified Physician Assistant in Indiana.
Listed below are the top accredited Physician Assistant Schools in, or near to, Indiana.
Top Accredited PA Schools in Indiana
Choosing an ARC-PA-accredited school in Indiana is crucial for quality education and certification eligibility. Accreditation ensures adherence to established standards, enhancing the educational experience.
In Indiana, there are 8 accredited PA programs with 7 holding full accreditation and 1 currently on provisional or probationary accreditation (indicated by an asterisk*).
| School | City | ARC-PA | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
| Butler University | Indianapolis | Yes | Program Page |
| Franklin College | Franklin | Yes | Program Page |
| Indiana State University | Terre Haute | Yes | Program Page |
| Indiana University School of Health & Human Sciences Master of Physician Assistant Studies Program | Indianapolis | Yes | Program Page |
| University of Evansville | Evansville | Yes | Program Page |
| University of Saint Francis | Fort Wayne | Yes | Program Page |
| Valparaiso University | Valparaiso | Yes | Program Page |
| Trine University | Angola | Yes* | Program Page |
Many educational institutions employ the CASPA online application system. It is essential to verify the application deadlines directly on the CASPA website for accurate and up-to-date information.
Butler University, Indianapolis
- 4600 Sunset Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46208, United States
- +1 317-940-8000
Butler University, located in Indianapolis, is a private institution affiliated with a Christian church, hosting a campus with 4,427 students. The university provides on-campus accommodation, primarily designed for first-year students.
The Physician Assistant Program at Butler is fully accredited by ARC-PA. This 24-month program maintains a class size of 75, promoting a collaborative learning environment. Graduates earn a Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS).
The tuition and fees for the PA Program exceed $95,000. Prospective students can apply through CASPA, with an application deadline of around July 15th.
Franklin College, Franklin
- 101 Branigin Blvd, Franklin, IN 46131, United States
- +1 800-852-0232
Franklin College, located in Franklin, is a private institution affiliated with a Christian Baptist church, boasting a campus of 897 students. The college offers on-campus accommodation for its students.
The Physician Assistant Program at Franklin College is fully accredited by ARC-PA. This 25-month program maintains a class size of 24, ensuring a personalized learning experience. Graduates are awarded a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MSPAS).
The total tuition and fees for the PA Program exceed $92k. Prospective students can apply through CASPA, with an application deadline of around September 1st.
Indiana State University, Terre Haute
- 200 N 7th St, Terre Haute, IN 47809, United States
- +1 812-237-3773
Indiana State University in Terre Haute is a public institution with a sizable campus accommodating 8,305 students. The university offers on-campus accommodation facilities.
The Physician Assistant Program at Indiana State University is fully accredited by ARC-PA. This 27-month program maintains an intimate class size of 30, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Graduates earn a Master of Science (M.S) degree in Physician Assistance Studies preparing them for a healthcare career.
The total tuition and fees for the PA Program exceed $40k for residents and over $80k for non-residents. Prospective students can apply through CASPA, with an application deadline of around January 3rd.
Indiana University School of Health & Human Sciences Master of Physician Assistant Studies Program, Indianapolis
- 107 S. Indiana Avenue Bloomington, IN
- 47405-7000
Situated in Indianapolis, the Indiana University School of Health & Human Sciences is a public institution. While the campus size is not specified, it does provide on-campus accommodation.
The Master of Physician Assistant Studies Program at IU is fully accredited by ARC-PA. The program spans 27 months, with a class size of 44, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Graduates receive a Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) degree, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed for success in their PA careers.
The total tuition and fees for the PA Program exceed $70,000 for residents and over $100,000 for non-residents. Interested applicants can apply through CASPA, with an application deadline of around August 1st.
University of Evansville, Evansville
- 1800 Lincoln Ave, Evansville, IN 47714, United States
- +1 812-488-2000
The University of Evansville, located in Evansville, is a private institution associated with the Christian Church United Methodist, hosting a student body of 2,078. The university provides on-campus accommodation facilities.
The Physician Assistant Program at the University of Evansville is fully accredited by ARC-PA. Completing the 28-month program prepares students for a rewarding career with a small class size of 16, promoting personalized learning. Graduates receive a Master of Science degree. This program equips students with the necessary skills for a career as a certified Physician Assistant.
The total tuition and fees for the PA Program exceed $90k. Prospective students can apply through CASPA, with an application deadline of around August 1st.
University of Saint Francis, Fort Wayne
- 2701 Spring St, Fort Wayne, IN 46808, United States
- +1 260-399-7999
The University of Saint Francis in Fort Wayne is a private institution affiliated with a Catholic church, accommodating 4,000 students. The university provides on-campus accommodation facilities.
The Physician Assistant Program at the University of Saint Francis is fully accredited by ARC-PA. Completing the 27-month program with a class size of 25, students receive a comprehensive education. Graduates are awarded a Master of Physician Assistant Science degree upon completion which equips them with knowledge and skills needed to become a PA.
The total tuition and fees for the PA Program exceed $120k. Prospective students can apply through CASPA, with an application deadline of around April 1st.
Valparaiso University, Valparaiso
- 1700 Chapel Dr, Valparaiso, IN 46383, United States
- +1 219-464-5000
Valparaiso University in Valparaiso is a private institution affiliated with a Christian church, with a student body of 2,868. The university offers on-campus accommodation.
The Physician Assistant Program at Valparaiso is fully accredited by ARC-PA. Completing the program takes three years, with a small class size of 20, fostering close interactions among students. Graduates are awarded a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MSPA) equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed for success in their PA careers.
The total tuition and fees for the PA Program exceed $98k. Unlike some programs, Valparaiso University’s Physician Assistant Program does not utilize CASPA for applications.
Certification and Licensing Requirements
After graduation, aspiring Physician Assistants in Indiana must fulfill the certification requirement to take the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE). Successful completion of PANCE is essential for obtaining licensure. Candidates can take the PANCE at designated testing centers. Certification serves as a standardized measure, ensuring that PAs meet the established professional standards before practicing independently, contributing to patient safety and quality healthcare.
Scope of Practice and Licensing
Once you have obtained certification it is required by Indiana law that you obtain a license to work as a Physician Assistant there. The scope of practice for physician assistants varies from state to state and therefore so do licensing requirements.
In Indiana, PAs and physicians must have a written supervisory agreement that outlines delegated tasks and procedures for prescribing medication. At their discretion, physicians can delegate any performance of certain medical services to a PA if they are satisfied that they are within their competence. Depending on the scope of the written agreement PAs in Indiana may prescribe, dispense, administer, and procure Schedule II-V drugs and controlled substances. They will need to apply for an additional Controlled Substance License.
The Indiana Professional Licensing Agency governs the licensing of Physician Assistants in Indiana. You can contact the Board directly using the contact details below:
Address: 402 West Washington St, Suite W072, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Phone: (317) 232-2960
Website: https://www.in.gov/pla/professions/physician-assistant-home/
Physician Assistant Salary in Indiana
In 2024, there were 1,560 persons employed as Physician Assistants in Indiana with an average salary of $122,850. This represents an hourly wage of $59.06, slightly less than the national average of $125,270.
From 2018 to 2022, the average salary for Physician Assistants in Indiana increased by $26,760, reflecting a 28% change. In terms of employment, there was a modest increase of 10 positions, marking a 1% change.
Looking forward, the Bureau for Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a substantial 27% growth in the employment of physician assistants between 2022 and 2032.