Current-cycle decision support
Turn confirmed information into a first practice
Why the physician assistant profession?
Practise explaining why the PA role fits your experiences and goals. Review whether you distinguish the profession clearly, use specific evidence, and connect your motivation to patient care; then record again with a sharper answer.
Quick facts
- Degree: Master of Science in Physician Assistant.
- Duration: 27 months, 174 quarter credits.
- Location: Tampa, Florida.
- Start: January.
- Deadline: August 1.
- Interview: required.
- Accreditation: ARC-PA Accreditation-Continued; next review July 2027.
Admission requirements
Applicants need a U.S. bachelor's degree, minimum 3.0 overall GPA and stated 3.0 BCP expectation, completed C-or-better prerequisites, GRE and at least three references including one qualifying clinician. Direct patient care is preferred, not required. Official program and admissions
Important dates
- Late April: CASPA opens.
- June through October: interviews.
- August 1: complete CASPA file is due.
- January: classes begin.
How selection works
Rolling review considers academics, GRE, references, direct care, writing, shadowing, service and interview performance. Published domains include communication, problem solving, professionalism, motivation, PA-role knowledge and mission fit. Official program and admissions
Interview details
Confirmed
A required interview assesses interpersonal skills, problem solving, professionalism, motivation, academic potential, communication, PA-role knowledge and mission alignment.
Not published
Delivery mode, location, structure, duration, interviewer roles, prompts, file access, rubric and weights are not public. Official program
Who this program may suit
This campus-specific Tampa program may suit applicants seeking annual January entry who can show academic readiness, relevant exposure and clear PA-role motivation. Official program and admissions
Practice and next step
Record a first response explaining why the PA profession fits your goals. Review whether your experience proves motivation and role understanding. Record a second response and compare.
Frequently asked questions
Is Tampa the same as South University West Palm Beach?
No. Tampa has its own application and accreditation identity.
When is the deadline?
The complete CASPA file is due August 1.
Is direct care required?
No fixed minimum is published, though it is preferred.
What is the interview format?
An interview and assessed domains are confirmed; mechanics are not public.
Sources
Recommended preparation
Physician Assistant Interview Essentials
Build a credible PA interview foundation through four focused spoken responses: profession-specific motivation, interprofessional teamwork, fair clinical decision-making, and reflective use of feedback.
Page history
- Published