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: joint BS/MS in Health Sciences and Physician Assistant Studies.
- Duration: 28 months, full time.
- Sites: Central Islip and the NUMC extension in East Meadow.
- Starts: August at Central Islip; January at NUMC.
- Direct patient contact: 200 verified hours.
- Accreditation: ARC-PA Accreditation-Continued; next review July 2027.
Admission requirements
Applicants need 90 transferable credits, 3.0 cumulative and science GPAs, 200 direct-care hours, three references including a PA and a location-specific fee. Official program
Important dates
- January 15: verified deadline for the August-start Central Islip cohort.
- December 1: verified deadline for the January-start NUMC cohort.
- Four weeks before either deadline: CASPA's recommended submission buffer.
How selection works
Review considers statements, recommendations, academics, GPAs, healthcare experience, optional PA shadowing, leadership and interview. Official program
Interview details
Confirmed
Selected applicants complete a personal interview assessing PA-role understanding, motivation, maturity, intellectual qualities, insight and interpersonal skills.
Not published
Dates, delivery mode, location, duration, interviewer count, file access, rubric and weights are not public. Official requirements
Who this program may suit
Touro Long Island may suit applicants who understand that Central Islip and NUMC are two sites within one accredited program. Official program
Practice and next step
Record a first response explaining why the PA profession fits your goals. Review whether your example is specific and evidence-based. Record it again and compare.
Frequently asked questions
Are Central Islip and NUMC separate programs?
No. NUMC is an extension of the Long Island program, with a different start and deadline.
How much direct patient contact is required?
At least 200 verified hours.
Is PA shadowing required?
No. It is recommended.
What is the interview delivery mode?
The current public requirements do not say.
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
