{"id":33,"date":"2023-07-31T17:38:01","date_gmt":"2023-07-31T17:38:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/?page_id=33"},"modified":"2026-01-09T11:17:31","modified_gmt":"2026-01-09T19:17:31","slug":"admission","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/admission\/","title":{"rendered":"Admission"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n  \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--hero-primary horizontal-navigation\"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--hero-primary\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper has-horizontal-nav\">\n\n          <div class=\"title-wrapper\">\n\n                  <div class=\"eyebrow-container\">\n                              \n<div class=\"f--field f--eyebrow\">\n\n    \n  <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/home\/\"  aria-label=\"Read more about Physician Assistant Program\">Physician Assistant Program<\/a>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n                      <\/div>\n        \n                      \n<div class=\"f--field f--page-title has-stripe\">\n\n    \n  <h1>Admission<\/h1>\n\n\n<\/div>\n        \n              <\/div>\n    \n              \n<div class=\"f--field f--link eyebrow-link\">\n\n    \n    \n  \n<a\n  class=\"link \"\n  href=\"\/physician-assistant-program\/admission\/application\/\"\n    aria-label=\"Read&#x20;more&#x20;about&#x20;Apply&#x20;Now&#x21;\">\n        Apply Now!\n    <\/a>\n\n\n<\/div>\n    \n    \n      \n              <div class=\"horizontal-nav\">\n                      <div class=\"horizontal-menu-container\">\n              <button class=\"expand-menu\">\n                                  In This Section\n                                <svg class=\"menu\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" xmlns:xlink=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/1999\/xlink\" x=\"0px\"\n                  y=\"0px\" viewBox=\"0 0 35 35\" enable-background=\"new 0 0 35 35\" xml:space=\"preserve\">\n                  <path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" fill=\"#000\" d=\"M4,23h3v3H4V23z M4,16h3v3H4V16z M10,23\n                  h21v3H10V23z M10,16h21v3H10V16z M10,9h21v3H10V9z M4,9h3v3H4V9z\"\/>\n                <\/svg>\n\n                <svg class=\"close\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" xmlns:xlink=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/1999\/xlink\" x=\"0px\" y=\"0px\"\n                  viewBox=\"0 0 35 35\" enable-background=\"new 0 0 35 35\" xml:space=\"preserve\">\n                  <polygon fill=\"#000\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" points=\"26,10.4 24.6,9 17.5,16.1 10.4,9 9,10.4 16.1,17.5\n                  9,24.6 10.4,26 17.5,18.9 24.6,26 26,24.6 18.9,17.5 \"\/>\n                <\/svg>\n              <\/button>\n\n              <nav\n  class=\"mc--menu mc--\"\n  >\n  <ul class=\"m--menu m--\">\n    \n    \n      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-home menu-item-190\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/\" >PA Program<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n\n    \n      <li class=\"has-submenu menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-78 menu-item-has-children\">\n      <div class=\"link-arrow-wrapper\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/about-the-physician-assistant-program\/\" >About<\/a>\n\n      <button class=\"expand-children has-submenu arrow-toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-haspopup=\"true\" aria-label=\"Display Submenu for About\">\n        <svg height=\"35\" viewBox=\"0 0 35 35\" width=\"35\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n          <path d=\"m17.5 20.2142857 6.2142857-6.2142857 1.2857143 1.2857143-7.5 7.5-7.5-7.5 1.2857143-1.2857143z\" fill=\"#000\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"\/>\n        <\/svg>\n      <\/button>\n    <\/div>\n  \n      <div class=\"submenus-wrapper\">\n      <div class=\"submenus-wrapper-inner\">\n        <ul class=\"submenu\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-79\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/courses\/our-mission\/\" >Our Mission<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n                      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-168\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/resources\/\" >Accreditation and Resources<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n                      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-187\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/clinical-preceptors\/\" >Clinical Preceptors<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n                      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-189\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/support-us\/\" >Support Us<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n                  <\/ul>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  \n<\/li>\n\n    \n      <li class=\"has-submenu menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-80 menu-item-has-children\">\n      <div class=\"link-arrow-wrapper\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/admission\/\" >Prospective Applicants<\/a>\n\n      <button class=\"expand-children has-submenu arrow-toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-haspopup=\"true\" aria-label=\"Display Submenu for Prospective Applicants\">\n        <svg height=\"35\" viewBox=\"0 0 35 35\" width=\"35\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n          <path d=\"m17.5 20.2142857 6.2142857-6.2142857 1.2857143 1.2857143-7.5 7.5-7.5-7.5 1.2857143-1.2857143z\" fill=\"#000\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"\/>\n        <\/svg>\n      <\/button>\n    <\/div>\n  \n      <div class=\"submenus-wrapper\">\n      <div class=\"submenus-wrapper-inner\">\n        <ul class=\"submenu\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-86\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/information-sessions\/\" >Program Information Sessions<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n                      <li class=\"has-submenu menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-99 menu-item-has-children\">\n      <div class=\"link-arrow-wrapper\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/courses\/tuition-and-fees\/\" >Tuition and Fees<\/a>\n\n      <button class=\"expand-children has-submenu arrow-toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-haspopup=\"true\" aria-label=\"Display Submenu for Tuition and Fees\">\n        <svg height=\"35\" viewBox=\"0 0 35 35\" width=\"35\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n          <path d=\"m17.5 20.2142857 6.2142857-6.2142857 1.2857143 1.2857143-7.5 7.5-7.5-7.5 1.2857143-1.2857143z\" fill=\"#000\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"\/>\n        <\/svg>\n      <\/button>\n    <\/div>\n  \n      <div class=\"submenus-wrapper\">\n      <div class=\"submenus-wrapper-inner\">\n        <ul class=\"submenu\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-103\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/courses\/tuition-and-fees\/financial-aid\/\" >Scholarships<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n                  <\/ul>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  \n<\/li>\n                      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-81\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/admission\/application\/\" >Apply Here<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n                      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-85\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/admission\/selection-criteria\/\" >Selection Criteria<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n                      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-82\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/admission\/course-equivalencies\/\" >Course Equivalencies<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n                      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-84\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/admission\/technical-standards\/\" >Technical Standards<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n                      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-83\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/admission\/frequently-asked-questions\/\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n                  <\/ul>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  \n<\/li>\n\n    \n      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-93\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/courses\/\" >Curriculum<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n\n    \n      <li class=\"has-submenu menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-143 menu-item-has-children\">\n      <div class=\"link-arrow-wrapper\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/student-life\/\" >Student Life<\/a>\n\n      <button class=\"expand-children has-submenu arrow-toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-haspopup=\"true\" aria-label=\"Display Submenu for Student Life\">\n        <svg height=\"35\" viewBox=\"0 0 35 35\" width=\"35\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n          <path d=\"m17.5 20.2142857 6.2142857-6.2142857 1.2857143 1.2857143-7.5 7.5-7.5-7.5 1.2857143-1.2857143z\" fill=\"#000\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"\/>\n        <\/svg>\n      <\/button>\n    <\/div>\n  \n      <div class=\"submenus-wrapper\">\n      <div class=\"submenus-wrapper-inner\">\n        <ul class=\"submenu\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-145\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/student-life\/program-highlights\/\" >Program Highlights<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n                      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-144\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/student-life\/usc-pa-pathways\/\" >USC PA Pathways Program<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n                      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-146\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/student-life\/trojan-trainer\/\" >Trojan Trainer<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n                      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-149\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/student-life\/student-policies\/\" >Student Policies<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n                      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-394\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/student-life\/student-resources\/\" >Student Resources<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n                  <\/ul>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  \n<\/li>\n\n    \n      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-151\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/faculty\/\" >Faculty<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n\n    \n      <li class=\"has-submenu menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-173 menu-item-has-children\">\n      <div class=\"link-arrow-wrapper\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/employment-opportunities\/\" >Employment Opportunities<\/a>\n\n      <button class=\"expand-children has-submenu arrow-toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-haspopup=\"true\" aria-label=\"Display Submenu for Employment Opportunities\">\n        <svg height=\"35\" viewBox=\"0 0 35 35\" width=\"35\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n          <path d=\"m17.5 20.2142857 6.2142857-6.2142857 1.2857143 1.2857143-7.5 7.5-7.5-7.5 1.2857143-1.2857143z\" fill=\"#000\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"\/>\n        <\/svg>\n      <\/button>\n    <\/div>\n  \n      <div class=\"submenus-wrapper\">\n      <div class=\"submenus-wrapper-inner\">\n        <ul class=\"submenu\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-172\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/employment-listings\/\" >Employment Listings<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n                  <\/ul>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  \n<\/li>\n\n    \n      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-186\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/contact\/\" >Contact<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n\n    \n      <\/ul><!-- m--menu -->\n<\/nav>\n\n            <\/div>\n                  <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n    \n  \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--featured-block image-left white\"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--featured-block\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"text-image-container\">\n    <div class=\"text-container\">\n\n      \n                  \n<div class=\"f--field f--section-title has-stripe\">\n\n    \n  <h2>\n          Program Admission Requirements\n      <\/h2>\n\n\n<\/div>\n      \n                  \n<div class=\"f--field f--description description-medium\">\n\n    \n  <p>The Physician Assistant (PA) program is administered by the Keck School of Medicine of USC. The minimum standard for admission into the program is a United States bachelor\u2019s degree (in any discipline), or its equivalent from a regionally accredited institution, and completion of all program prerequisite coursework. Applicants are expected to have a minimum cumulative undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 (on a scale in which A = 4.0).<\/p>\n<p><strong>Quicklinks:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n      \n              <div class=\"links-container\">\n                          \n<div class=\"f--field f--link\">\n\n    \n    \n  \n<a\n  class=\"link \"\n  href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/11\/One-pager_2025-26.pdf.pdf-4.pdf\"\n  target=\"_blank\"  aria-label=\"Read&#x20;more&#x20;about&#x20;Program&#x20;Prerequisites&#x20;&#x28;PDF&#x29;\">\n    <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"20\" height=\"12\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 12\"><polygon points=\"14 0 20 6 19 7 19 7 19 7 14 12 13 10.9 16.9 7 0 7 0 5 17 5 13 1 14 0\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\" stroke-width=\"0\"\/><\/svg>    Program Prerequisites (PDF)\n    <\/a>\n\n\n<\/div>\n                          \n<div class=\"f--field f--link\">\n\n    \n    \n  \n<a\n  class=\"link \"\n  href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/11\/Brochure_2025-2026.pdf.pdf\"\n  target=\"_blank\"  aria-label=\"Read&#x20;more&#x20;about&#x20;Program&#x20;Brochure&#x20;&#x28;PDF&#x29;\">\n    <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"20\" height=\"12\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 12\"><polygon points=\"14 0 20 6 19 7 19 7 19 7 14 12 13 10.9 16.9 7 0 7 0 5 17 5 13 1 14 0\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\" stroke-width=\"0\"\/><\/svg>    Program Brochure (PDF)\n    <\/a>\n\n\n<\/div>\n                  <\/div>\n      \n    <\/div>\n\n          <div class=\"image-container\">\n            \n<div class=\"f--field f--image\">\n\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n              \n      <img\n                            data-src=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2023\/07\/pa-program-admission-group-1000x667-1-768x667.jpg\"\n                    data-sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 50vw, (min-width:768px) 100vw, 100vw\"          class=\"lazyload\"\n        \n        alt=\"PA program students and faculty pose in a clinical setting.\"\n        \n                                      \/>\n\n    \n    \n  \n  \n\n<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n    \n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n\n\n  \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--spacer \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--spacer\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n  \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text white\"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <h2>Requirements Overview<\/h2>\n<h3>Process and Deadlines<\/h3>\n<p>All science prerequisites are expected to be completed by the end of the fall term in the year prior to matriculation. All non-science prerequisites must be finished by the end of the spring term just before the matriculating fall semester. A maximum of two non-science prerequisite courses can be in-progress during the spring term prior to matriculation.<\/p>\n<p>All prerequisite courses must be completed for letter grades with at least a grade of C (2.0) earned.<\/p>\n<p>To ensure their coursework meets the program&#8217;s requirements, applicants should check the <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/admission\/course-equivalencies\/\">course equivalency listing<\/a>. They are also strongly encouraged to attend our virtual events and watch the <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/information-sessions\/\">prerecorded information sessions<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>To be considered for the Physician Assistant program, applicants must meet the following requirements:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>\n<p class=\"p1\">Submit a complete application package, which consists of the (1) CASPA application, (2) USC Supplemental Application, and (3) non-refundable supplemental application fee, by September 1st.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"p1\">Complete the necessary prerequisite coursework and hold a bachelor&#8217;s degree from a regionally accredited institution by June 30 prior to the matriculating Fall semester.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p class=\"p1\">It&#8217;s highly recommended that applicants submit their complete application package earlier, as the program reviews applications continuously and admits students on a rolling basis.<\/p>\n<p>Applicants should also keep copies of all the materials they submit to the program. The program only accepts students for entry in the fall semester; therefore, applications for other terms will not be considered.<\/p>\n<p>Please note: There is no advanced standing offered on entry to, or during enrollment in, the program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n          \n  \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--accordions \"\n\n  \n   aria-label=\"Content Accordions\"\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--accordions\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n      <div class=\"header-container\">\n\n                  \n<div class=\"f--field f--section-title\">\n\n    \n  <h2>\n          Science Prerequisites\n      <\/h2>\n\n\n<\/div>\n      \n                  \n<div class=\"f--field f--description description-large\">\n\n    \n  <p class=\"p1\">One (1) year sequential coursework in General Biology and Chemistry with Lab for biological-based science majors. One semester (3 units) or quarter (4 units) of Microbiology with Lab, Human Anatomy with Lab, and Human Physiology.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">All courses must be completed with &#8220;C&#8221; grade or higher. Science prerequisites have a 10-year expiration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n      \n    <\/div>\n  \n      <ul>\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-1-KBIGrIltmv\" aria-controls=\"section-1-1-KBIGrIltmv\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Biology<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-1-KBIGrIltmv\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-1-KBIGrIltmv\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p><strong>Option 1<br \/>\n<\/strong>General Biology or Human Biology<sup>1<\/sup>: One (1) year sequential coursework<\/p>\n<p>\u2013 OR \u2013<\/p>\n<p><strong>Option 2<br \/>\n<\/strong>One (1) semester\/quarter* of General Biology or Human Biology and one (1) semester or two (2) quarters of an additional Biology course(s) from the list below.<\/p>\n<p><em>*Beginning in the 2026-2027 application cycle, two (2) quarters of General Biology or Human Biology can substitute for one (1) semester of General Biology or Human Biology.<\/em><\/p>\n<h6>Option 2 biology courses must be designed for biological-based science majors.<\/h6>\n<div class=\"table-2\">\n<table style=\"height: 72px;width: 100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px\">\n<td style=\"height: 24px\">Cell Biology<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 24px\">Molecular Biology<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 24px\">Genetics<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px\">\n<td style=\"height: 24px\">Endocrinology<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 24px\">Pharmacology<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 24px\">Immunology<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px\">\n<td style=\"height: 24px\">Histology<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 24px\">Embryology<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 24px\">Neuroscience<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<h5>1 If your institution does not offer a General Biology or Human Biology series, then you must provide proof of completing the introductory biology series for biological-based science majors (e.g. Zoology, Cell Biology, etc.). Applicants from an institution on the quarter system: If your institution does not offer three (3) quarters of General Biology or Human Biology, you may elect to take two (2) quarters of General Biology and one (1) quarter of one of the following: Genetics, Molecular Biology, Immunology or Cell Biology.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-2-KBIGrIltmv\" aria-controls=\"section-1-2-KBIGrIltmv\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Chemistry with Lab<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-2-KBIGrIltmv\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-2-KBIGrIltmv\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p><strong>Option 1<br \/>\n<\/strong>General Chemistry with Lab<sup>1<\/sup>: One (1) year sequential coursework<\/p>\n<p>\u2013 OR \u2013<\/p>\n<p><strong>Option 2<br \/>\n<\/strong>One (1) semester\/quarter of General Chemistry with Lab and one (1) semester or two (2) quarters of an additional Chemistry course(s) with a lab from the list below.<\/p>\n<p><em>*Beginning in the 2026-2027 application cycle, two (2) quarters of General Chemistry with Lab can substitute for one (1) semester of General Chemistry with Lab.<\/em><\/p>\n<h6>Option 2 chemistry with lab courses must be designed for biological-based science majors.<\/h6>\n<div class=\"table-2\">\n<table style=\"width: 100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>Organic Chemistry<\/td>\n<td>Quantitative Analysis<\/td>\n<td>Inorganic Chemistry<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Biochemistry<\/td>\n<td>Analytical Chemistry<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h5 class=\"p1\">1 If your institution does not offer a General Chemistry with Lab series, then you must provide proof of completing the introductory chemistry with lab series for biological-based science majors. Applicants from an institution on the quarter system: If your institution does not offer three (3) quarters of General Chemistry with Lab, you may elect to take two (2) quarters of General Chemistry with Lab and one (1) quarter of one of the following: Organic Chemistry with Lab, Biochemistry with Lab, or Inorganic Chemistry with Lab.<\/h5>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-3-KBIGrIltmv\" aria-controls=\"section-1-3-KBIGrIltmv\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Microbiology with Lab<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-3-KBIGrIltmv\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-3-KBIGrIltmv\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p class=\"p1\">One semester (3 units) or quarter (4 units).<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>May be in the following:<\/p>\n<div class=\"table-2\">\n<table style=\"width: 100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>Microbiology<\/td>\n<td>Introductory Microbiology<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>General Microbiology<\/td>\n<td>Medical Microbiology<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>If your institution does not offer one of the above courses, then you must send a course description and\/or syllabus to uscpa@usc.edu for verification.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-4-KBIGrIltmv\" aria-controls=\"section-1-4-KBIGrIltmv\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Human Anatomy with Lab<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-4-KBIGrIltmv\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-4-KBIGrIltmv\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p class=\"p1\">One semester (3 units) or quarter (4 units).<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>A combined Human Anatomy and Physiology (A&amp;P) with Lab series can fulfill the Human Anatomy with Lab and Human Physiology prerequisites. If completing an A&amp;P series, then you must complete one (1) year of sequential coursework (2 semesters or 3 quarters). For example, if your regionally accredited institution offers a three-quarter A&amp;P series, then you must complete all three courses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-5-KBIGrIltmv\" aria-controls=\"section-1-5-KBIGrIltmv\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Human Physiology<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-5-KBIGrIltmv\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-5-KBIGrIltmv\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>One semester (3 units) or quarter (4 units).<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>A combined Human Anatomy and Physiology (A&amp;P) with Lab series can fulfill the Human Anatomy with Lab and Human Physiology prerequisites. If completing an A&amp;P series, then you must complete one (1) year of sequential coursework (2 semesters or 3 quarters). For example, if your regionally accredited institution offers a three-quarter A&amp;P series, then you must complete all three courses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n          <\/ul>\n  \n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n          \n  \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--accordions \"\n\n  \n   aria-label=\"Content Accordions\"\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--accordions\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n      <div class=\"header-container\">\n\n                  \n<div class=\"f--field f--section-title\">\n\n    \n  <h2>\n          Non-Science Prerequisites\n      <\/h2>\n\n\n<\/div>\n      \n                  \n<div class=\"f--field f--description description-large\">\n\n    \n  <p>One (1) year sequential coursework (2 semesters or 3 quarters) in Beginning Spanish. One semester (3 units) or quarter (4 units) of Statistics and Psychology. Minimum one (1) unit (semester or quarter) or certificate of completion for Medical Terminology.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">All courses must be completed with &#8220;C&#8221; grade or higher. Non-science prerequisites do not have an expiration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n      \n    <\/div>\n  \n      <ul>\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-1-KdLzpnqPCw\" aria-controls=\"section-1-1-KdLzpnqPCw\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Beginning Spanish<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-1-KdLzpnqPCw\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-1-KdLzpnqPCw\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>One (1) year (2 semesters or 3 quarters). Must be college-level credit earned either through coursework or by placement examination. There are no language substitutions.<\/p>\n<p>The CLEP exam can be used to satisfy the Spanish prerequisite. A passing score of 63 or higher is required. Request for scores to be sent to University of Southern California (Recipient Code: 8895).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-2-KdLzpnqPCw\" aria-controls=\"section-1-2-KdLzpnqPCw\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Statistics<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-2-KdLzpnqPCw\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-2-KdLzpnqPCw\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>One semester (3 units) or quarter (4 units).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-3-KdLzpnqPCw\" aria-controls=\"section-1-3-KdLzpnqPCw\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Introduction\/General Psychology<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-3-KdLzpnqPCw\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-3-KdLzpnqPCw\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>One semester (3 units) or quarter (4 units).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-4-KdLzpnqPCw\" aria-controls=\"section-1-4-KdLzpnqPCw\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Medical Terminology <\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-4-KdLzpnqPCw\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-4-KdLzpnqPCw\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>An applicant can complete a minimum of 1 semester\/quarter unit at a regionally accredited institution\u00a0<strong>or<\/strong>\u00a0submit a medical terminology certificate of completion from a regionally accredited institution or vocational program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-5-KdLzpnqPCw\" aria-controls=\"section-1-5-KdLzpnqPCw\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">English Composition (International Applicants Only)<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-5-KdLzpnqPCw\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-5-KdLzpnqPCw\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p class=\"p1\">One (1) year (2 semesters or 3 quarters).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n          <\/ul>\n  \n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n                    \n  \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--accordions \"\n\n  \n   aria-label=\"Content Accordions\"\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--accordions\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n      <div class=\"header-container\">\n\n                  \n<div class=\"f--field f--section-title\">\n\n    \n  <h2>\n          Additional Considerations\n      <\/h2>\n\n\n<\/div>\n      \n                  \n<div class=\"f--field f--description description-large\">\n\n    \n  <p>We reserve the right to confirm and verify all employment, volunteering, and clinical experiences as included in all submitted applications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n      \n    <\/div>\n  \n      <ul>\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-1-DtM6V4dKaJ\" aria-controls=\"section-1-1-DtM6V4dKaJ\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Prerequisites Completion Requirements<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-1-DtM6V4dKaJ\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-1-DtM6V4dKaJ\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>All science prerequisite coursework, including coursework under consideration for exemption as noted above, must be completed by the end of the fall term of the year prior to matriculation. It is highly recommended that science prerequisites be taken as recently as possible. No more than two non-science prerequisite courses can be in progress in the spring term following the September 1 application deadline. If you are reapplying to the PA program, then you must submit all new materials.<\/p>\n<p>All prerequisite coursework must be completed at regionally accredited institutions. A list of course prerequisites that may be completed at more than 200 institutions can be found at the <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/admission\/course-equivalencies\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Course Equivalencies page<\/strong><\/a>. It is the applicant&#8217;s responsibility to review and complete all of the prerequisites necessary to be eligible to apply for the USC PA program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-2-DtM6V4dKaJ\" aria-controls=\"section-1-2-DtM6V4dKaJ\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">International Applicants<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-2-DtM6V4dKaJ\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-2-DtM6V4dKaJ\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>In general, prospective applicants who have completed their education in countries outside of the United States must secure a Detail Report (course-by-course report) by the <a href=\"http:\/\/ierf.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">International Education Research Foundation<\/a>* to preliminarily verify that they have completed the 1) equivalence of a bachelor\u2019s degree and 2) admission prerequisites.<\/p>\n<p>*Other international credentialing services will not be accepted.<\/p>\n<p>Two semesters of college-level English composition are also required. In addition, the USC PA Program may require applicants to take the TOEFL to indicate proficiency in English. If granted an interview and offered admission to the USC PA Program, applicants must submit official international transcripts to USC for verification of the preliminary, unofficial review conducted by the evaluation service.<\/p>\n<p>TOEFL scores:<\/p>\n<p>English-proficiency scores must be dated within 2 years (24 months) of the date you submit your graduate application. For example, a prospective student applying to fall 2024 who submits their USC application in December 2023 will need to have taken the test no earlier than December 2021.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong>Please reach out to <a href=\"mailto:uscpa@usc.edu\">uscpa@usc.edu<\/a> to verify the required materials before applying.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>If admitted into the program, international students will need to submit an I-20 form to USC. You can refer to the\u00a0<b data-stringify-type=\"bold\"><a class=\"c-link c-link--underline\" href=\"https:\/\/urldefense.com\/v3\/__https:\/\/gradadm.usc.edu\/overview-of-student-visas\/trojan-international-checklist\/__;!!JkGBRS3n8cDS!kSnlMYekdimXhZySWFjlE9Z1KlGkmFYKGBtqlFxDTdlL0WCquWgYAhPRXlYxRddDIwnJR5oU_ne9l7URAkEr0A$\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-stringify-link=\"https:\/\/urldefense.com\/v3\/__https:\/\/gradadm.usc.edu\/overview-of-student-visas\/trojan-international-checklist\/__;!!JkGBRS3n8cDS!kSnlMYekdimXhZySWFjlE9Z1KlGkmFYKGBtqlFxDTdlL0WCquWgYAhPRXlYxRddDIwnJR5oU_ne9l7URAkEr0A$\" data-sk=\"tooltip_parent\">Trojan International Checklist<\/a><\/b>\u00a0to see what steps need to be taken upon admittance.<\/p>\n<p>If students have any I-20-related inquiry, then please contact Graduate Admissions using their\u00a0<a class=\"c-link c-link--underline\" href=\"https:\/\/urldefense.com\/v3\/__https:\/\/ask.usc.edu\/app\/ask__;!!JkGBRS3n8cDS!kSnlMYekdimXhZySWFjlE9Z1KlGkmFYKGBtqlFxDTdlL0WCquWgYAhPRXlYxRddDIwnJR5oU_ne9l7X9uipEhg$\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-stringify-link=\"https:\/\/urldefense.com\/v3\/__https:\/\/ask.usc.edu\/app\/ask__;!!JkGBRS3n8cDS!kSnlMYekdimXhZySWFjlE9Z1KlGkmFYKGBtqlFxDTdlL0WCquWgYAhPRXlYxRddDIwnJR5oU_ne9l7X9uipEhg$\" data-sk=\"tooltip_parent\">Contact Form<\/a>\u00a0(In the dropdown menu, select Area = Graduate Admission;\u00a0 Category = Immigration Matters).<\/p>\n<p>For additional information, international students should visit:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/gradadm.usc.edu\/domestic-students\/how-to-apply\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/gradadm.usc.edu\/domestic-students\/how-to-apply\/<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/gradadm.usc.edu\/apply\/international-students\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/gradadm.usc.edu\/apply\/international-students\/<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/gradadm.usc.edu\/prospective-international-students\/english-proficiency\/#chapter=english-language-test-waiver\">https:\/\/gradadm.usc.edu\/prospective-international-students\/english-proficiency\/#chapter=english-language-test-waiver<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/ois.usc.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">http:\/\/ois.usc.edu\/<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>We reserve the right to confirm and verify all employment, volunteering, and clinical experience as included in all submitted applications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-3-DtM6V4dKaJ\" aria-controls=\"section-1-3-DtM6V4dKaJ\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">AP Credit<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-3-DtM6V4dKaJ\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-3-DtM6V4dKaJ\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <h5>For applicants that received AP credit in science prerequisites:<\/h5>\n<p>Advanced Placement (AP) credit for science prerequisites will not be accepted. If an applicant has received one semester or quarter of AP credit (or equivalent) for Biology or Chemistry with Lab, then the applicant may elect to satisfy the prerequisite(s) in one of two ways:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Complete the specific course sequence as outlined above (i.e. complete two semesters or three quarters of the general science course series), or<\/li>\n<li>Complete a minimum of two semesters (6 units) or three quarters (9 units) of upper-division coursework for biological-based science majors.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>For example, if you received AP credit for one term of general biology, then you may satisfy the Biology prerequisite in one of two ways:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Complete a one-year (two semesters or three quarters) general biology course sequence for biological-based science majors, or<\/li>\n<li>Complete a minimum of two semesters (6 units) or three quarters (9 units) of upper-division coursework for biological-based science majors (e.g. cell biology, genetics, histology, etc.). Upper-division courses for non-majors will not be accepted.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h5 class=\"p1\">For applicants that received AP credit in non-science courses:<\/h5>\n<p class=\"p1\">AP credits for non-science prerequisites can be accepted. If you intend to satisfy prerequisite(s) with AP transfer credit, then your official transcript must display the (1) university course equivalent (e.g. \u201cPSY 101: Intro to Psychology\u201d) and (2) the number of AP transfer credits received. If your official transcript does not display this information, then you\u2019ll need to request for your university\u2019s specific department (e.g. Psychology department) to send our team an email at uscpa@usc.edu stating how many AP transfer units you received and the equivalent university course which your AP credits satisfy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-4-DtM6V4dKaJ\" aria-controls=\"section-1-4-DtM6V4dKaJ\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">10-Year Exemption<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-4-DtM6V4dKaJ\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-4-DtM6V4dKaJ\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>All prerequisite science courses must be completed within 10 years of the application submission year. Exceptions to the 10-year science prerequisite time frame may be granted on an individual basis to individuals who have completed one of the following:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>A minimum of eight semester units of graduate credit in a medically-related natural science discipline, with at least a 3.0 GPA, completed within seven years of the application deadline, or<\/li>\n<li>Received an advanced degree in the natural sciences, clinical sciences, or other appropriate disciplines within 10 years of the application deadline.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>In either case, all coursework completed and degrees conferred must be from institutions of higher education which are accredited by a regional accrediting agency recognized by the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education. Requests for this 10-year exemption should be directed to uscpa@usc.edu.<\/p>\n<p>It is the responsibility of the applicant to submit all requested documents in support of this request and to ensure that these documents were received. The Chair of Admissions will review all submitted documents and render a decision to the applicant within two weeks of document receipt. All decisions are final. If an exemption is not granted and the applicant wishes to continue the application process, then the applicant will need to complete the prerequisites as specified.<\/p>\n<p>Requests to waive the 10-year requirement will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Chair of Admissions, and a strong history of continued scientific contributions in the applicant\u2019s career will be considered. Applicants should provide evidence of their continuation in a scientific or health-related field as part of their 10-year extension request.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-5-DtM6V4dKaJ\" aria-controls=\"section-1-5-DtM6V4dKaJ\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Clinical Experience<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-5-DtM6V4dKaJ\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-5-DtM6V4dKaJ\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>Hands-on, paid, patient care clinical experience is preferred. Please refer to our <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/Approved-Patient-Care-Experience-2025.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">list of common clinical experiences<\/a>. Other healthcare experience is equally acceptable as long as the clinical experience is hands-on in nature. It is important that PA applicants are familiar with medical environments, the role of a physician assistant, and have experience working with patients. Volunteer clinical experience is also considered in the application process and should be entered into the CASPA application. Applicants are encouraged to describe their paid and volunteer hands-on patient care experiences.<\/p>\n<h4><strong><span style=\"color: #993300\">Application Cycle 2026-2027 Update<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Please note that the following and similar type of roles will no longer be accepted for patient care experience starting in the 2026-2027 application cycle: Community Health Worker, Dietitian Aide, Health Educator, Health Site Support Staff, Lifeguard, Patient Escort, Pharmacy Technician.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-6-DtM6V4dKaJ\" aria-controls=\"section-1-6-DtM6V4dKaJ\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Community Service Activities<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-6-DtM6V4dKaJ\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-6-DtM6V4dKaJ\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>Applicants are expected to demonstrate a commitment to community service. Service that benefits underserved or disadvantaged groups is highly desirable as the program has a commitment to training its students as primary care providers with these populations. This can include experiences with Habitat for Humanity, Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of America, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, tutoring, soup kitchens, and homeless shelters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-7-DtM6V4dKaJ\" aria-controls=\"section-1-7-DtM6V4dKaJ\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Shadowing Experiences<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-7-DtM6V4dKaJ\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-7-DtM6V4dKaJ\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>It is not required to shadow a PA, and we do not have a minimum number of required hours for the admissions process. However, shadowing experience is highly recommend for your personal and professional development. Shadowing can be observing a PA in the care of patients, working alongside a PA on a day-to-day basis, or attending virtual shadowing opportunities. Examples of virtual shadowing include Telehealth, provider platforms, and websites that offer case studies provided by a PA. The goal of shadowing is to help an applicant articulate the role of a PA and explain why they want to be a PA.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-8-DtM6V4dKaJ\" aria-controls=\"section-1-8-DtM6V4dKaJ\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Letters of Reference<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-8-DtM6V4dKaJ\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-8-DtM6V4dKaJ\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>A minimum of two (2) letters of reference are required with a maximum of five (5) letters allowed through the CASPA application process. Additional letters will not be considered by the program. Reference letters should not be from personal friends or family members. Letters of reference must be submitted directly through CASPA no later than September 1. No exceptions. References can include physician assistants, science professors, physicians, nurses, or other mentors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-9-DtM6V4dKaJ\" aria-controls=\"section-1-9-DtM6V4dKaJ\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Personal Interview<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-9-DtM6V4dKaJ\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-9-DtM6V4dKaJ\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>After applications have been reviewed, selected applicants will be invited for an interview. Interviewees are required to submit a passport-sized photo ID. Interviews are conducted in Alhambra or virtually between September to March each cycle. Interviews are conducted on a rolling basis and are subject to cancellation if the cohort is fully seated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-10-DtM6V4dKaJ\" aria-controls=\"section-1-10-DtM6V4dKaJ\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Health Requirements and Technical Standards<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-10-DtM6V4dKaJ\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-10-DtM6V4dKaJ\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>All accepted candidates are required to meet the program\u2019s technical standards (physical and psychological competencies of performance) prior to and throughout the program. Upon acceptance, students will be required to submit and maintain evidence of their current health status and immunizations. Students are also required to maintain university-approved health care insurance coverage while enrolled in the program. The university offers a health plan; for more information, email studenthealth@usc.edu or visit the <a href=\"https:\/\/studenthealth.usc.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">USC Student Health website<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n          <\/ul>\n  \n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":true,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-33","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v26.9 (Yoast SEO v26.9) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Admission - Physician Assistant Program<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/admission\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Admission\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/admission\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Physician Assistant Program\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-01-09T19:17:31+00:00\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"12 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/admission\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/physician-assistant-program\/admission\/\",\"name\":\"Admission - 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