Take the Leap! Transitioning into PA Education

With the increased demand for PAs in the healthcare community, the number of PA programs in the country has doubled from 154 in 2010 (Hooker et al., 2011) to 308 in 2024 (ARC-PA, n.d.). The ARC-PA predicts there could be as many as 352 by 2027 (ARC-PA, n.d.). Recruiting and retaining PA faculty, many of whom transition to higher education directly from clinical practice, is essential for the success of PA programs nationwide. Faculty roles within PA programs vary drastically from traditional lecture teaching to clinical- and research-focused positions. Additionally, some faculty participate in admissions, diversity and inclusion efforts, leadership positions, mentoring, service, scholarship, and global health initiatives. The possibilities of a faculty role are vast! This session aims to provide an overview of the many different facets of PA education as well as the pathways to transition into academia.