What we look for
A mission-aligned, holistic admissions review process
The UVU PA Program strives to incorporate a holistic admissions review process. The
admissions process considers a broad range of factors - experiences, attributes, and
academic metrics - when reviewing applications. Holistic review allows the admissions
committee to consider the “whole” applicant, rather than focusing on any one factor.
- Evidence of academic strength is indicated through applicant’s overall and science
GPAs and completion of prerequisite courses
- Patient care knowledge demonstrated with direct patient and health care hours
- Keen understanding of the Physician Assistant profession through shadowing medical
professionals. Shadowing physician assistants, doctors, nurses and nurse practitioners.
We do not score shadowing hours in the application. Shadowing provides needed insight
and experience
- Professional Letters of Recommendation (see admission requirement section)
- A strong commitment to the community through consistent volunteer service that demonstrates compassion and a desire to work and serve medically
marginalized or underserved populations
- A dedicated and demonstrated work ethic
- Exemplary leadership by showing an engaged attitude
- Achievements demonstrated by honors, awards, scholarships and/or publications.
- Preference given to veterans, applicants who attended the majority of K-12 in a Utah
school district, first-generation students, and non-Utah residents (See admissions requirements section)
- Video answers to essay questions that allow the candidate to highlight their maturity,
interpersonal and communication skills that demonstrate an ability to articulate ideas
and knowledge. Applicants will be invited to do this portion of the application. Invitation
sent via email
CURRENT MATRICULATED UTAH VALLEY UNIVERSITY PA STUDENTS
Class of 2024 and 2025
(Combined Stats)
| Percentage of Female Students |
50% |
| Percentage of Male Students |
50% |
| |
|
| First-Generation Students |
24% |
| |
|
| Average Age of Students |
29 |
| |
|
| Average Cumulative GPA |
3.56 |
| Average Science GPA |
3.52 |
| |
|
| Average Leadership Hours |
1,972 |
| |
|
| Average Volunteer Hours |
1,196 |
| |
|
| Minimum Patient/Healthcare Hours |
2,805 |
| Maximum Patient/Healthcare Hours |
44,712 |
| Average Patient/Healthcare Hours |
7,565 |
Inclusion and Diversity
UVU is committed to preparing all students and employees for success in an increasingly
complex, diverse, and globalized society. We promote civility and respect for the
dignity and potential of each individual. We seek to advance the understanding of
diverse perspectives. We value and promote collegial relationships and mutual respect
among students, faculty, and staff. We acknowledge and seek to address the needs of
populations who are underrepresented and students with varying levels of academic
preparation, even as we strive to provide access and support for all students and
employees in ways that are culturally relevant and responsible.
