PA Student Resources
The Physician Assistant (PA) program, the School of Medicine and Public Health and UW–Madison offer a variety of services and resources to support students.
Student Handbook, Policies and Requirements
For information on policies and processes applicable to students in the program, refer to the PA student handbook (DOC), PA student policy library and PA compliance requirements.
Academic Support
All incoming PA students are paired with a faculty mentor. This is a formal relationship with regularly scheduled meetings to track academic and professional progress.
PA faculty/staff have an open-door policy and students may go to whomever they feel the most comfortable with to discuss personal concerns. We know that life happens and to expect the unexpected. We strongly encourage students to keep the PA program informed of all things that could potentially affect their PA training. Keeping us informed allows us to support you in finding a way forward.
Incoming students are also paired with a peer mentor. Your peer mentor will initiate correspondence to introduce themselves and offer support based on their personal experiences. Your peer mentor will help you navigate the UW and available resources, share best practices for successfully progressing through your training, provide tips for overcoming obstacles and fears, and serve as a trusted ally and advocate.
Community
In alignment with the School of Medicine and Public Health, we are committed to creating a learning and working environment where all people feel valued, included and empowered. Our organizational values include respecting the rights, dignity, and differences of all, and working to ensure that with every person, every action and every time, we are building a collegial and respectful community.
Libraries
Ebling Library
Ebling Library, located in the Health Sciences Learning Center (HSLC), has extended hours for students pursuing degrees in health professions. Ebling is an excellent place to study and maintains a fascinating collection of historical materials.
UW–Madison Libraries
There are more than 20 campus libraries on the campus with available study spaces.
Health and Wellness
Resources are available for students at the UW School of Medicine and Public Health to help maintain physical and mental health.
University Health Services
University Health Services (UHS) offers high-quality medical, mental health, prevention and wellness services to all UW–Madison students, including health professions students. Services include a primary care clinic and specialty clinics for immunizations, women’s health, travel and sexual health. For students requiring other types of specialty care, UHS can refer to providers off campus.
Tuition and Aid
More about PA program tuition and aid
*Also see MyUW: Student Center (UW NetID required)
Financial Wellness
Managing your finances while meeting your academic requirements can be challenging. The UW School of Medicine and Public Health offers advising on financial aid and financial wellness, to ensure you are making the best possible decisions for your future. Reach out to Brianne Camacho, Director of Financial Aid and Financial Wellness Advising.
Emergency Financial Support
Thanks to the generous support of our donors, the school can assist health professions students by promoting financial wellness with limited support through the Health Professions Student Emergency Support Fund.
Military Veterans
Are you a veteran of the armed forces? UW–Madison offers resources to help you navigate your experience here, including benefits information and being called to active duty. For insights from a veteran in the PA program, reach out to faculty member and PA program graduate Brian McComb.
Professional Organizations
Student American Academy of PAs
Part of the American Academy of PAs, Student American Academy of PAs (SAAPA) has student chapters across the nation. The Student Academy’s Assembly of Representatives annually elects and appoints PA student leaders who represent PA students around the country. For information on the UW–Madison student chapter contact the PA program office at paprogram@med.wisc.edu.
Wisconsin Academy of Physician Assistants
Comprised of more than 2,600 Wisconsin PAs, Wisconsin Academy of Physician Assistants (WAPA) supports careers of its members and promotes the PA profession.
American Academy of PAs
This national professional society represents more than 131,000 PAs across the country, in all medical and surgical specialties. The American Academy of PAs (AAPA) advocates and educates on behalf of the profession and the patients PAs serve.
Other Professional Organizations
Living in Madison
Madison, Wisconsin is a city for all seasons (yes, even winter). From relaxing lakeside at Memorial Union Terrace to enjoying the natural splendor of the UW Arboretum, Madison is the perfect place to live, study and play.