Virginia has some of the most competitive PA programs in the country — and some of the best values for in-state residents. Here is every program, what they require, and how to decide which ones are worth your application fee.
| Program | Location | Avg GPA | PCE Hours | Length | Tuition | Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia Commonwealth University PA Program | Richmond, VA | 3.5 | 3,000+ | 27 months | Verify current tuition | CASPA |
| Eastern Virginia Medical School PA Program | Norfolk, VA | 3.4 | 2,000+ | 26 months | Verify current tuition | CASPA |
| Jefferson College of Health Sciences PA Program | Roanoke, VA | Competitive | Verify current minimum | Verify current length | Verify current tuition | CASPA |
| Shenandoah University PA Program | Winchester, VA | Competitive | Verify current minimum | Verify current length | Verify current tuition | CASPA |
| Marymount University PA Program | Arlington, VA | Competitive | Verify current minimum | Verify current length | Verify current tuition | CASPA |
| Radford University PA Program | Radford, VA | Competitive | Verify current minimum | Verify current length | Verify current tuition | CASPA |
* Data reflects recent reported averages. Always verify directly with each program. Tuition figures are approximate and subject to change.
Dr. Tomei's Perspective
Richmond, VA · 27 months · Verify current tuition
VCU's PA program is one of the most competitive in Virginia, affiliated with VCU Health — a major academic medical center. Strong research component and access to diverse patient populations in Richmond. Confirm current GPA, PCE, and prerequisite requirements directly with the program.
Norfolk, VA · 26 months · Verify current tuition
EVMS is a well-regarded program in Hampton Roads with strong clinical partnerships across the Sentara and Bon Secours health systems. Community health focus. Review current admissions requirements before applying.
Roanoke, VA · Verify current length · Verify current tuition
Located in Roanoke and affiliated with Carilion Clinic, Jefferson gives students access to a large regional health system. Strong primary care and rural medicine exposure. Confirm current prerequisites and direct-care expectations.
Winchester, VA · Verify current length · Verify current tuition
Shenandoah's PA program is in the Northern Shenandoah Valley with access to the broader DC-metro clinical market. Good option for students committed to community and primary care medicine in a smaller-city setting.
Arlington, VA · Verify current length · Verify current tuition
Marymount's Arlington location gives students access to Northern Virginia and DC-area clinical sites. A strong option for applicants in the DC metro who want to stay in the region for training.
Radford, VA · Verify current length · Verify current tuition
Radford's PA program is a public-university option in Southwest Virginia with a focus on rural and underserved medicine. In-state tuition is a significant advantage. Review current accreditation status and requirements directly with the program.
Dr. Tomei's Perspective
Dr. Tomei helps pre-PA students build strategic school lists based on their actual stats. A free consultation can save you thousands in wasted application fees.
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