Oklahoma Baptist University has announced plans to launch a Master of Science in Physician Associate Studies program, with its inaugural cohort expected to begin in January 2027. The program is pending Accreditation-Provisional status from the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, known as ARC-PA, with a decision anticipated in October 2026.
Evidence In Motion is proud to support OBU in launching its new Physician Associate Studies program. This partnership reflects EIM’s commitment to advancing healthcare education and expanding access to high-quality PA training across the country.
OBU plans to enroll 40 students in its first class. The university says the program is designed to prepare graduates to deliver patient-centered care across a range of healthcare settings, incorporating academic coursework, clinical training and leadership development.
Hybrid Design Supports Access and Flexibility
The program will follow a hybrid format, pairing virtual coursework with periodic on-campus immersion experiences in Shawnee, OK. Students will complete most didactic first-year instruction online through a combination of live and recorded sessions, case-based learning, and simulation exercises.
On-campus sessions will concentrate on hands-on skill-building through labs, workshops and faculty-led training. The structure is intended to allow students to remain in their home communities while completing a full-time graduate program — an arrangement that university officials say broadens access for working adults and those in rural or underserved areas.
Clinical Rotations in Year Two
Second-year students will complete clinical rotations across multiple specialties, giving them experience applying medical knowledge in real-world settings and developing clinical judgment under supervision.
Each student will be paired with a faculty advisor who will provide mentorship and academic support throughout the program.
Program Leadership
Christina Hanson, a physician associate with clinical experience in primary care, orthopedics and urgent care, will serve as program director. Hanson has worked in PA education since 2012 and has held program leadership roles since 2018.
Accreditation and Enrollment
OBU's PA program has applied for Accreditation-Provisional status from ARC-PA. The university said it will matriculate its first cohort only if accreditation is granted. Prospective students can find application information and program details at okbu.edu/pa.