California Baptist University College of Health Science
“The College of Health Science was founded upon the principle of transforming lives through the health professions. The college’s faculty members have answered their calling to serve and prepare the next generation of professionals for careers in patient care, wellness, fitness and more. We all share a passion for service in the image of Jesus, and we welcome you to come explore your talents and calling from God.”
David Pearson, PhD Dean, College of Health Science
Program Distinctives
01
Hands-On Experience
Gain practical experience in state-of-the-art learning labs and dedicated student study spaces.
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Learn in a Cohort
Move through the program with the support of a small cohort and caring faculty members.
Christian Worldview
Learn in a faith-based environment where medical education is mixed with community service and other scholarly activities.
Community Based
Collaborate and establish relationships with students in other health science disciplines.
Program Details at a Glance
Program Length
116 units
2 years, full time (6 consecutive semesters)
Program Cost*
$20,610 per semester program tuition and fees
Program Start Term
Fall (early September)
Class Format
Classes meet Monday–Friday 8AM–6PM. Clinical rotations will vary and may include nights and weekends.
*Based on current academic year. Subject to change.
Accreditation
WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA)
Transforming lives through the health professions
Alumni Spotlights
Why should CBU be on your short list for PA schools? Four CBU students who are also recipients of a National Health Service Corps Scholarship share about their experience and give advice to future applicants.
Q: Why do you want to become a Physician Assistant?
A: I wanted the opportunity to practice medicine in various specialties throughout my career, and the lateral mobility that the PA profession offers was appealing. In addition, I am a National Health Service Corps Scholar, and the ability to change specialties will help me and my PA colleagues to meet the growing health demands of underserved diverse communities.
- Srisha Jhangiani, Class of 2023
Q: What about CBU caught your eye when applying to grad programs?
A: The mission of CBU, succinctly distilled as the “Core 4”: Academically Prepared, Biblically Rooted, Globally Minded, and Equipped to Serve, caught my eye when applying to grad programs. I knew CBU would push me to live out my faith and purpose as a physician assistant through good works, translated to a level of clinical and professional responsibility, to empower vulnerable populations by improving access to healthcare and by establishing positive patient-provider relationships.
- Chelsey Cheatham, Class of 2024
Q: What was one of the most valuable things you are learning at CBU?
A: One of the things I value most about this program is its strong emphasis on interprofessional collaboration. Each semester, we attend a campus-wide event with other healthcare professionals from different disciplines to learn how to work effectively and efficiently as a team to improve patient outcomes.
- Frances Relampagos, Class of 2023
Q: What is one piece of advice you would give to someone looking to apply to this program?
A: I would advise prospective students to consider going through the application process with intention. I said “yes” to the opportunities that best aligned with my values and offered the most support in helping me grow as a student, future clinician, and person.
- Alyssa Ayudante, Class of 2024
In the whirlwind of life, my passion for learning has been a steadfast companion. Unsure of whether my future lay in the halls of academia or the corridors of medicine, I immersed myself in the undergraduate study of Human Development at UC San Diego. However, it wasn’t until I uncovered the intricacies of the PA profession that my path truly unfolded. Enthralled by the prospect of practicing medicine with autonomy and fostering collaborative care, I pursued my studies at WesternU PA School. Beginning my PA career in the field of family medicine, I honed my skills in primary care, navigating the diverse landscape of patient needs across the lifespan. The lateral mobility inherent in the PA profession paved the way for a new calling and an unexpected opportunity in neurosurgery—a specialty I never imagined myself in, but one that sparked a newfound passion within me.
In 2020, my journey as an educator seamlessly intertwined with my PA career as I assumed the role of full-time faculty in the PA Studies Department at CBU. Witnessing both of my undergraduate aspirations materialize—serving as both an educator and a medical provider—has been an immense blessing. As the director of clinical education for the CBU PA studies program, I have embraced the opportunity to help guide the next generation of PAs, embodying generative concern and paving the way for their professional growth. Collaborating with esteemed PA faculty and staff, I take pride in mentoring and educating our students to embody professionalism, ethics, sensitivity, compassion, and selflessness.
Diverse scholarly pursuits fuel my passion for discovery, inspiring a range of interests. I have contributed to studies exploring the efficacy of autologous intraventricular stem cell administration
Faculty Spotlight
Karlyssa Chung, MSPAS, PA-C
Assistant Professor; Director of Clinical Education, Physician Assistant Studies
in combating neurodegenerative conditions, with a particular focus on Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, my investigations have explored the outcomes of patients with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) following treatment with a Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt. Beyond the operating room, my research endeavors encompass topics in PA education, where I am deeply engaged in projects aimed at equipping students with the skills to deliver difficult news with empathy and proficiency. Furthermore, I am committed to integrating mental health awareness into the PA curriculum and understanding the motivating factors that drive community healthcare providers to become clinical preceptors for PA students. As I navigate the intersection of medicine and academia, I remain driven by a boundless curiosity and an unwavering dedication to advancing both the art and science of healthcare.
The most enriching moments of my career stem from my commitment to lifelong learning. There is an undeniable excitement when former students return to the program as clinical preceptors, their journeys coming full circle as they impart their wisdom to the next generation. Attending PA education and professional conferences is a highlight, immersing myself in the vibrant community of hundreds of dedicated individuals striving to enhance PA education, patient care, and clinical practice. Yet, it’s the energy and enthusiasm of being surrounded by students that truly invigorates me, infusing each day with a sense of purpose and enduring legacy that I am truly grateful to be a part of.
Degree Requirements
Applicant Criteria
• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university which is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and/or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, or the evaluated equivalency.
• A minimum CASPA overall GPA of 3.2.
• A minimum CASPA overall science GPA of 3.0.
• A minimum CASPA prerequisite GPA of 3.0.
• Minimum of 1,000 hours of patient care experience.
• An applicant whose first language is not English and/or does not have a degree from an institution where English is the primary language of instruction is required to demonstrate English proficiency by submitting a recent TOEFL or IELTS score.
Prerequisites*
• Human Anatomy & Physiology I & II with Lab (2 courses) or a combination of courses covering all human systems (1 year)
• General Chemistry I & II with Lab (2 courses) or Organic, Inorganic & Biochemistry with Labs (3 courses)
• Microbiology with Lab (1 course)
• Genetics (1 course)
• Psychology—General, Developmental or Abnormal (1 course)
• Mathematics—College Algebra, Pre-Calculus, Calculus or Statistics (1 course)
• English/Writing (2 courses)
• Social Sciences/Humanities–e.g. Sociology, History, Philosophy, Anthropology, Art, Music, Religion, Political Science, Government, Literature (3 courses)
Recommended Courses
• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Statistics
• Medical Terminology
*Must be completed with a “B-” or better
Application Checklist
Application for admissions verified through CASPA.
Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended sent to CASPA.
Three letters of recommendation from professors, medical colleagues, supervisors or clergy who can address your potential for success.
Comprehensive essay/personal statement.
Successful interview(s) for invited applicants with the Physician Assistant Admission Committee.
How to Apply
01
Apply through the Central Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA).
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Submit official college or university transcripts to CASPA. Complete CBU Supplemental Questionnaire.*
*You will receive an email with a link to the supplemental questionnaire once CASPA application is verified.
Application Deadline
Standard Verified Deadline: January 15
Ready to take the next step? Follow this QR code to start your application!
Graduate Admissions
8432 Magnolia Avenue Riverside, CA 92504
951.343.4249 calbaptist.edu
College of Health Science
Health Science Campus 3532 Monroe Street Riverside, CA 92504
