University of Montana launching physician associate program

MISSOULA, Mont. - The University of Montana announced on Thursday that it would launch a brand-new physician associate program in the fall of 2026. It is set to be the first PA program offered by a public university in the state.

The university said interest in the program is already strong, with over 600 applications submitted before the program was granted accreditation. Only 24 spots will be available in the PA program each year.

According to UM, the state of Montana needs 20 new PAs each year "to keep up with baseline healthcare needs and industry growth."

"Physician associates can do much of the same work that a physician can do," UM College of Health Dean Dr. Matt Fete said. "There’s a variety of medicine you can get into."

The curriculum will span over 26 months, with the first 12 months being comprised of pre-clinical instruction. During the following year of clinical training, students will undergo seven rotations including family medicine, women's health, internal medicine, pediatrics and more. 

"Montanans love Montana,” Fete said. "And so, there's the value in our students returning as professionals and taking on new students who return as professionals. It’s a cycle that really meets the needs of Montana"