California Baptist University PA Program: Requirements, Tuition & Stats

Who This Program May Be A Good Fit For

  • Middle-of-the-pack GPA — The average accepted overall GPA (3.74) is close to the national middle, so a solid-but-not-spectacular academic record is genuinely competitive here.

  • The minimum is not the target — The stated minimum GPA is 3.2, but the average accepted is 3.74 — a gap of 0.54. Meeting the floor gets you screened in, not admitted.

  • Experience-heavy — A 1,000-hour patient care minimum is at or above the national 75th percentile. Plan on a year or more of full-time work before you apply.

  • Faster to practice — At 24 months, this program is shorter than most. That means less tuition and earlier income, but a denser schedule with little slack.

  • Higher cost — In-state tuition of $123,660 is in the most expensive quarter nationally. Worth weighing against your expected starting salary and loan burden.

  • Strong PANCE outcomes — A first-time PANCE pass rate of 100% is above the national average.

  • Stricter prerequisite grades — A minimum of B- in prerequisites is tougher than the typical C. Recheck your transcript before you invest in the application.

  • Recency matters — Prerequisites expire after 5 years (recommended). Older science coursework may need to be retaken.

Program Details

California Baptist University is located in California. The details below come straight from the program and are re-checked on a rolling basis.

At a glance

  • Location: California

  • Institution type: Private

  • Program length: 24 months

  • Class size: 30 students

  • Start month: September

  • Application deadline: January

  • In-state tuition: $123,660

  • Average overall GPA: 3.74

  • Average science GPA: 3.66

  • Minimum overall GPA: 3.2

  • Minimum science GPA: 3

  • Minimum PCE hours: 1,000 hours

  • Letters of recommendation: 3

  • First-time PANCE pass rate: 100%

  • Accreditation status: Continued

Admission requirements

  • GRE: Yes

  • PA-CAT: No

  • CASPer: No

  • TOEFL (international applicants): Yes

  • Supplemental application: Yes

  • Shadowing: Recommended

  • Letters of recommendation: 3 — Professor OR PA OR Physician (MD/DO) OR Supervisor OR Clergy*

  • Patient care experience: 1,000 hours minimum

  • Interview format: Selected applicants will attend and participate in the interview process. This will be an all-day activity which includes a face-to-face interview, screening tests in basic math and English composition (70% passing score required for both).

Prerequisites

  • Minimum prerequisite grade: B-

  • Prerequisite expiration: 5 years (recommended)

  • In-progress prerequisites accepted: Yes

  • AP or CLEP credit accepted: Yes

  • Pass/Fail coursework accepted: No

  • Online coursework accepted: No

Required coursework

  • 1. Human Anatomy & Physiology with Lab (I & II); OR a combination of courses covering all human systems—8 units (1 year)

  • 2. General Chemistry with Lab (I & II)—8 units (1 year); OR a combination of three separate courses in Organic, Inorganic, Biochemistry—12 units

  • 3. Microbiology with Lab—3–4 units

  • 4. Genetics—2–3 units

  • 5. Psychology (General, Developmental, or Abnormal)—3–4 units (1 course)

  • 6. Mathematics (College Algebra, Calculus, Pre-Calculus, Statistics)—3 units (1 course)

  • 7. English/Writing—6–8 units (1 year)

  • 8. Social Sciences/Humanities —9 units (3 courses)

Recommended: Biochemistry Molecular Biology Statistics Medical Terminology

Cost

  • In-state tuition: $123,660

  • Seat deposit: $1,000

Want to compare your stats to this program? Pre-PA Bestie is a free, always-updated PA program database where you can save schools and see how your numbers line up. Check out Pre-PA Bestie.

Listen: inside the California Baptist University PA program

We have talked with people connected to this program on The Pre-PA Club podcast. Press play to hear it directly from them.

Episode show notes, takeaways & chapters

Marianne Stahovich shares her unique journey as a PA and educator, providing a window into the dynamic world of physician assistant education. With over 25 years of experience, she reflects on the evolution of PA programs and the increasing accessibility of master's degree options. Stahovich's narrative underscores the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of the rigorous demands of PA school. She encourages students to embrace a flexible mindset, recognizing that the transition from undergraduate studies to PA education requires significant adjustments in study habits and time management. Throughout the discussion, key components of a successful PA application are highlighted, such as the need for substantial hands-on patient care experience and the ability to communicate effectively during interviews. Stahovich stresses the importance of demonstrating respect and understanding towards instructors, who have firsthand experience in the field. This episode not only informs prospective students about the application process but also inspires them to cultivate a strong sense of community and support amongst their peers, which is vital for success in PA school and beyond.

What we cover

  • Understanding the insights of a PA admissions director can significantly enhance your application strategy.
  • Marianne Stahovich emphasizes the importance of clearly differentiating healthcare experience from personal care experience.
  • Successful PA students are adaptable and willing to refine their study strategies throughout their education.
  • Networking within specialty organizations can provide valuable opportunities and resources for aspiring PAs.
  • Flexibility in geographic location when applying to PA programs can open up more opportunities.
  • The growth of the PA profession has led to diverse career paths and specializations for new graduates.

Chapters

  • 0:13 – Introduction to the Pre-PA Club Podcast
  • 2:55 – Insights on PA Education and Career Progression
  • 15:39 – Transitioning to Education in the PA Profession
  • 19:38 – Transitioning into PA School: Challenges and Expectations
  • 27:10 – Understanding Program Fit for Applicants
  • 37:42 – Exploring Career Pathways in Healthcare

Program Contact

Program information last verified June 11, 2026. Requirements change — always confirm directly with the program before applying.

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