Point Loma Nazarene University PA Program: Requirements, Tuition & Stats
Who This Program May Be A Good Fit For
GPA-competitive: The average accepted overall GPA here (3.81) sits in the top quarter of PA programs nationally. If your GPA is below about 3.66, you will want the rest of your application, hours, letters, upward trend, to do real work.
The minimum is not the target: The stated minimum GPA is 3, but the average accepted is 3.81, a gap of 0.81. 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.
Higher cost: In-state tuition of $130,838 is in the most expensive quarter nationally. Worth weighing against your expected starting salary and loan burden.
Apply early: Admissions are rolling, so seats come off the board as the cycle goes. An application submitted in the first few weeks is worth more than the same application submitted in month four.
Newer program: This program holds provisional accreditation, which is normal for a program that has not yet graduated its first classes. Expect a smaller alumni network and fewer years of PANCE data.
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Program Details
Point Loma Nazarene 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: 28 months
Class size: 34 students
Start month: August
Application deadline: October
Rolling admissions: Yes
In-state tuition: $130,838
Average overall GPA: 3.81
Average science GPA: 3.81
Minimum overall GPA: 3
Minimum science GPA: 3
Minimum PCE hours: 1,000 hours
Letters of recommendation: 3
First-time PANCE pass rate: 93%
Accreditation status: Provisional
Admission requirements
GRE: No
PA-CAT: No
CASPer: Yes
TOEFL (international applicants): Yes
Supplemental application: Yes (fee $35)
Shadowing: Recommended
Letters of recommendation: 3
Patient care experience: 1,000 hours minimum
Interview format: Interviews will be conducted in the fall and winter either virtually or in person as safety dictates.
Prerequisites
Minimum prerequisite grade: C
Prerequisite expiration: No expiration date for completed coursework
In-progress prerequisites accepted: No
AP or CLEP credit accepted: No
Pass/Fail coursework accepted: No
Online coursework accepted: Yes
Required coursework
Human Anatomy and Physiology I: 3 semester hours or 4 quarter hours
Human Anatomy and Physiology II: 3 semester hours or 4 quarter hours
Individual Anatomy and Physiology courses are acceptable if they meet a minimum of 6 semester hours or 8 quarter hours. Labs are preferred but not required.
Microbiology: 3 semester hours or 4 quarter hours
General Chemistry with labs: 6 semester hours or 8 quarter hours
Organic Chemistry with lab: 3 semester hours or 4 quarter hours
Biochemistry: 3 semester hours or 4 quarter hours
Statistics: 3 semester hours or 4 quarter hours
Recommended: Organic Chemistry w/ Lab
Cost
In-state tuition: $130,838
Supplemental application fee: $35
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.
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Listen: inside the Point Loma Nazarene 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
In our recent discussion, Laurel Miller, an esteemed assistant professor at Point Loma Nazarene University, provided a comprehensive overview of the PA application journey. She articulated the importance of understanding the accreditation status of programs, particularly for those considering newer institutions. Laurel explained the distinction between provisional accreditation and full accreditation, advising students to evaluate the leadership and history of faculty within these programs. Furthermore, we delved into the unique elements of Point Loma's curriculum, where community service and empathy are integrated into the training of future PAs. This commitment to real-world experience helps students cultivate a deeper understanding of diverse patient needs. Laurel's insights not only illuminate the complexities of the application process but also inspire pre-PA students to engage actively with their educational journeys, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
What we cover
- Laurel Miller emphasizes the importance of gaining clinical experience before applying to PA school, as it enhances understanding of the profession.
- The application process for PA school has evolved, now allowing more candidates straight out of undergrad to apply and be accepted.
- Professionalism is crucial in the application process and interviews; it can significantly influence perceptions of a candidate.
- Students often struggle with adapting their study habits to the rigorous demands of PA school, requiring a shift from memorization to application of knowledge.
- Participating in community service during PA school is mandatory at Point Loma, fostering empathy and practical experience in various medical contexts.
- Networking with faculty and utilizing their insights is vital for pre-PA students to navigate their educational journey effectively.
Chapters
- 0:19 – Introduction to the Pre-PA Club Podcast
- 6:34 – Introduction to the PA Profession
- 13:04 – Transitioning to Academics in PA Education
- 20:43 – Navigating Provisional Accreditation in PA Programs
- 25:50 – Navigating the Challenges of PA School
- 36:28 – Understanding the Unique Aspects of PA Programs
- 36:47 – Insights into PA Programs and Professional Development
Episode: Laurel Miller - PA Professor at Point Loma Nazarene University · Follow The Pre-PA Club on Apple Podcasts or Spotify · Browse all episodes
Program Contact
Program website: Point Loma Nazarene University
Admissions page: Admissions information
Prerequisite details: Prerequisite coursework
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (619) 849-2200
Address: 3900 Lomaland Drive, San Diego, CA 92106
Program information last verified June 24, 2026. Requirements change, always confirm directly with the program before applying.
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