The physician assistant program at Rutgers School of Health Professions has been recognized with a significant ranking in the 2025-26 U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Schools. It now stands at No. 3 in the nation, marking the first time it has entered the top five in its 50-year history.
Previously ranked at No. 7 in 2023, the Rutgers program has advanced significantly, now positioned alongside well-known institutions such as Duke and Stanford. This is the highest ranking the program has achieved so far.
“Being ranked nationally in the top five and recognized as the best program in New Jersey helps in recruiting the best students from across the state and country,” stated Lori Palfreyman, an associate professor and director of the program.
The rankings by U.S. News & World Report are determined through peer assessment surveys conducted among deans, administrators, and faculty at accredited programs. Academic quality is judged on a scale from 1 to 5, with the surveys completed by experts from over 300 accredited programs.
The competitive program at Rutgers accepts 50 students annually from a pool of over 1,500 applicants. Its first-time pass rate on the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination is among the top 20 in U.S. News & World Report’s rankings.
Lori Palfreyman also highlighted the program’s anniversary: “As one of the longest-standing PA programs in the nation, we do not rest on our past achievements. Our excellence comes from remaining dynamic and current through data-informed assessments and quality improvements.”
Physician assistants continue to be a growing profession in the United States, with roles that include collaborating with physicians, taking patient histories, conducting exams, and more. At Rutgers, students participate in various professional activities and are involved in service-learning for practical experience.
Matthew McQuillan, chair of the Department of Physician Assistant Studies and Practice, emphasized the real-world learning opportunities: “Through our partnership with RWJBarnabas Health, New Jersey’s largest academic healthcare system, our students gain hands-on clinical experience.”
He further mentioned the H.O.P.E. Clinic: “Students develop into socially responsible, humanistic health care providers while providing primary health care needs to underserved populations.”
The Rutgers School of Health Professions offers more than 35 degree and certificate programs, boasting a nearly 100% placement rate for graduates.
