The Doctoral Pipeline in Physician Assistant Education

Purpose: This study examined the intentions and motivations of PA faculty regarding the pursuit of doctoral education in 2003. Variables assessed included the characteristics of faculty and the educational programs they were pursuing, including type of program and degree awarded, delivery methods, and presence or absence of institutional support. Projections were made based on the anticipated dates of graduation. Methods: A 15-item Web-based survey was sent to PA faculty identified via the Association of Physician Assistant Programs (now the Physician Assistant Education Association) faculty directory. Results: The response rate was 66.8%, with 20% of these enrolled in doctoral study. Of those currently enrolled, 48% were pursuing a doctor of philosophy (PhD) degree, 80% had 10 years or less as PA faculty, 48% attended on campus, 80% expected project completion by 2006, and 21% reported no institutional support. Of the faculty not enrolled, 41% were investigating programs, 5% planned to submit applications in the next 6 months, and 3% anticipated enrollment in the next 6 months. Conclusions: The population of doctorally prepared PA faculty will nearly double by the year 2010, with the majority completing PhD degrees via on campus delivery. While a significant number of faculty are investigating programs, few anticipate enrollment in the near future, which would result in minimal growth in the number of doctorally prepared faculty beyond 2010.