California State University, San Bernardino has canceled its long-planned Master of Science Physician Assistant program after failing to secure provisional accreditation needed to launch the program, according to the San Bernardino Sun.
The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant denied the university’s accreditation application in August, shortly before the first cohort of about 40 students was set to begin the program.
The accrediting agency denied the university’s application based on several citations, including that the university “did not provide its program with sufficient personnel to operate,” according to a letter from program leaders to students obtained by the publication.
The program was designed to help alleviate physician shortages by recruiting students from the region’s diverse applicant pool and encouraging them to remain in the area after graduation. It would have been the only PA program among California State University’s 23 schools and the first at a public university in the region, according to the report.
In a statement on its website, Cal State San Bernardino said it is not currently enrolling students or accepting applications for the 27-month program.
“CSUSB is disheartened to share this news after years of preparation and unwavering support from elected leaders, healthcare partners, and our local community,” the university said. “Although accreditation was not granted, the mission and vision that inspired this program continue to guide the University. CSUSB remains committed to creating innovative solutions that expand the healthcare workforce and strengthen the wellbeing of the Inland Empire.”
The university told the San Bernardino Sun that it’s working with partners to determine whether program funds can be transferred to other health-related programs. Students’ admissions deposits were also refunded. Read the full story here.
