Too old for PA school?

Well, I graduate in May as a Respiratory Therapist and plan to work as an RT while getting my Bachelor's of RT through the University of Kansas online program. I am considering going to PA school once I am finished at KU. I am considering Wichita State and Missouri State, but my question is am I too old to be accepted into PA school...I will be 42 years old when I apply for PA school, I have a GPA of 4.0 and plan to keep my 4.0 or close to it. Also, I will have abut 4 years of paid clinical experience going in. In my mind, I am a great candidate, but question my age....and opinions?

You're never too old to go back to school, whether if it's to attain a BS in RT or going for your PA degree. I'm a mid 30 something who has a BS and a MBA, but going back to attain a AA in RT. So don't let your age hinder you. Consider it an asset to what you're bringing to THEIR program. :)

hk2517, I do agree with your point, thats why I went back to school in my mid 30s for RT. But when I do research of PA schools, their stats usually show the average age of accepted students is 26-27 years old. I am not concerned academically or socially, I just dont want my application trashed due to my age.

Hi PowerPress75,
Hrm. I hear what you're saying. I never considered the PA route myself, so I don't know how the process works (application, pre-reqs, previous work experience, etc.). But just wanted to just cheer you on.

I had no idea that some PA schools see age as a detriment. I see age and experience as positives you can bring to a working environment. Of course, age does not equate to one's maturity level. But in my experience, I'd rather work with someone in their 30s and up versus someone who's in their early 20s and cannot conduct themselves professionally in the workplace because that's just how it is in most cases.

Have you considered registered nursing? It doesn't have an age restriction.

hk2517, I appreciate the encouragement, and I agree with you about how experience and maturity can be an advantage. I do not think that PA schools would hold back a 40 something, but I was just trying to see if anyone has gone through a PA program in their 40s on this forum. As far as nursing goes, I wouldnt consider that because I have already chosen RT.

I had 3 classmates in their late 30's and 2 in their early 40's. Many programs will appreciate the experience you bring. Go for it. Students with more life experience are a real benefit for the rest of their classmates as well!

It is illegal to discriminate due to age, so there are no "restrictions" as far as that goes, and most programs appreciate the maturity and experience non-traditional students bring to the program. Go for it!!

Well it is nice to hear someone went to PA school with older students. I do realize that they cannot discriminate upon age, but they have criteria in place when selecting students for the program. When I finish my BSRT I will apply for PA school.