SAMIH
An Exciting New Chapter for the PA Program
The move of the Physician Assistant (PA) Program to SAMIH at the UTSC Campus marks a transformational step forward—not just for the program, but for the future of healthcare education. At the heart of this move is the Scarborough Academy of Medicine and Integrated Health (SAMIH)—a bold and innovative initiative designed to reimagine how healthcare professionals are trained, connected, and supported.
A Purpose-Built Home for the Future of Healthcare Education
SAMIH, the new Myron and Berna Garron Health Sciences Complex, is more than just a new facility—it is a state-of-the-art hub for health education and clinical training.
This purpose-built space will provide:
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Modern simulation labs and teaching environments
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Integrated clinical and academic spaces
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Advanced, technology-enabled learning
It represents a much-needed investment in training the next generation of healthcare professionals and creates an environment where innovation, collaboration, and excellence can thrive.
Learning Together: A True Interprofessional Experience
For the first time, PA learners will be part of a fully integrated health education ecosystem, training alongside:
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Medical students
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Nurse practitioners
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Physical therapists
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Pharmacy and clinical teams
This co-location creates a dynamic, team-based learning environment that mirrors real-world healthcare—preparing students not just to practice, but to collaborate, lead, and innovate.
Rooted in Community, Driven by Purpose
SAMIH is intentionally located in Scarborough—one of the most diverse and underserved regions in the Greater Toronto Area.
This move brings the PA program closer to:
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Local hospitals and health networks
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The communities that need care the most
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Real-world clinical environments
It will:
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Strengthen connections with healthcare partners
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Improve access to care
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Help address critical healthcare gaps in the eastern GTA
SAMIH will connect learners directly with local healthcare institutions, allowing them to train in the very communities they are preparing to serve.
A Hub for Innovation, Collaboration, and Impact
SAMIH is envisioned as a central hub for healthcare education, bringing together disciplines, institutions, and communities.
It will:
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Strengthen collaboration among healthcare providers
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Foster innovation in teaching, simulation, and patient care
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Build a more connected and responsive healthcare system
At its core, SAMIH is about creating a stronger, more integrated future for healthcare—one where education, research, and patient care are seamlessly connected.
Growing with Purpose
As the PA program continues to expand, this move ensures it has the space, infrastructure, and partnerships needed to grow.
It opens the door to:
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Increased training capacity
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New program opportunities
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Deeper collaboration across disciplines
This is not just a relocation—it is a strategic investment in the future of the profession.
What Stays the Same
While the setting is evolving, the strength of the program remains unchanged:
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The program continues as a distance and distributed model
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Online learning remains central
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Clinical experiences across Ontario continue
The difference is that now, when learners come together, they will do so in a purpose-built, collaborative, and future-focused environment at UTSC.
What to expect:
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Online learning remains unchanged
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In-person Campus Blocks will take place at UTSC
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Clinical placements remain the same
Visiting SAMIH
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Transit friendly (TTC + GO Transit access)
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On-campus parking available
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Maps and directions: https://utsc.utoronto.ca/admissions/commuting-campus