Physician Assistant graduate programs could help you prepare to examine, diagnose, and treat patients as part of a team in many areas of medicine. Physician assistant schools combine coursework and clinical experiences to provide a strong foundation of medical knowledge. Classes may cover core topics in science, pathology, human anatomy, clinical medicine, pharmacology and medical ethics. Then students participate in supervised clinic hours in several areas to gain hands on experience and prepare for the diverse challenges they may face in the field.i

Most physician assistant graduate programs are masters programs. However advanced masters programs, for licensed PAs, may also be available. Check with your preferred physician assistant schools to see which program might best serve you - you might even consider a PA program that accepts a low GPA

DID YOU KNOW? A Physician Assistant is one of the top 5 fastest growing careers with a graduate degree in 2016. Learn more about PA salary and employment outlook.iii

What Is a Physician's Assistant?

A physician’s assistant is a healthcare professional who is licensed to practice medicine as part of a team. These qualified individuals are concerned with preventing and treating human injury and illness by providing a variety of health care services under guidance of a surgeon or physician.

PAs work in all areas of medicine, including primary care and family medicine, emergency medicine, surgery, and psychiatry. Their specific responsibilities and activities depend on their specialty or the type of medical practice where they work.ii Therefore, it's important to consider your interests when selecting physician assistant graduate programs.

Physician assistants typically need a masters degree from an accredited program and state licensure to practice. To become licensed, candidates must pass the