Physician Assistant Program

The physician assistant practices under the supervising physician and is able to see patients and perform procedures as approved by the supervising physician. Generally, there is more schedule flexibility and less responsibility in this role. Some states are more accepting of PAs than others. PAs do have some authority to write pharmaceutical prescriptions.

Undergraduate preparation is similar to that needed for M.D. programs, with the addition of significant clinical experience needed to obtain acceptance to state university PA training programs. There are a number of private university PA programs of varying quality and reputation. The entrance exam is generally the Graduate Records Exam (GRE). Programs of study vary in length but last about 3 years after the undergraduate degree is completed.

Additional Information

American Association of Physician Assistants