Physician Assistant
Coordinator: P. Egland
Most Pre-Physician Assistant students choose to major in Biology, but a student may choose to major in any discipline. While physician assistant programs look favorably upon an undergraduate record rich in challenging science courses, they also look for a balance between science courses and courses in the humanities and social sciences. Physician assistant programs expect that applicants have an understanding of and commitment to the profession. Students are encouraged to learn about the profession and patient care through internships, volunteer experiences and employment. Many programs require a significant patient contact experience. A career as a physician assistant is not a stepping-stone to medical school.
Most physician assistant programs have very specific admission requirements. A student interested in a career as a physician assistant should identify the physician assistant programs in which he or she is interested in attending as early as possible. Pre-physician assistant students should consult with their advisors and the coordinator on a regular basis to discuss course selection and application procedures.
Physician assistant schools select students on the basis of: 1) undergraduate academic performance; 2) GRE (Graduate Record Exam) scores; 3) patient care experience; 4) letters of evaluation from professors and other professional people; and 5) a personal interview. Admission to physician assistant school is competitive.