Explore Physician Assistant

Post-baccalaureate degree: Masters

physician assistant discussing test results with colleague

Physician assistants (PAs) are health care professionals who practice medicine under the supervision of a licensed physician. PAs provide physical exams, order and administer tests, make diagnoses, and treat illnesses. PAs work in a variety of settings including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and surgical centers. They are qualified to practice in over 60 specialty areas.

See also: Academic and Career Information for Physician Assistant (PDF)

On this page:

Minimum Prerequisites for Admission

The following are general prerequisites. Please consult the for specific program requirements.

  • bachelor's degree
  • each program has its own prerequisites: check specific school for prerequisites details
  • general course prerequisites:
    • English, one year
    • general biology with lab, one year
    • general chemistry with lab, one year
    • anatomy and physiology
    • psychology and/or sociology
    • microbiology with lab
    • statistics
    • biochemistry with lab
    • medical terminology
  • clinical health care experience (direct patient contact experience), about 1000 hours

Test Needed

  • Graduate Record Examination (GRE) - . Required by most schools.

Application Service

California Physician Assistant Schools

Explore ALL Physician Assistant Programs

The is a valuable resource for prospective applicants and current PAEA members, used to find information about all PA programs in one place.