Becoming a physician assistant (PA) requires dedication, hard work, and successfully completing certain prerequisites. While the specific requirements may vary from program to program, there are several core prerequisites that are required for most PA schools. In this ultimate guide, we will outline everything you need to know about meeting these prerequisites and getting accepted into your dream PA program.
- Anatomy and Physiology: Anatomy and Physiology are foundational science courses that are essential for success in PA school. These courses cover the structure and function of the human body, and provide a strong foundation for understanding disease processes and medical treatments. Many PA programs require at least one semester of Anatomy and Physiology, and most require two semesters or more. You want to ace your A&P courses to prove you are ready for graduate learning!
- Biology: Biology is another core subject area for PA school. These courses cover the study of living organisms, including their structure, function, and evolution. The exact biology requirements may vary but expect two or more required courses of biology for most programs.
- Chemistry: Chemistry is often another required prerequisite for most PA programs. This course covers the study of matter and the changes it undergoes. PA programs typically require General Chemistry, and some programs may require additional courses in Organic Chemistry or Biochemistry.
- Statistics: Though not every program requires a math or STATs class, statistics is an important prerequisite for many PA schools because it provides a foundation for understanding research and evidence-based medicine. Most PA programs will require you to do a Master’s Project and knowledge or research and statistics is helpful during this process.
- Psychology: Psychology is another prerequisite that is often required for PA school. This course covers the study of human behavior and mental processes. Many PA programs require at least one semester of Psychology ans some require a specific class (i.e. abnormal psychology). Make sure you meet the psychology requirements of the programs you’re applying to.
- Medical Terminology: Even if it’s not a requirement, we recommend ALL pre-PA students have experience with medical terminology and it’s crucial for success in PA school. Med Term is a course that covers the language used in medicine. This course is essential for understanding medical terms and abbreviations, and is required for most PA programs.
- Patient Care Experience: Most PA programs require applicants to have a certain amount of patient care experience (PCE) or healthcare experience (HCE) before applying. This can include experience as a medical assistant, nurse, paramedic, or other healthcare-related job. Some programs require a minimum number of hours, while others require a certain amount of time spent in a healthcare setting.
- PA Shadowing: Shadowing experience is also required by many PA programs. This involves observing a PA in a clinical setting to gain firsthand experience of what the roles and responsibilities of the job entails. Shadowing experience can help applicants understand the role of a PA, and can provide valuable insight into the healthcare field.
Meeting the prerequisites for PA school can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By taking the necessary courses and gaining healthcare and shadowing experience, you can increase your chances of being accepted into your dream PA program. Don’t forget to reach out for guidance and support along the way!