Why Become a PA?
Pathways to Admission
500+ SCHOOLS VISITED
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18,000 + STUDENTS SUPPORTED
ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES
A PA is known as a physician assistant or physician associate. These types of medical professionals focus on primary patient care and work alongside medical doctors.
One major incentive to become a PA is the noted work/life balance that comes with the profession. Unlike medical doctors, who are often on-call, becoming a PA allows you to have time outside of your career for hobbies, family and other activities.
Becoming a Physician Assistant also comes with a competitive salary (typically 100,000+) with much less time spent in schooling overall than other medical programs such as an MD or DO.
PA’s are also able to provide direct patient care since they are licensed medical professionals. Going to PA school is a great way to pursue your medical dream if you wish to work in the medical field, perform minor procedures, and diagnose & treat various illnesses.
Steps to Becoming a PA
To become a licensed physician assistant or physician associate you will need to complete the following steps:
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Complete your PA school prerequisites
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Apply to an accredited PA program (typically 3 years in length)
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Become certified by passing the PANCE (Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam)
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Obtain your state license from the state in which you plan to practice
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Maintain your certification through ongoing continuing education
PA School Requirements
Like most graduate programs, PA school requires a specific set of prerequisites upon admission to the program. These prerequisites typically include:
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Anatomy
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Physiology
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Biochemistry
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Biology
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Microbiology
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Chemistry
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Organic Chemistry
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English Composition/Writing
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Genetics
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Medical Terminology
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Psychology (general)
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Statistics
While most students complete these prerequisites during their undergraduate schooling, there are some students who can pursue the pre-professional phase.
The 4-6 year long pre-professional track, or “fast track” allows a number of recent high school graduates (typically with some college credit) to pursue their PA degree without specifically needing their Bachelor’s degree.
PA schools also prefer to see some prior experience with hands-on patient care, so keep that in mind. This experience can be gained by working as a paramedic, medical assistant, lab tech and more.
We will help you:
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Plan to complete & review the PA program prerequisites
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Navigate the PA application process with calm and ease
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Prepare for the required medical examinations
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Transcript will be reviewed along with academic advising
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Assist in developing top-choice and secondary PA program lists
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Determine PA school application timeline and completion
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Work through Interview preparation & practice interviewing skills
How Pathways Will Help You Become a PA
Like many other medical career paths, becoming a PA involves a lot of preparation and hard work. Pathways is here to help with the entire PA school path and admissions process. You’ll receive the support you need to succeed thanks to Pathways’ many years of college consulting experience..
Ginny is a warm and knowledgeable professional! As a former high school college counselor and pediatric nurse, she really understands how to relate to young adults. In addition, she knows the nuances of nearly every college and has relationships with many admissions counselors. This is a stressful time and having her navigate the path to a successful college match was invaluable. I recommend her highly.
