Pre-Physician Assistant
Physician assistants perform much of the same work that physicians do. They examine patients, make diagnoses, and plan and implement treatments for a wide variety of illnesses and conditions.
Physician assistants must work under the supervision of a physician, and most PA’s enjoy a considerable degree of autonomy. PA’s have plenty of choices about where they practice, too. They work in clinics, physicians’ offices, hospitals, academic medical centers, prisons, and more.
Yes, you will need to pursue a master’s degree after graduating from Elmhurst University which typically takes two to three years depending on the school.
You may choose any major, but you must complete the course requirements when applying to any physician assistant program.
Requirements for PA programs will vary so students must work directly with the individual professional schools to verify admission criteria. In making admission decisions, physician assistant programs give preference to students who have hands-on health care experience. This experience can be in a variety of credentialed and non-credentialed positions, either on a part-time or full-time basis, with compensation or as a volunteer.
Recommended courses include:
- BIO 200, 201, 315, 221 or 321, and 107/108 or 430/442
- CHM 211, 212, 311, 312, 315, 316
- ENG 105, 106
- MTH 121 or a higher course and statistics
- HST 400
- Social sciences
You will meet with the health professions to discuss your specific academic and professional interests. Your advisor will work with you throughout your Elmhurst career, clearing obstacles and giving expert guidance.
Graduates of professional programs sit for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination.
You can start by visiting these websites: