If you are interested in becoming a physician assistant, a pre physician assistant program could be a strategic step in your educational plans.
Physician assistants play an instrumental role in hospitals, doctor’s offices, care facilities, and other medical practices. PAs speak with patients and provide treatment plans, offer diagnoses, and prescribe medication under the supervision of a physician. Individuals with PA training may also choose other career paths that are complemented by their training.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
Let’s take a closer look at pre physician assistant programs to see if this educational track can help you reach your career goals.
Online Pre Physician Assistant Programs
In order to receive the state licensing and certification to become a practicing physician assistant, students must complete a masters-level PA program.
To prepare for this stage of physician assistant education, you have two potential options. Each option allows you to complete the prerequisites required by a PA program. The first is to enroll in a specialized pre-PA bachelors program. The other option is to receive a bachelors degree in a related field and then complete a non-degree preparatory pre-PA program.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
As a result, the subjects studied in pre-PA bachelor’s programs and pre-PA preparatory programs are often very similar, including subjects such as:
- Health sciences (such as biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology)
- Nutrition, exercise, and wellness
- Statistics or biostatistics
- Medical terminology
You’ll also be introduced to topics such as communication skills, professional procedures, and ethics in a health care setting.
Many programs offer laboratory and hands-on clinical opportunities as well. The goal of any pre physician assistant program is to prepare students for entry into a PA program. Once in a PA program, you can work toward a career as a physician assistant by completing any state-required licensing and certification processes.
Most PA programs require a bachelors degree or at least 2 years of relevant study to be considered for admissions. When considering a career as a physician assistant, you may wish to consider which educational track is best suited to your long-term goals.
Common Online Pre Physician Assistant Majors
While PA school does not strictly require applicants to have a certain degree, certain majors can more thoroughly prepare you for the next step in your education. A background in health and behavioral sciences can be helpful for admission.
Here are some common online pre physician assistant majors:
- Biochemistry. This major provides a solid background in the biological and chemical processes that apply to medical fields.
- Bioethics and Medical Ethics. Graduates with this major will likely understand both medical policies and procedures as well as philosophical concerns.
- Kinesiology. The study of human movement and motion can assist in understanding conditions that impact mobility.
- Microbiology. Understanding health at the cellular level, including the spread and control of viruses, is often required for PA school.
- Psychology. Understanding behavioral and mental health concerns is also an important part of becoming an effective PA.
Many students who plan to continue onto a pre-physician assistant program plan their undergraduate studies accordingly to meet the prerequisites of PA school. Selecting a related major could help you prepare for the experience.
Physician Assistant Careers & Salaries
Most students pursue physician assistant education with the intention of going on to PA school and becoming a physician assistant. Some individuals complete their pre PA program and are inspired to follow a graduate path in another medical specialty, such as dentistry, physical therapy, or chiropractic.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are the median salaries of some potential career paths related to PA training.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Physician Assistants — Outpatient Care Centers | $128,430 |
| Physician Assistants — Hospitals | $127,240 |
| Physician Assistants — Offices of Physicians | $121,010 |
| Physician Assistants — Government | $106,910 |
| Physician Assistants — Educational Services | $101,040 |
| Athletic Trainers | $48,420 |
| Exercise Physiologists | $47,940 |
| Recreational Therapists | $47,940 |
| Fitness Trainers and Instructors | $40,700 |
| Medical Assistants | $37,190 |
The training you will receive through a pre physician assistant program or physician assistant bachelor programs can help prepare you for a variety of potential careers.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
Many of the subjects learned in PA graduate school serve as a gateway for careers in various types of therapy. Some individuals use this medical background as a starting point for careers related to human movement and athletics.
Pre Physician Assistant Curriculum & Courses
All pre PA programs offer their own unique curriculum. Since physician assistants are asked to complete standardized exams as part of their licensing and certification process, there are often certain PA program requirements that prepare students for these exams.
Some common courses include:
- Introduction to Health and Medical Professions: This course explores the many roles of professionals in medical settings.
- Fundamentals of Biology: This course is often an introductory course, with additional specialized courses in biology to follow.
- Anatomy and Physiology: The study of the human body and its capabilities may be combined in one course or offered as two separate courses.
- Global Health: This course provides you with a comprehensive picture of health concerns around the world.
- Medical Terminology: In this course, you’ll learn the various terms used frequently in the medical field.
- Chemistry: This course helps you understand concepts such as elements, compounds, and reactions as used in the medical field.
- Wellness and Culture: In this course, you’ll examine various cultural views toward health and healing.
- Introduction to Psychology: You can benefit from understanding the healthy function of the human mind as well as the potential for dysfunction.
- Personal Health and Safety for Medical Practitioners: The medical field can include exposure to a variety of emergencies, dangerous situations, and potential biohazards, which are examined in this course.
- Pharmacology: This course studies the benefits, side effects, and interactions of various medical drugs.
Pre PA programs often include lab time, lectures, and clinical hours as well. You can take a look at each school’s unique course listings for more details.
Admissions Requirements
Pre PA program admission requirements can vary, so it’s beneficial to review a school’s admissions policy in detail before starting the application.
Many pre physician assistant programs ask prospective students to provide:
- SAT or ACT scores (only some schools require them)
- Letters of recommendation
- Official high school transcripts
- Personal essay
You may also be asked to provide a statement of intent explaining your interest in the school and program. Some schools also have you speak with an admissions representative as part of the process.
Pre Physician’s Assistant Programs Accreditation
When selecting schools as part of your physician assistant education, you may wish to refine your search to schools that are regionally accredited. You can visit the website of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) to verify a school’s accreditation status.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
Regional accreditation recognizes a school’s higher educational standard, and attending an accredited school can be a requirement for some financial aid opportunities. Most masters programs also require applicants to hold a bachelor degree from an accredited school. In addition, employers may prefer or require candidates to hold a degree from a regionally accredited school.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
If you’d like assistance paying for your pre PA program, you may wish to start your search for financial aid by completing the FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
Completing the FAFSA is the first step in applying for need-based federal aid. Additional assistance may be available through the school you select in the form of scholarships and grants. You can contact an admissions counselor regarding opportunities based on academic, athletic, or leadership performance.
Some employers also offer educational assistance or tuition reimbursement programs for employees who are interested in furthering their education. Private or professional organizations may also have scholarship opportunities for PA school students.
What Degree Does a Physician Assistant Need?
Many organizations and licensing boards require a masters-level education before granting certification to practice as a physician assistant.
Students who wish to become physician assistants may choose to complete specialized fast-track programs that include the preparatory skills for those who wish to attend PA school. Others may receive a bachelor’s degree in a related field and attend pre-PA programs.
Some pre PA programs may not provide a degree. Instead, they can help prepare you for PA school and eventual certification as a physician assistant.
Can You Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Physician Assistant Studies?
Since becoming a PA requires a master’s degree, physician assistant bachelor programs do not typically exist as standalone programs.
Students are often encouraged to earn a degree in a related field—such as biology, physiology, or behavioral science—before attending PA school. Pre-PA bachelor programs can also help students develop the prerequisite skills for entry into a Master of Physician Assistant Studies program.
Some schools offer direct-entry or fast-track programs that allow you to jointly earn a bachelors and masters degree in PA, accelerating your timeline for becoming a practicing physician assistant.
What Can You Do with a Pre Physician Assistant Degree?
Most students earn a pre physician assistant degree with the intention of pursuing PA school and becoming a physician assistant. Others choose to build on the skills learned in their pre PA programs through a medical program in another specialty, such as physical therapy, nutrition, or dentistry.
Pre PA programs encourage students to receive a broad education in a variety of topics relevant to the medical field. As a result, some students choose to pivot into roles in nutrition, fitness, or recreational therapy. Individuals who plan to work with others’ physical and physiological well-being—including trainers and exercise physiologists—may also benefit from a PA program.
How Long Is a Pre Physician Assistant Program Online?
Online pre physician assistant programs typically take 2 to 4 years to complete, depending on the university and the type of program.
Each school’s curriculum will indicate the number of credit hours required for graduation. This may include online coursework as well as hands-on experience coordinated through your pre PA program. Many pre-PA programs can be completed in 2 years of full-time study. A specialized bachelor’s program for prospective PAs will likely take longer, as bachelors degrees are often structured as 4 year programs.
Is a Bachelor in Pre Physician Assistant Worth It?
Yes, a bachelor in pre physician assistant is worth it for many students. If you wish to become a physician assistant, graduating from a pre PA program is a key step in your educational journey.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
Pre PA programs can help you build a solid foundation for a masters program in physician assistant studies. This field is also in high demand. Overall, roles in healthcare are expected to see 13% job growth over the next ten years, and 28% job growth is projected for PAs (Bureau of Labor Statistics). These growth rates are much faster than the average for all occupations.
Universities Offering Online Bachelors in Pre Physician Assistant Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
The Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences program at Carlow University offers a Pre-Physician Assistant specialty. The curriculum covers fundamental aspects of physician assistant roles, like patient examination, diagnosis, and treatment. Classes meet primarily online, though some online learning opportunities may be available. Most students attending full-time can complete the degree in 3 years.
Carlow University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Kettering College offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences. Students can select a concentration in Healthcare Management, Pre-Occupational Therapy, Pre-Physician Assistant, or Pre-Physical Therapy. All classes meet entirely online. On average, students can complete the degree requirements in 4 years of full-time study.
Kettering College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
South College offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Science with a Pre-Physician Assistant specialization. This program is designed for students who intend to pursue a physician assistant master’s program. Classes cover topics like healthcare administration, law and ethics, research methods, leadership, and health policy. Students can attend classes online or at one of several campuses.
South College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Michigan—Flint offers a Bachelor’s in Health Sciences. Students who want to pursue a career in the healthcare sector but are undecided about their specific role may find an excellent next step in this program. Pre-professional tracks are available for fields like physician assistantship, physical therapy, medicine, dental, pharmacy, optometry, and environmental health.
The University of Michigan – Flint is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The Bachelor of Science in Natural Sciences program at the University of Pittsburgh offers a Pre-Physician Assistant concentration. The program uses a blended online and in-person class format. Students must complete a minimum of 120 credits to graduate. Potential classes include Human Anatomy and Physiology, Developmental Psychology, Medical Terminology, and Introduction to Human Nutrition.
The University of Pittsburgh is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Getting Your Bachelors in Pre Physician Assistant Online
Physician assistants are essential in the medical world, and PAs offer quality medical care to a range of patients. In order to become a physician assistant, you can follow the educational steps required for certification.
Since licensure requires a masters, earning a bachelors in pre physician assistant or completing an accredited pre PA program can help you prepare for PA school. A number of accredited schools even offer these programs online, allowing for more convenience and flexibility.
If you’re ready to start your journey toward a rewarding career in the medical field, you can start researching accredited schools today to see which pre PA programs are a good fit for you and your goals.
