To become a physician assistant (PA), candidates typically must first earn a bachelor’s degree with an emphasis on science coursework[1]. Most PA programs require prior healthcare experience (such as paid or volunteer work), with common minimums ranging from 500 to 1,000 hours[3].
After completing undergraduate requirements and gaining healthcare exposure, candidates must apply to and graduate from a master’s-level physician assistant program accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA)[1]. Admission to these programs is highly competitive and generally requires meeting GPA and prerequisite coursework standards (often a minimum 3.0 GPA in sciences and overall, with science prerequisites such as biology, anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, microbiology, statistics, and psychology)[3][5].
Once the master’s-level PA program is completed, graduates must pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE), administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA), to earn the PA-C (Physician Assistant-Certified) credential[2][8]. State licensure is required in addition to PANCE certification, and requirements may vary slightly by state, but typically include submission of proof of education and exam scores[4][6].
- Undergraduate requirements: Bachelor’s degree (science focus); minimum GPA and science coursework
- Healthcare experience: Between 500 and 1,000 hours (volunteer or paid)[3]
- Graduate education: Completion of a master’s PA program accredited by ARC-PA[1]
- Certification: Pass the PANCE exam to obtain PA-C credentials[2][8]
- Licensure: Apply for state license with proof of education, PANCE score, and additional documentation as required by state[4][6]
- Continuing education: Maintain certification through required continuing medical education (CME); recertification exam every ten years[2]
While physician assistants do not need to complete a residency, those seeking to specialize may do so via focused training during their PA program, on-the-job training, or a postgraduate fellowship/residency in a specific field[7]. All PAs must adhere to ongoing education and periodic recertification to retain active credentials[2].
References
- [1] Physician Assistant – Explore Healthcare Careers
- [2] PA Certification – Physician Assistant
- [3] Requirements – Atkinson Physician Assistant Education Program
- [4] How to Apply for a Physician Assistant – Full Licensure
- [5] Physician Assistant Program – PA Admission Requirements
- [6] Physician Assistant – dopl.utah.gov
- [7] Pre-Physician Assistant | University of North Texas
- [8] Become Certified – NCCPA
Leave a Reply