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How can I become a Physician Assistant?
I'm in high school and I dream of becoming a physician Assistant. I need tips of becoming a Physician Assistant. #physician #medicine #healthcare
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Kelly’s Answer
I had planned on becoming a PA, but changed course just before applying to the PA school when an opportunity presented itself to work in the Prescription Benefit Management part of health care.
I decided on a program through Midwestern that required you to have a 4 year bachelors degree first from any accredited university and then you complete a 2 year Master's degree with them to become a PA. It is easier if you get your bachelor's degree in biology and/or chemistry since medicine relies heavily on knowledge of both.
I have heard of programs that you start right after high school that gets you to a PA in 5 years, but I don't know much about them. Either way, it helps if you love the sciences, are curious about anatomy and physiology, and want to help people.
Research what schools near you offer Physician Assistant degrees and read up on their entry requirements.
I decided on a program through Midwestern that required you to have a 4 year bachelors degree first from any accredited university and then you complete a 2 year Master's degree with them to become a PA. It is easier if you get your bachelor's degree in biology and/or chemistry since medicine relies heavily on knowledge of both.
I have heard of programs that you start right after high school that gets you to a PA in 5 years, but I don't know much about them. Either way, it helps if you love the sciences, are curious about anatomy and physiology, and want to help people.
Kelly recommends the following next steps:
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Karen’s Answer
Hi there, the initial steps to becoming a Physician's Assistant are similar to those for other healthcare professions. While you are still in high school, you'll want to take challenging math and science courses. Then, once in college, you'll likely want to major in health sciences, biology, or chemistry. But don't overlook some social science courses (psychology, anthropology, etc) as well. Following college, you'll need to get another degree to become a physician's assistant. You may want to research the entrance requirements for these programs in advance, to ensure that you're taking the right courses in college. Good luck!