Applying to Physician Assistant Program
The exercise science program can prepare you for admission into a physician assistant (PA) graduate program.
The exercise science program is a 125-hour comprehensive degree with a core of exercise science/human performance classes and a pre-professional option area comprised of courses that are required for admission to PA graduate programs.
Courses specific to preparation for Physician Assistant programs
| Course title | Course code |
|---|---|
| Chemistry I | |
| Chemistry II | CHM 170/171 |
| Biology I | BIO 121 |
| Microbiology | BIO 310 |
| Genetics (w/lab) | BMS 231/BIO 235 |
| Physics I | PHY 123 |
| Human Anatomy | BMS 307 |
| Human Physiology | BMS 308 |
| Organic Chemistry I (w/lab) | CHM 342 /344 |
| Biochemistry (w/lab) | CHM 352/353 |
| Abnormal Psychology | PSY 304 |
| Lifespan Development | CFD 155 |
Universities often suggest additional classes as “suggested electives,” such as immunology.
Review admission requirements for each school that you are considering. Plan to schedule any additional class that you may need.
Helpful websites
Consult these websites for information on the field of physician assistant.
- MSU's physician assistant program
- Best PA schools (U.S. News rankings)
- Physician assistant salary (in Missouri)
Work experience
Many physician assistant schools require or recommend that you have paid experience as a health care provider prior to admission.
The requirement ranges from 800 to 2,000 hours of experience. Some students choose to acquire EMS (paramedic) or Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) certification (usually programs offered by community colleges) and paid employment in those positions.
Some work as techs in hospitals (emergency room techs), in nursing homes, for home health organizations, etc.