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Physician associates, or physician assistants (PAs), are licensed clinicians who play a critical role in the healthcare system, practicing medicine in various specialties and settings. Among colleges with Physician Assistant programs, Alvernia University’s Master of Medical Science in Physician Associate Studies program excels in preparing licensed clinicians for critical roles in healthcare. This program is pivotal in developing PAs committed to improving care access and transforming health and wellness with a patient-centered focus.
Program Pathways
Alvernia University offers two pathways to a Master of Medical Science in Physician Associate Studies: a Bio-PA (3+2) accelerated track and a traditional post-baccalaureate track. The Bio-PA track is an option for students who wish to fast-track their career in healthcare, while the traditional track is tailored for individuals who have completed a baccalaureate degree. This flexibility ensures students find a path that suits their educational background and career aspirations.
Professional Title Change and Accreditation
In 2021, the title "physician associate" was adopted to more accurately reflect the role and expertise of PAs. This change, supported by the AAPA, underscores a broader initiative to clarify the PA's critical position within the healthcare system. Alvernia University has aligned with this development, adopting the new title for its program and ensuring its curriculum reflects current professional standards. The program's accreditation by the ARC-PA guarantees a rigorous, quality education for its students.
Program Features and Requirements
The Physician Associate Program at Alvernia University is structured to be completed within two years. It emphasizes the importance of practical experience, with a prerequisite of at least 200 direct patient care hours for admission. These hours are vital for gaining hands-on clinical experience and can be obtained through paid or volunteer opportunities. The program further encourages applicants to engage in community service and leadership roles, highlighting the value of a well-rounded application demonstrating a commitment to service and leadership.
Experiential Learning and Career Opportunities
Alvernia's state-of-the-art facilities, including Anatomage virtual dissection tables and standardized patient assessments, set the stage for an immersive learning experience. The curriculum provides numerous experiential learning opportunities, from community service to the innovative use of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS), preparing students for a broad spectrum of clinical responsibilities. With a projected job growth rate of 27% between 2022 and 2032, graduates will find themselves well-positioned for success in a high-demand career.
Beyond the Classroom
Inspired by the university's Franciscan foundation, Alvernia's PA program cultivates healthcare professionals skilled in clinical practice and dedicated to providing compassionate, ethical, and person-centered care. This holistic approach to healthcare education ensures that graduates embody the values necessary to positively impact the lives of their patients and the broader community.
Lead the PA Pack with Alvernia
Alvernia University stands at the forefront of healthcare education colleges, ready to prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals with the skills and ethical grounding needed for impactful medical careers. Through rigorous academic coursework, hands-on clinical experience, and a commitment to service and leadership, Alvernia's Master of Medical Science in Physician Associate Studies program is set to redefine the standards of PA education and prepare its graduates to contribute to the health and wellness of communities worldwide.
For more information, please get in touch with Kelly Burr, M.Ed. Director of Graduate Enrollment, at 610-796-8296 or Kelly.Burr@alvernia.edu, or reach out directly to the program at 610-685-3253 or physicianassociate@alvernia.edu.