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A Physician Associate (PA) is a highly trained healthcare professional who provides patient care alongside physicians and medical teams. With high job demand and specialization opportunities, becoming a PA is an excellent career choice for those passionate about medicine, patient care, and making a difference in healthcare.

At Alvernia, students can take their first step toward this rewarding career through the Master of Medical Science in Physician Associate Studies, which provides rigorous academic training and hands-on clinical experience.
 

Steps to Becoming a Physician Associate

1. Earn a Bachelor's Degree

The first step to becoming a Physician Associate is earning a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as biology, healthcare science, or biochemistry, and fulfilling prerequisite coursework and clinical experience requirements.

Alvernia students can fast-track their education through the Bio-PA (3+2) Accelerated Track. This track allows them to earn a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Master of Physician Associate Studies in just five years. 
 

2. Gain Healthcare Experience

Most PA programs require applicants to have hands-on clinical experience before applying. This experience helps develop essential patient care skills and strengthens applications for PA school. Some common ways to gain healthcare experience include:

• Working as an EMT, medical assistant, paramedic, or phlebotomist.
• Volunteering at hospitals or clinics.
• Shadowing a Physician Associate to understand the role.
   

3. Complete an Accredited PA Program

After completing a bachelor's degree and gaining clinical experience, aspiring PAs must enroll in an accredited Master of Physician Associate Studies program.

PA students at ÃÄÄïÖ±²¥ benefit from a six-semester program consisting of three semesters of classroom-based learning and three clinical rotations, gaining in-depth medical knowledge, hands-on training, and real-world experience.
 

4. Pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE)

Upon graduation from a PA program, candidates must pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) to obtain licensure. This comprehensive exam assesses a candidate’s knowledge of medical sciences, diagnostic skills, and clinical decision-making.

By integrating academic excellence, hands-on experience, and PANCE-specific preparation, ÃÄÄïÖ±²¥ equips students with the knowledge, confidence, and skills needed to excel on the exam.
 

5. Obtain State Licensure and Certification

Each state requires PAs to obtain licensure before practicing. PAs must also complete continuing medical education (CME) courses and recertify every 10 years through the Physician Assistant National Recertifying Exam (PANRE).
 

6. Specialize and Advance Your Career

Once licensed, PAs can specialize in areas such as:

• Emergency Medicine
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Cardiology
• Pediatrics
• Dermatology
• Psychiatry

Many PAs pursue additional healthcare certifications and leadership roles to further advance career opportunities. 
 

What Makes ÃÄÄïÖ±²¥â€™s PA Program Stand Out?

Alvernia offers cutting-edge training, hands-on experience, and a mission-driven approach to healthcare education: 

• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Advanced medical labs and simulation technology provide real-world clinical training.
• Community Service: Students engage in clinical rotations and outreach programs to serve underserved populations in Berks County.
• Franciscan Values: Rooted in compassion, service, and ethical leadership, ÃÄÄïÖ±²¥ instills a patient-centered approach to care in its students.
• Exceptional Student Support: Small class sizes, faculty mentorship, and PANCE prep resources ensure students excel academically and professionally.
   

With a focus on innovation, service, and ethical leadership, ÃÄÄïÖ±²¥ prepares students to make a meaningful impact in healthcare.
 

Your Journey Starts at ÃÄÄïÖ±²¥ 

If you're asking how to become a Physician Associate, ÃÄÄïÖ±²¥ provides a comprehensive curriculum, real-world clinical experiences, and dedicated faculty support to prepare you for a fulfilling and impactful career in healthcare. Learn more and apply today: Master of Medical Science in Physician Associate Studies.

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