Major Maps

Students interested in the pre-physician assistant  advising track must be on track to complete all prerequisite coursework, have a minimum 3.0 GPA, and be on track to receive a baccalaureate degree by the time of applying to be considered for admission to PA school. Students interested in PA school should consult with a pre-professional health advisor to learn about requirements that are specific to the schools to which they hope to apply.

Students with an interest in preparing for Physician Assistant  school must declare an academic major and should declare and maintain their pre-physician assistant advising track. Students do not earn a pre-physician assistant degree. Students unsure of their academic majors initially should clarify their academic interests through regular conversations with their advisers. Pre-physician assistant students are encouraged to major in fields of greatest interest to them. To declare a pre-physician assistant advising track, please see the pre-professional health advising blog.

Physician Assistant schools across the U.S. have different prerequisites for admission into their program. Students should discuss career plans with their pre-professional health adviser for additional guidance.

Physician Assistants can practice medicine is most specialties, including family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology. Just more than 20 percent focus their talents in surgery or the surgical subspecialties. Although family and emergency medicine attract the most PAs, many also specialize in dermatology, psychiatry, radiology, and pathology.

As a student interested in a pre-professional health program, you must complete curriculum and professional development requirements listed on the Pre-Professional Health Advising Blog. 

Students interested in declaring a pre-physician assistant advising track must attend an “Interest in Physician Assistant” workshop.  For workshop dates, times, and to RSVP, click here.