Study Pre-Physician Assistant
Major in Biology with an Emphasis in Pre-Physician AssistantBuilding the foundation for medical excellence.
The Pre-Physician Assistant emphasis track prepares students to provide diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventative healthcare services. Students gain clinical experience through shadowing healthcare professionals or internships.
Our program is designed to equip students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and experiences to succeed in their journey toward becoming a licensed physician assistant.
Comprehensive Curriculum
Get a solid academic foundation in the sciences and healthcare-related subjects like anatomy, physiology, biology, and chemistry.
Hands-On Learning
Pitt State connects students with opportunities for clinical exposure and hands-on experience in healthcare settings.
Career Ready
Before pursuing PA school, graduates find employment as medical scribes, healthcare administrators, and research assistants.
Curriculum topics in the Pre-Physician Assistant emphasis
- Anatomy and Physiology: structure and function of the human body
- Biology: general biology, microbiology, and genetics
- Chemistry: general chemistry and organic chemistry
- Physics: understanding radiation, medical imaging, and the physical properties of fluids and gases
- Medical Terminology: the language of medicine and healthcare.
Through the Pre-Physician Assistant emphasis track at Pitt State, gain the skills to advance to a graduate-level PA program.
What is a physician assistant?
A Physician Assistant works under the supervision of a licensed physician. Common duties of a PA include:
- Conducting physical exams: taking patient medical histories to help diagnose medical conditions.
- Interpreting diagnostic tests: blood work, X-rays, or CT scans, to help diagnose and manage medical conditions.
- Developing treatment plans: prescribing medications, providing education on lifestyle changes, and making referrals to other healthcare providers as needed.
- Performing medical procedures: suturing wounds, removing sutures, and casting broken bones.
How to become a physician assistant
A pre-professional program provides students with the necessary coursework and preparation for pursuing a career as a physician assistant. Gain a solid foundation in the basic sciences and an in-depth study of physician assistant practices.
Many PA programs require applicants to have some healthcare experience, such as working as a medical assistant or emergency medical technician (EMT). A typical graduate-level, PA program takes about 2 years to complete and includes classroom instruction and clinical rotations.
To practice as a PA, you must be licensed in the state where you work. Licensing requirements may vary by state but typically involve passing the PANCE exam and completing continuing education requirements.
Additional information
Biology - Pre-Physician Assistant Degree Map download
Catalog – see catalog for the School of Science and Mathematics