Career Playbook Logo

Physician Assistant

Physician Assistants practice medicine under physician supervision, diagnosing illnesses, developing treatment plans, and providing patient care.

Example Day-to-Day

Daily tasks include examining patients, ordering and interpreting tests, diagnosing conditions, prescribing medications, assisting in surgeries, counseling patients, and collaborating with physicians and other healthcare providers.

Scorecard

Click on a score to see why it received that rating

How to Get Started

Education Requirements

Physician Assistants must complete a bachelor's degree (typically in a science field), then a Master's degree from an accredited PA program (typically 2-3 years). Prior healthcare experience is often required for admission. Must pass the PANCE exam to become licensed.

Best Majors

  • Biology
  • Health Sciences
  • Chemistry
  • Pre-Med
  • Kinesiology

Best Colleges for Those Majors

  • Duke University PA Program
  • University of Iowa
  • George Washington University
  • Emory University
  • Yale School of Medicine

Related Scholarships

  • PA Program Scholarships
  • Healthcare Scholarships
  • Medical Scholarships
  • National Health Service Corps Scholarships