Pre-physician associate pathway
College of Health
Physician associates are among the most in-demand professionals in healthcare
Pre-physician associate at Oregon State
Physician associates work alongside physicians to deliver care across every area of medicine.
Many College of Health majors include the science and health foundations PA programs look for, so the credits you earn toward your bachelor's degree are also building your application.
Is becoming a physician associate right for you?
Thinking about a career as a physician associate but want to learn more before you commit? Here's a look at what PAs do, how to become one and what the career path looks like.
What does a physician associate do?
Physician associates are medical professionals who work alongside physicians, surgeons and other healthcare providers.
They can diagnose illness, prescribe medication and treatment, order and interpret diagnostic tests, and can work in any area of medicine.
State laws govern the specific scope of practice and supervision requirements. PAs work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, private practices, educational settings and government.
How do I become a physician associate?
PA programs are master's degree programs, typically requiring about two years of combined academic and clinical work from an accredited program.
A bachelor's degree is required for admission, along with significant direct patient care experience. Most programs require between 1,000 and 2,000 hours before you can apply.
What is the difference between a PA and an MD or DO?
PAs and physicians share many of the same clinical responsibilities — diagnosing, treating and prescribing — but the training paths differ significantly.
Physicians complete four years of medical school plus residency, while PAs complete a master's program after their bachelor's degree.
PAs practice with varying degrees of physician oversight depending on state law and practice setting.
What is the job outlook and average salary for physician associates?
The current job outlook and median annual wage for physician associates is available through the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Where can I learn more?
Ready to plan your path to becoming a physician associate?
Think becoming a PA is right for you? Here's what you need to know to prepare a competitive application to PA programs.