Are you looking for a career that is growing much faster than other jobs? Physician assistants are in demand, but to enter the field you usually need a master's degree and a license. Applicants to professional training programs often have experience as EMTs, nurses or paramedics. Studies should cover advanced coursework such as human anatomy, pathology, physiology, clinical medicine and medical ethics.
Master's degrees in physician assisting generally take at least two years of full-time study. Many programs are found in schools of allied health, medical schools or universities. Part of your training might include meeting with patients under the supervision of a physician. Laboratory work is combined with classroom study.
Making the rounds as a physician assistant
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that over half of PAs work in doctors' offices, and nearly a quarter are employed by hospitals. In this high-energy field, you'll likely spend a lot of time on your feet, whether you are evaluating or assisting patients or working in operating rooms.
With master's degrees in physician assisting, PAs can still seek advanced training in postgraduate education programs with specializations like internal medicine and occupational medicine. Continuing education is also required. Of course, PAs work under the supervision of a physician. Becoming a physician requires years of medical school and additional licensure.
Career outlook and salaries in physician assisting
The BLS reports a median annual salary of $86,410 for physician assistants in 2010. Salaries varied according to the environment -- here are median wages for PAs employed in common settings:
- Hospitals: $89,500
- Outpatient care centers: $88,160
- Offices of physicians: $85,340
- Government: $85,170
- Colleges, universities and professional schools: $80,810
Physician assistants across the industry are expected to see a 30 percent increase in employment between 2010 and 2020, with about 24,700 new jobs entering the field. Those working in medically underserved areas, rural areas and primary care should see the best job prospects.
Assisting physicians puts you in the unique position of working hands-on with patients in less time than it takes to graduate from med school. Master's degrees in physician assisting are focused, designed to give you the training you need in a concentrated amount of time. Hybrid study programs may offer options for combining the required in-person clinical work with web-based coursework.
Are you looking for a career that is growing much faster than other jobs? Physician assistants are in demand, but to enter the field you usually need a master's degree and a license. Applicants to professional training programs often have experience as EMTs, nurses or paramedics. Studies should cover advanced coursework such as human anatomy, pathology, physiology, clinical medicine and medical ethics.
Master's degrees in physician assisting generally take at least two years of full-time study. Many programs are found in schools of allied health, medical schools or universities. Part of your training might include meeting with patients under the supervision of a physician. Laboratory work is combined with classroom study.
Making the rounds as a physician assistant
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that over half …
