Pre-Physician Assistant Studies and Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies
A Physician Assistant (PA) is a nationally certified medical provider who is licensed to diagnose and treat illness and disease, and prescribe medication for patients. PAs work in physician offices, hospitals, and clinics in collaboration with a licensed physician. The physician-PA relationship is fundamental to the profession and enhances the delivery of health care.
At College of Saint Mary, you can go from a high school graduate to a practicing physician assistant in just 5 years. Students accepted into the pre-PA status are assigned a level (1 – 3) according to the extent to which they have completed prerequisite courses necessary to start the graduate Physician Assistant program. Levels 4 and 5 are the Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program.
Choose from 2 Admissions Pathways
Pre-Physician Assistant Studies
If you need to complete your undergraduate degree.
- 5 year path (3+2 program: Levels 1-3 are Pre-PAS; Levels 4-5 are MSPAS)
- You can choose an undergraduate major in Human Biology, Psychology or General Studies.
- While meeting progression requirements after each semester at CSM, you’ll be able to earn your seat in the MSPAS program.
- A professional academic advisor will guide you in meeting progression requirements.
Graduate Entry through CASPA
If you have or will complete your bachelor's degree
- 24-month graduate level program
- Assigned a physician assistant advisor
Degrees Offered
Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (Pre-PAS; undergraduate)
Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (Graduate; through CASPA)
Career Outlook
The U.S. Department of Labor projects demand for physician assistants will grow by 31%, much faster than average, by 2030. Physician assistants earn a median annual salary of $115,390 nationally and $113,240 in Nebraska.
Source: U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration
*Pre-PA is a status assigned to students at College of Saint Mary and not a degree program.