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Physician Assistant

degree OVERVIEW

Master of Science in Physician Assistant

South University Physician Assistant Program Overview
South University PA Program students graduating

The South University Master of Science in Physician Assistant Program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills essential to excel as competent and compassionate healthcare clinicians in a wide variety of medical specialties. The Physician Assistant program is designed to provide an educational environment that empowers students to practice evidence-based, patient -centered medical care. Physician assistants are licensed clinicians who can diagnose illnesses, order and interpret diagnostic tests, develop and manage treatment plans, prescribe medications, and often serve as a patient’s principal healthcare provider.

Through a comprehensive medical curriculum, the program educates students to function collaboratively as valued members of the medical profession while providing high quality patient care. The scope of practice varies according to state laws, the medical setting, and the experience of the physician assistant. With an emphasis on increasing access to care, reducing health disparities, and engaging in community outreach, we aim to provide inclusive educational experiences for students, faculty, and staff.

South University Physician Assistant Program graduates are eligible to pursue licensure in all 50 states across the U.S. once they have passed the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) developed by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). South University does not guarantee third-party certification/licensure. Outside agencies control the requirements for taking and passing certification/licensing exams and are subject to change without notice to South University.  Students must pass the required licensure to work in their respective field.

It is up to each student to review the national and state licensure requirements for licensure, as well as the eligibility criteria to sit for licensure exams. South University cannot guarantee each graduate will pass the required licensure examinations. Outside agencies control the requirements for taking and passing certification/licensing exams and are subject to change without notice to South University.

*South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment, or salary amounts.

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Campuses offer flexible learning formats* including: on-campus, virtual instructions, and online courses.

*Clinical, practicum, and externship requirements exist in certain programs and require field experiences. Learning formats may not be flexible.

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Outstanding Education for Remarkable Careers

Success Stories

We're committed to helping our graduates make an impact in their professional and personal lives. We applaud our alumni and the difference they make. Check out what some of our healthcare graduates have to say.

Helen Ramirez
Helen Ramirez Grad Alumni
Class of '19
Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies, South University, Richmond

One thing I love about the PA program here is that it's small and really intimate. You know all of your professors and classmates extremely well. You spend a lot of time together throughout the 27 months you're in the program.

Michela Mazard
Michela Lambert Mazard Grad Alumni
Class of ‘11 and ‘16
Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing-South University, Online Programs

“I wanted an education that would prepare me to build relationships and treat patients and families throughout their lifespan with interaction among their physical, emotional, and mental systems. I chose South University because I was confident that I would receive a well-rounded education that ensures I am armed with the skill set I need to provide the best care possible. Read more

Demitrius Archie
Demitrius Archie Grad Alumni
Class of '20
Master of Healthcare Administration-South University, Online Programs

“I was the first in my family to go into the military, and the first person of my siblings to graduate with a degree.”

Jennifer DAngelo 2018
Jennifer DAngelo Grad Alumni
'05
Bachelor of Health Sciences-South University, Online Programs

“I needed a program that would support my professional and academic goals in addition to understanding my family obligations. South University did that and so much more. South University and their compassionate staff and educators never stopped encouraging me to follow my dreams. From helping me with class schedule adjustments to providing financial aid services, they always assisted me in my time of need.”

Timothy A. Stroy, Sr. 2010
Timothy A. Stroy, Sr. Grad Alumni
Class of '10
Associate of Science in Medical Assisting-South University, Columbia

“I am so grateful to my mother, Lessie Stroy, and the faculty and staff of South University for their support and encouragement. They gave me the courage to step outside my comfort zone and into what was, for me, the unknown. That's where I found what I was really looking for.”