Pre-Physician Assistant
Selecting a Major
So what should you major in at TAMUCC? A common myth is that you have to major in a science degree as a Pre-Physician Assistant student; however, this is not true. We recommend that you choose a degree based on your interests. It is important to choose a major based on your academic interests rather than one that you think looks good to physician assistant schools. Choose a major that you are passionate about, whether it is a major in Liberal Arts, Business, Health Sciences, or something else entirely, completing the prerequisites for physician assistant schools can be accomplished. Certain degrees may cover the pre-physician assistant prerequisites; however, physician assistant schools also accept students who show broad interests in their academic coursework through a non-science major. Major in any subject you want!
If you would like to major as a Pre-Physician Assistant student follow this degree plan:
- Pre-Physician Assistant Degree Plan (Under Revision)
Texas Schools
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
- Texas Tech University Health Science Center Physician Assistant Program (Midland)
- University of North Texas Health Science Center Department of Physician Assistant Studies (Ft. Worth)
- University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Department of Physician Assistant Studies
- University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) at Galveston Physician Assistant Studies Program
- University of Texas Rio Grande Valley - Physician Assistant Studies Department (Edinburg)
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Physician Assistant Studies Program (Dallas)
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
PROVISIONAL ACCREDITATION AND DEVELOPING PROGRAMS
Check accreditation status of Texas Programs here. The school websites and the PAEA (Physician Assistant Education Association) website will keep you informed about their current status.
Accredited – Provisional
Hardin-Simmons University Physician Assistant Program (Abilene) (Private)
Developing – Not Accredited
University of Incarnate Word Physician Assistant Program (San Antonio) (Private)
Stress Management Resources
CAMPUS RESOURCES
University Counseling Center 361-825-2703
- Individual walk-in support M-F 8-5 PM in the Driftwood Building
- Counselor on Duty Hours M-F 9-11:30 AM & 1-4 PM
- After Hours Crisis, call 361-825-2703 and press 2 to be connected to the Emergency counselor
- Self Help Resources
OTHER RESOURCES
- Mental Health and Wellbeing for College Students
- Student Guide for Surviving Stress and Anxiety in College and Beyond
GRE Exam
Research Physician Assistant Schools Before You Apply!
- CASPA's Participating Programs
- PAEA Program Directory
Application Services
TEXAS SCHOOLS REQUIRING SECONDARY APPLICATIONS
Some health professions schools require secondary applications to be completed in addition to the primary application. Applications are not considered complete until the secondary application is submitted. Most secondary applications require an additional fee and the majority of secondary application fees are non-refundable. Please check and confirm the cost with the school as costs range from $25-$60.
Letters of Reference
Letters of reference are key pieces to your Physician Assistant program application. Each application has its own way of collecting letters and number and type of letters vary from school to school. Check with the application service you are using for additional details. If you are applying to multiple Physician Assistant programs check with each program to see what letters they want or need.
- CASPA's Letter of Reference Directions
Personal Statements
The personal statement is a critical component of your application to PA school, as the personal statement can either significantly help or harm your chances for success, it is important to take it seriously. The statement must be personal. This is your chance to let the Admissions Committee hear from you and understand who you are. Take advantage of the opportunity to express your commitments, motivations and values.
Pre-Physician Assistant Resources
- Occupational Outlook
- American Academy of Physician Assistants ( AAPA)
- AAPA Videos: www.youtube.com/user/aapavideo
- Student Academy of AAPA ( SAAAPA)
- Texas Academy of Physician Assistants ( TAPA)
- National Commission on Certification on Physician Assistants ( NCCPA) - All U.S. states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. territories rely on NCCPA certification as one of the criteria for licensure or regulation of physician assistants
- Physician Assistant Education Association ( PAEA) & PAEA Networker - The PAEA Networker newsletter is published in a blog platform
- Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam ( SAAAPA)) & Licensing and Certification (National and State) and Continuing Education
- Becoming a PA - Information about PA education and training, licensure, practice settings, and continuing education
- Physician Assistant History Society
- APPAP - The Association of Postgraduate PA Programs