Physician Assistant Studies, M.S.

California Baptist University

Program Summary – Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (M.S. in Physician Assistant Studies)

The Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (M.S. in PA Studies) program prepares students to become licensed physician assistants who can diagnose, treat, and manage patient care under the supervision of a physician. The program combines classroom learning, clinical experiences, and hands-on training to equip students with the knowledge and skills required to provide high-quality medical care across a wide range of specialties. Physician assistants are integral members of healthcare teams, working in hospitals, clinics, and other medical settings to deliver patient care, conduct physical exams, order tests, prescribe medications, and assist in surgeries. Graduates of this program are eligible to take the national certification exam to become a certified physician assistant (PA-C).

Key Program Features:

• Comprehensive Medical Education – In-depth study of medical sciences, clinical medicine, pharmacology, and patient care techniques.
• Clinical Rotations – Hands-on clinical training in various medical specialties, such as family medicine, surgery, pediatrics, emergency medicine, and psychiatry.
• Patient Care Skills – Training in physical exams, diagnostics, treatment planning, and patient management.
• Multidisciplinary Learning – Collaboration with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive patient care.
• Licensure Preparation – Preparation for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE), which is required for licensure.
• Research and Evidence-Based Practice – Focus on applying research and evidence-based practices to clinical decision-making and patient care.

Key Areas of Study:

1. Medical Sciences – In-depth courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, and pathology to provide a solid foundation in medical knowledge.
2. Clinical Medicine – Study of various diseases, disorders, and conditions, and how to diagnose and treat them.
3. Physical Diagnosis – Techniques for conducting thorough physical examinations and interpreting findings.
4. Pharmacology and Therapeutics – Understanding of medications, their uses, side effects, and drug interactions in patient care.
5. Medical Ethics and Professionalism – Training in medical ethics, patient confidentiality, and professional conduct.
6. Surgical Assisting – Techniques for assisting in surgical procedures, including preoperative care and postoperative management.
7. Psychiatry and Behavioral Health – Training to assess and manage mental health conditions and disorders.
8. Emergency Medicine – Care for acute medical conditions and emergencies, including trauma and critical care.

Career Opportunities:

Graduates of the M.S. in Physician Assistant Studies program can pursue a variety of roles, including:

• Physician Assistant (PA) – Working under the supervision of a physician, providing medical care in a variety of settings such as hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
• Specialized PA Roles – Physician assistants can specialize in areas like surgery, dermatology, cardiology, pediatrics, orthopedics, emergency medicine, or geriatrics.
• Medical Researcher – Conducting research to advance medical knowledge and improve patient care practices.
• Healthcare Administrator – Managing healthcare teams or overseeing the operation of medical facilities.
• Medical Educator – Teaching and mentoring aspiring physician assistants or medical students in clinical settings or academic institutions.