Dear Aspirant,

Doctor's assistant, aka physician assistant, programs are typically offered in Master of Science programs. They train candidates to practice medicine under the indirect supervision of an attending physician. Students in a Master of Medical Science in Physician Assisting degree program refine their observation, communication, behavioral, social and intellectual skills. Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a significant emphasis on upper-level biology, one semester of chemistry, microbiology, statistics, one or more semesters of organic chemistry or biochemistry and a full year of physiology and anatomy. Other requirements for admission include letters of recommendation, standardized test scores, and a completed personal interview.

These master's programs take about two years to complete. Most programs are split between classroom learning and clinical rotations in medical specialties. About 1,000 hours of hands-on clinical experience are generally required. After graduating, prospective physician assistants must pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE), which is administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). A passing score qualifies the candidate for the title of Physician Assistant-Certified (PA-C).

Best Wishes!