
University of South Florida

Florida
,United States

Program Name
Masters in Physician Assistant Studies
Overview

The Master of Physician Assistant Studies at the University of South Florida is a premier graduate program designed to equip students with the comprehensive skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the dynamic field of healthcare. This rigorous program emphasizes not only clinical skills but also the essential principles of patient care, medical ethics, and healthcare management. In just 24 months, students engage in an intensive curriculum that integrates theoretical learning with hands-on clinical experiences. The university's dedication to producing competent healthcare professionals is evident in its state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology, fostering an environment conducive to learning and innovation.
The curriculum is carefully crafted to cover a broad spectrum of topics essential for aspiring physician assistants, including anatomy, pharmacology, clinical medicine, and surgical skills. Students can expect to enroll in core courses such as Advanced Clinical Medicine, Clinical Diagnostics, and Health Promotion. Additionally, specialized electives allow customization of their educational journey. Advanced courses on topics like Health Law and Ethics and Pediatric Medicine provide an opportunity for deeper exploration into specific areas of interest. The program also emphasizes interprofessional collaboration, enabling students to work alongside other healthcare professionals, thus enhancing their ability to provide holistic patient care.
At the heart of this program is a faculty comprising seasoned professionals and scholars who bring a wealth of expertise and experience to the classroom. The faculty members are committed to fostering a supportive learning environment, using innovative teaching methodologies that combine traditional lectures with interactive workshops and case-based learning. This hands-on approach ensures that students not only absorb theoretical knowledge but also gain practical skills that are critical for success in real-world clinical settings. Faculty mentorship is a cornerstone of the program, allowing students to build meaningful relationships that can enhance their educational experience and future career prospects.
Research opportunities abound for students in the Master of Physician Assistant Studies program. The University of South Florida boasts an impressive array of resources, including access to leading research centers and laboratories that facilitate groundbreaking studies. Students are encouraged to participate in ongoing research initiatives, where they can contribute to advancing medical knowledge and improving patient care practices. The university’s strong commitment to research is further evidenced by its partnerships with local healthcare institutions, providing students with a platform to engage in impactful research projects that can elevate their professional profiles.
Industry connections and internship possibilities play a pivotal role in the program’s design. The University of South Florida has established partnerships with various healthcare organizations, hospitals, and clinics throughout Florida and beyond. These connections provide students with invaluable internship experiences, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-world settings while gaining insights into the daily responsibilities of physician assistants. The program’s strong emphasis on clinical rotations ensures that students receive hands-on training in diverse healthcare environments, enhancing their readiness for the job market upon graduation.
Upon completing the Master of Physician Assistant Studies, graduates are well-prepared to enter a rapidly growing job market. Career pathways include roles in hospitals, private practices, and healthcare organizations, with positions that range from surgical assistant to primary care provider. The demand for skilled physician assistants is at an all-time high, and graduates from the University of South Florida benefit from a robust alumni network and career services dedicated to job placement. Many graduates report high job placement rates within months of graduation, underscoring the effectiveness of the program in meeting industry needs.
Alumni of the program have gone on to achieve significant success in their careers, with many taking on leadership roles within healthcare settings. Their stories highlight the transformative impact of the education they received at the University of South Florida. From developing new treatment protocols to leading healthcare teams, alumni testify to how the program equipped them with the critical thinking and clinical skills they needed to excel. These success stories not only inspire current students but also strengthen the program’s reputation as a leading choice for those pursuing a career as a physician assistant.
Unique features of the Master of Physician Assistant Studies program include its commitment to diversity and inclusion, an aspect that is highly regarded by international students. The program is designed to welcome a diverse cohort, fostering an enriching learning environment where different perspectives enhance discussions and collaborative learning. The university also supports students with tailored resources, ensuring they have access to academic advising, counseling, and career services throughout their educational journey.
To be eligible for the Master of Physician Assistant Studies program, applicants must meet specific requirements. A completed bachelor’s degree is required, alongside relevant healthcare experience, which may include volunteering or working in healthcare settings. Strong communication skills and a passion for patient care are essential. Additionally, applicants are typically required to submit standardized test scores for English proficiency, such as the IELTS (with a minimum score of 6.5), PTE (with a minimum score of 53), or TOEFL (with a minimum score of 79). Alongside these, applicants must complete a detailed application including personal statements and letters of recommendation.
Why Study Physician Assistant Studies at University of South Florida?:
- Receive a top-tier education from a university ranked among the best in the nation.
- Learn from a distinguished faculty with real-world experience in clinical practice.
- Engage in extensive clinical rotations and internships to gain hands-on experience.
- Benefit from a strong alumni network that supports career placement and professional growth.
- Access to modern facilities and resources conducive to innovative research and learning.
- Become part of a diverse community that emphasizes inclusivity and collaboration.
The Master of Physician Assistant Studies program at the University of South Florida stands out as an exemplary choice for students committed to advancing their careers in healthcare. With a focus on excellence in education, extensive clinical training, and a supportive learning environment, this program is dedicated to shaping the next generation of healthcare leaders.

Duration
24 Months
Ranking
#97
US World and News Report
Class Profile
Diversity
Others:
14%California:
15%Texas:
9%New York:
10%Florida:
45%Illinois:
7%Eligibility Criteria
English Proficiency Tests
IELTS
6.5
PTE
53
TOEFL
79
Application Requirements
Here's everything you need to know to ensure a complete and competitive application—covering the key documents and criteria for a successful submission.

Application Fee: 30
Application Deadlines
Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees
$39,645 / year
FAQs
To be eligible for the Master of Physician Assistant Studies program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- A completed bachelor’s degree.
- Relevant healthcare experience, which can include volunteering or working in healthcare settings.
- Strong communication skills and a passion for patient care.
- Standardized test scores for English proficiency, such as:
- IELTS - minimum score of 6.5
- PTE - minimum score of 53
- TOEFL - minimum score of 79
- A detailed application, including personal statements and letters of recommendation.
The Master of Physician Assistant Studies program is structured over a span of 24 months, incorporating a comprehensive curriculum that includes:
- Core courses covering essential topics such as Advanced Clinical Medicine, Clinical Diagnostics, and Health Promotion.
- Specialized electives that allow students to tailor their education to their interests, including advanced topics like Health Law and Ethics and Pediatric Medicine.
- An emphasis on interprofessional collaboration, where students work alongside other healthcare professionals.
This blend of theoretical learning and hands-on clinical experiences prepares students to excel in the healthcare field.
Graduates of the Master of Physician Assistant Studies program are well-prepared to enter a rapidly growing job market. Career pathways include:
- Roles in hospitals
- Positions in private practices
- Opportunities within healthcare organizations
Specific positions may range from surgical assistants to primary care providers. The high demand for skilled physician assistants, combined with the program's strong alumni network and dedicated career services, contributes to high job placement rates for graduates shortly after completing their studies.
The teaching methodology in the Master of Physician Assistant Studies program is designed to foster an engaging and supportive learning environment. Key aspects include:
- Innovative teaching methodologies that combine traditional lectures with interactive workshops and case-based learning.
- A strong focus on hands-on approaches, ensuring that students gain practical skills applicable to real-world clinical settings.
- Faculty mentorship, allowing students to build meaningful relationships with seasoned professionals and scholars in the field.
This comprehensive approach ensures that students not only absorb theoretical knowledge but also apply it effectively in practice.
Several unique aspects set the Master of Physician Assistant Studies program at the University of South Florida apart, including:
- A commitment to diversity and inclusion, creating an enriching learning environment.
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology that enhance both research and learning.
- Partnerships with local healthcare institutions, providing students with impactful research opportunities.
- A strong emphasis on clinical rotations and internships to gain practical experience in diverse healthcare environments.
These features contribute to a well-rounded educational experience that prepares students for successful careers in healthcare.
The Master of Physician Assistant Studies program offers numerous research opportunities, facilitated by:
- Access to leading research centers and laboratories.
- Encouragement for students to participate in ongoing research initiatives.
- Partnerships with local healthcare institutions, which provide a platform for students to engage in impactful research projects.
This support allows students to contribute to advancing medical knowledge and improving patient care practices, enhancing their professional profiles.
The Master of Physician Assistant Studies program at the University of South Florida provides robust support for students' career development through:
- A strong alumni network that aids in job placement and professional growth.
- Access to dedicated career services focused on helping students navigate the job market.
- Opportunities to engage in extensive clinical rotations and internships that provide real-world experience.
Many graduates report high job placement rates shortly after graduation, reflecting the effectiveness of these career support services.
The University of South Florida offers tailored resources to support students in the Master of Physician Assistant Studies program, including:
- Academic advising to help guide students in their studies and course selection.
- Counseling services to provide emotional and mental health support.
- Career services that assist with job placement and professional development.
These resources ensure that students have the necessary support to thrive academically and personally during their educational journey.
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