Physician Assistant
Want to become a Physician Assistant (P.A.)? Most students choose to major in biology or chemistry from UNC before going to PA school, but you can choose any undergraduate major.
Choosing a major outside of the sciences might increase the time it takes you to earn your degree as you'll also need to complete the graduation requirements for that major.
Core courses
Course requirements for admissions vary depending on the PA school. Two semesters of each are usually required:
- General biology with lab
- General chemistry with lab
- (One semester) anatomy with lab
- (One semester) Physiology with lab
- Chemistry elective with lab
- Psychology
- (One semester) Statistics
- (One semester) College math
Other recommended courses
These courses could also help you on your next journey, and one semester is required for many programs:
- Genetics
- Organic chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Microbiology
Timeline
During your time here, you should do your best to stick to this timeline. It will help make sure you're ready to apply to physician assistant programs.
How to apply to PA school
Start by completing the CASPA application. This will then be sent to the PA schools of your choice.
We've outlined the general process below, but you can also learn more about the CASPA admissions process.
- You will need to complete and submit your application along with your official transcripts to CASPA. Each application includes a space for your personal essay, coursework history, list of activities, GRE score and the names of your recommenders (letters of recommendation are typically sent directly to each school).
- Once schools receive you application, you may receive a secondary application. This application requires additional information and asks a series of short answer/essay questions. Send completed applications to each school.
- After reviewing your application and letters of recommendation, PA schools may then invite you for interviews.
- From here, you will either be accepted, denied or placed on a waitlist for each school. The next choice is all yours!
General information about applicants
Students accepted to PA school typically have an overall GPA of 3.57, science GPA of 3.51 and an GRE score of 307.
