While the field of medicine has always been a highly respected and sought-after profession, becoming a physician can require years of extensive study and training. For those who are passionate about healthcare but do not have the time or resources to become a doctor, becoming a physician assistant (PA) may be an ideal alternative.
Aspiring PAs can find various programs across the United States that offer specialized training and education in this field. However, one common concern for students interested in pursuing a PA degree is finding quality schools in their area.
In Florida, where there is an increasing demand for qualified healthcare professionals due to its growing population, aspiring PAs may wonder if they will be able to find suitable programs within their state.
In this article, we will explore some of the top Physician Assistant Schools available in Florida and provide information on what each program offers in terms of curriculum, clinical experience, and other relevant factors to help prospective students make informed decisions regarding their future career paths.
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Best Physician Assistant Schools In Florida
#1. University of Florida
The University of Florida offers a highly competitive physician assistant program that provides students with comprehensive didactic and clinical training.
This program equips students with the necessary skills to succeed in the healthcare field, including patient care, disease management, and counseling. The curriculum covers a range of topics from anatomy and physiology to pharmacology and medical ethics.
Career opportunities for graduates of the University of Florida's physician assistant program are plentiful. Graduates can work in various medical settings such as hospitals, private practices, and urgent care centers.
They can also specialize in areas such as cardiology, dermatology, gastroenterology, oncology, and more. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for physician assistants is projected to grow 31 percent from 2019 to 2029.
Admission requirements for the University of Florida's physician assistant program include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, completion of prerequisite courses in subjects such as biology and chemistry, GRE scores within five years prior to the application submission date, letters of recommendation from professionals who have worked closely with applicants in healthcare or academic settings.
Applicants must also have completed at least 1,000 hours of direct hands-on patient care experience by the time they apply to the program.
#2. Barry University
Barry University offers a Master of Clinical Medical Science Program with a concentration in Physician Assistant Studies.
The program is designed to prepare students for careers as physician assistants through rigorous coursework and clinical training.
The program length is 27 months, and the coursework includes topics such as anatomy, pharmacology, patient assessment, and clinical medicine.
Master of Clinical Medical Science Program
Enrolling in a Master of Clinical Medical Science Program in Florida can provide students with extensive clinical experience and knowledge for their careers as physician assistants.
This program is designed to equip aspiring physician assistants with the skills and expertise needed to work effectively in healthcare settings.
To be eligible for this program, students must meet certain requirements, which include having a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and completing prerequisite coursework in areas such as biology, chemistry, and anatomy.
The admission process for this program typically involves submitting an application along with official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement outlining the applicant's goals and motivations for pursuing a career as a physician assistant.
Once admitted, students will have access to various learning opportunities such as:
- Classroom lectures
- Laboratory sessions
- Simulations
- Clinical rotations
Through these experiences, they will gain hands-on training on how to diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, perform medical procedures, and communicate effectively with patients.
Graduates of this program are well-prepared to take on roles as highly-skilled healthcare professionals who can make a positive impact on their patients' lives.
Physician Assistant Studies Concentration
Exceedingly rigorous and comprehensive, the curriculum for the Physician Assistant Studies Concentration program in Florida provides students with a profound understanding of medical care and treatment procedures.
The program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become competent physician assistants who can work alongside physicians in various healthcare settings.
Through a combination of didactic coursework, clinical rotations, and hands-on experiences, students learn about anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, diagnostic procedures, patient assessment techniques, and more.
Upon completing the program, graduates are eligible to take the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) to become certified physician assistants (PA).
With this certification, they can pursue various career opportunities in healthcare such as working in primary care clinics or specialty practices like orthopedics or cardiology.
To be admitted into this program, prospective students must meet certain PA education requirements such as earning a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and completing prerequisite courses such as biology and chemistry.
Program Length and Coursework Overview
The Physician Assistant Studies Concentration in Florida offers a comprehensive education in medical care and treatment procedures. The program length is typically 24-28 months, including both classroom instruction and clinical rotations.
The coursework is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work as qualified healthcare professionals under the supervision of licensed physicians.
Program requirements for admission include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, completion of prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, and other related subjects, as well as clinical experience or volunteer work in a healthcare setting. Applicants must also submit letters of recommendation, and personal essays, and participate in an interview process.
Once accepted into the program, students will take courses such as anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, medical ethics, patient assessment techniques, clinical medicine, and more. Clinical rotations are also required to provide hands-on experience working alongside physicians in various medical specialties.
Overall, this concentration provides students with rigorous academic training that prepares them for a rewarding career as physician assistants.
#3. Nova Southeastern University
Nova Southeastern University's physician assistant program has a rigorous curriculum that is designed to prepare students for the demands of the profession, similar to how marathon runner trains their body and mind to endure a grueling race.
This program is 27 months long, divided into didactic and clinical phases, with an emphasis on hands-on experience throughout the coursework.
Students are taught by highly experienced faculty members who provide individualized attention and support.
The admission requirements for Nova Southeastern University's physician assistant program include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0, completion of prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, anatomy/physiology, and statistics, GRE scores within the past five years, and relevant healthcare experience.
Additionally, applicants must submit letters of recommendation and complete an interview process before being considered for admission.
The program accepts up to 80 students per year.
Graduates from Nova Southeastern University's physician assistant program have excellent career opportunities in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, private practices, and government agencies.
They also have the option to specialize in areas such as emergency medicine or surgery through additional training programs.
Overall, this program provides students with comprehensive education and skills needed for success in the field of healthcare as a physician assistant.
#4. Miami Dade College
Moving on from Nova Southeastern University, another top physician assistant school in Florida is Miami Dade College. This public college offers a highly-regarded Physician Assistant Associate in Science program that aims to prepare students for a career as a physician assistant.
With rigorous coursework and hands-on clinical experience, graduates of the program are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful healthcare professionals.
If you're considering applying to Miami Dade College's Physician Assistant program, here are some admission requirements you need to know:
Applicants must have completed at least 60 credit hours of college-level coursework from an accredited institution.
A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is required, with no grades lower than a C in prerequisite courses such as anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and statistics.
Applicants must pass the GRE exam with scores at or above the 50th percentile.
Clinical experience in healthcare settings is preferred but not required.
Upon completion of the program, graduates can expect to have various career opportunities available to them such as working in hospitals, clinics, or private practices alongside physicians and other healthcare providers. Additionally, they may choose to pursue further education or specialize in a specific area of medicine.
Overall, Miami Dade College's Physician Assistant program offers an excellent option for those who aspire to become physician assistants and contribute positively towards improving patient outcomes within the healthcare system.
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#5. Keiser University
Keiser University offers a comprehensive Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program that prepares graduates for advanced nursing roles and leadership positions.
The program aims to provide students with the essential knowledge and skills needed to function as nurse leaders, educators, and innovators in healthcare settings.
Graduates of the MSN program can pursue career opportunities that involve providing patient care, research, education, administration, and policy development.
To be admitted into Keiser University's MSN program, applicants must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from an accredited institution and hold an active registered nursing license.
They should also submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended, two letters of recommendation from professionals who can attest to their academic or professional achievements, a resume or CV detailing their work experience as a registered nurse, and a personal statement outlining their reasons for pursuing graduate studies in nursing.
The MSN program at Keiser University is designed to equip graduates with the competencies necessary to succeed in various nursing roles. Students are taught by experienced faculty members who employ evidence-based teaching strategies and interactive learning approaches.
Overall, the MSN curriculum emphasizes critical thinking skills development, clinical reasoning abilities enhancement, ethical decision-making capabilities improvement, interprofessional collaboration promotion, cultural sensitivity reinforcement as well as leadership qualities cultivation.
#6. Florida State University
Florida State University offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program that prepares graduates for advanced nursing roles and leadership positions.
Although it does not offer a physician assistant program, the MSN degree can be an alternative pathway toward a career as a nurse practitioner (NP).
NPs have similar responsibilities to PAs, including diagnosing and treating illnesses, prescribing medications, and performing minor procedures.
Here are some benefits of pursuing an MSN degree at Florida State University:
The College of Nursing is ranked #25 among public universities by U.S. News & World Report.
The MSN curriculum includes courses such as Advanced Pharmacology, Pathophysiology for Advanced Practice Nurses, and Leadership in Complex Health Systems.
Graduates of the MSN program are eligible to sit for national certification exams from organizations such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nurse practitioners in Florida earn an average annual salary of $104,610 as of May 2020.
While Florida State University doesn't offer a physician assistant program specifically, its Master of Science in Nursing program provides excellent career prospects for those interested in becoming nurse practitioners.
With its highly-ranked College of Nursing and comprehensive curriculum that includes courses on pharmacology and leadership in healthcare systems, graduates will be well-prepared to take on advanced nursing roles with high earning potential.
#7. South University
South University offers a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies Program that provides students with comprehensive training and education in the field.
The program's curriculum includes coursework in basic sciences, clinical medicine, patient assessment, pharmacology, and more.
Additionally, students gain practical experience through clinical rotations and preceptorships to prepare them for their future careers as physician assistants.
Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies Program
The Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies Program offered by South University is a highly competitive program that prepares students for the rigorous demands of clinical practice.
As with any graduate-level program, there are certain prerequisites that must be met before being admitted into the program.
These include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, completion of prerequisite courses such as anatomy, physiology, and microbiology, and experience in patient care settings.
Upon completing the program, graduates will have attained the necessary knowledge and skills to become licensed physician assistants who work under the supervision of licensed physicians.
The job outlook for physician assistants is very promising with an expected growth rate of 31% from 2018 to 2028 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
With this degree from South University, graduates will have access to various job opportunities in clinics, hospitals, private practices, and other healthcare settings where they can provide medical care to patients alongside licensed physicians.
Curriculum and Coursework Overview
The curriculum for physician assistant studies programs is structured to provide a comprehensive education that prepares students to become competent healthcare professionals.
The coursework is designed to cover key topics such as anatomy, pharmacology, physiology, clinical medicine, patient assessment, and medical ethics. Additionally, students are required to complete clinical rotations where they can apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.
These rotations are typically done under the supervision of licensed physicians or experienced physician assistants.
To give you a clearer picture of what to expect from this program, here's a table illustrating some of the courses offered by some universities with physician assistant programs in Florida:
| Course Title | Credits | Course Description |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Terminology | 3 | An introduction to medical language used within healthcare settings |
| Clinical Medicine I | 4 | A study of common illnesses and diseases encountered by healthcare providers |
| Pharmacology | 4 | An exploration of drug actions and interactions within the human body |
| Diagnostic Imaging | 3 | An overview of diagnostic imaging techniques used in diagnosing various medical conditions |
Specializations available may vary depending on the university offering these programs; however, common areas include emergency medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics/adolescent medicine among others.
Graduates may choose to pursue careers as primary care providers or work alongside physicians/surgeons across different specialties providing quality healthcare services to patients across all age ranges.
Clinical Rotations and Preceptorships
One crucial aspect of physician assistant programs is the completion of clinical rotations and preceptorships, which provide students with hands-on experience in a variety of healthcare settings.
Clinical rotations allow students to gain practical experience in various medical specialties such as emergency medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and internal medicine.
During these rotations, students work alongside licensed physicians and other healthcare professionals to develop their skills in patient assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and implementation.
The clinical rotation logistics vary among different physician assistant schools in Florida. However, most programs require students to complete a certain number of hours or weeks of clinical rotations before graduation.
To ensure that the clinical experience meets the program's educational objectives for each student, some programs have specific requirements for the types of medical facilities where clinical rotations are completed.
In addition to completing clinical rotations, many physician assistant programs also require preceptorships where students work one-on-one with an experienced healthcare provider.
The preceptorship selection process can be competitive as there are limited spots available at certain clinics or hospitals.
Students are often required to apply for these opportunities early on in their academic program and compete based on academic performance and professional conduct during previous coursework or clinical experiences.
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#8. AdventHealth University
AdventHealth University, a Christian institution located in Orlando, Florida, offers a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program that is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA).
The program is designed to educate and prepare physician assistants who possess strong clinical skills and leadership qualities.
In addition to didactic coursework, students are required to complete more than 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience across various medical specialties.
The curriculum at AdventHealth University's PA program includes courses such as Medical Ethics & Professionalism, Pharmacology, Anatomy & Physiology, Clinical Medicine I-II-III-IV-VI-VII-VIII-IX-X-XI-XII-XIII XIV XV XVI XVII XVIII XIX XX XXI XXII XXIII XXIV and much more.
The program also emphasizes leadership development through courses like Healthcare Leadership & Management. Graduates of the program are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their careers as physician assistants.
Admission requirements for the PA program include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, completion of specific prerequisite courses with a grade of C or better, GRE scores within the last five years (minimum combined score of 300), healthcare-related experience (paid or volunteer), three letters of recommendation, and an interview process.
Successful completion of this rigorous program prepares graduates for career opportunities such as primary care providers in family medicine clinics or specialty clinics like cardiology or surgery as well as hospitalists or emergency medicine providers.
#9. Florida International University
Moving on from AdventHealth University, another option for those interested in pursuing a Physician Assistant (PA) program in Florida is Florida International University (FIU).
FIU offers a competitive PA program that requires applicants to meet certain requirements. These include a Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, completion of specific prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of ‘C', and satisfactory scores on the GRE or MCAT exam.
Additionally, applicants must have healthcare experience, either as a volunteer or paid employee, to be considered for admission.
The FIU admission process is highly selective and involves several steps. Prospective students must first submit an online application through the Central Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA), which includes transcripts, test scores, personal statements, and letters of recommendation.
After review by the admissions committee, selected applicants will be invited for an interview before final decisions are made regarding acceptance into the program.
Overall, FIU's PA program offers rigorous training and preparation for those seeking to become licensed physician assistants in Florida or elsewhere in the country.
#10. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies Program designed to prepare students for entry-level clinical practice.
The curriculum includes foundational and clinical courses that cover various medical disciplines, including anatomy, pharmacology, and diagnostic procedures.
Additionally, the program requires extensive clinical rotations and experiential learning opportunities to provide practical training in patient care.
Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies Program
The Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies Program offered in Florida provides an exceptional education in healthcare. The program admission process requires applicants to have a bachelor's degree, prerequisite courses, and clinical experience opportunities.
The rigorous curriculum includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical rotations under the supervision of licensed physicians and other healthcare professionals.
This two-year program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become competent physician assistants who can diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, and provide compassionate patient care.
Graduates of this program are eligible to take the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) and pursue careers in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, private practices, or government agencies.
With its emphasis on hands-on training and evidence-based practice, this program prepares students for the challenges of modern medicine while instilling in them a commitment to lifelong learning and professional growth.
Curriculum and Course Requirements
The curriculum and course requirements of the Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies Program provide students with a comprehensive education in healthcare through classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical rotations supervised by licensed healthcare professionals.
Course offerings include anatomy, pharmacology, pathophysiology, medical ethics, patient assessment, and diagnostic procedures. The program also emphasizes preventive medicine and health promotion.
Accreditation requirements are met through regular evaluations of the program's curriculum and faculty by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA).
Students are required to complete a minimum number of clinical hours before graduation to ensure that they have acquired the practical skills necessary to practice medicine as physician assistants.
Additionally, graduates must pass a national certification examination administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) before they can obtain state licensure.
With its rigorous academic standards and focus on hands-on training, this program prepares students for careers as highly competent healthcare professionals who can provide quality care to patients in a variety of settings.
Clinical Rotations and Experiential Learning Opportunities
After completing the rigorous curriculum and course requirements, students in physician assistant schools in Florida move on to the next phase of their education: clinical rotations and experiential learning opportunities.
Clinical rotations provide students with hands-on experience working in diverse healthcare settings under the supervision of licensed physicians and experienced PAs.
These experiences offer a chance for students to apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-world situations, while also developing crucial skills such as patient communication, diagnosis, treatment planning, and teamwork.
Experiential learning benefits go beyond just gaining practical experience; it also allows students to develop professional relationships with mentors and peers within the healthcare field.
Additionally, clinical rotations give students exposure to various medical specialties that can help them determine which area they would like to focus on after graduation.
It is not uncommon for PA students to secure job offers from rotation sites where they excel during their time there.
Overall, clinical rotations are an essential part of a PA program's curriculum because they provide invaluable experiential learning opportunities that prepare students for successful careers as PAs in diverse healthcare settings.
#11. Gulf Coast State College
Despite being located on the Gulf Coast, Gulf Coast State College's Physician Assistant program does not focus solely on coastal health issues.
The program offers students a comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of healthcare, including primary care and specialty areas such as emergency medicine and surgery.
Students are given hands-on experience through clinical rotations in various healthcare settings, which prepares them for their future careers as physician assistants.
The admission process to this program is highly competitive, with strict requirements that must be met before acceptance. Applicants must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, as well as prerequisite coursework in biology, chemistry, and anatomy/physiology.
Additionally, applicants are required to have at least 1,000 hours of direct patient care experience. Once accepted into the program, students will spend 27 months completing both classroom instruction and clinical rotations.
Gulf Coast State College provides its students with many opportunities to gain practical experience during their time in the program. Some examples include:
- Clinical rotations with local hospitals and clinics
- Simulation labs that allow students to practice procedures in a safe environment
- Interprofessional education experiences where students work alongside other healthcare professionals
- Community outreach programs that provide medical care to underserved populations
- Research projects that allow students to explore topics related to healthcare
Overall, Gulf Coast State College's Physician Assistant program provides its students with a rigorous academic curriculum combined with ample opportunities for hands-on learning experiences.
This combination ensures that graduates of the program are well-prepared for successful careers as physician assistants in any area of healthcare they choose to pursue.
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#12. St. Thomas University
Located in Miami Gardens, St. Thomas University offers a Master of Science in Medical Sciences program that provides students with a strong foundation in the basic medical sciences.
The program is designed to prepare students for professional health-related programs such as physician assistant, medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, and other allied health fields.
The curriculum includes courses in anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, microbiology, and pathology.
To be eligible for admission into the Master of Science in Medical Sciences program at St. Thomas University, applicants must have completed a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Additionally, applicants are required to submit official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended along with three letters of recommendation and a personal statement outlining their career goals and reasons for pursuing the program.
The tuition fees for the Master of Science in Medical Sciences program at St. Thomas University vary depending on whether you are taking full-time or part-time classes.
For full-time students (12-15 credits), the cost is $17,458 per semester while part-time students (less than 12 credits) pay $1,455 per credit hour.
Financial aid options are available to help offset the cost including scholarships and grants through both federal and state sources as well as private loans offered by banks or credit unions.
#13. Florida Gulf Coast University
Florida Gulf Coast University offers a Master of Science in Forensic Studies program, which is designed to prepare students for careers in the forensic science field. This program provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to investigate crimes and analyze evidence.
The curriculum covers a range of topics, including forensic biology, toxicology, chemistry, and crime scene investigation. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for a variety of career opportunities in forensics.
They may work as forensic scientists or analysts in government agencies, law enforcement organizations, or private laboratories. Other potential career paths include crime scene investigators, DNA analysts, and digital forensics specialists.
To be considered for admission to the Master of Science in Forensic Studies program at Florida Gulf Coast University, applicants must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
They must also submit official transcripts from all colleges attended and three letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
GRE scores are not required but may be submitted if available. Additionally, applicants should have completed courses in biology, chemistry, and mathematics at the undergraduate level.
#14. State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota
The State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota offers an Associate in Science in Crime Scene Technology program that equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to analyze crime scenes and evidence.
The program is designed for students who are interested in pursuing a career as a forensic technician or crime scene investigator. The curriculum includes courses such as forensic science, criminalistics, and crime scene photography.
Applicants must meet certain requirements to be admitted into the Crime Scene Technology program at State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota.
These include a high school diploma or GED, a minimum GPA of 2.0 or higher, and satisfactory scores on college placement tests in reading, writing, and mathematics. Students may also be required to complete prerequisite courses before being accepted into the program.
The campus facilities at State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota provide students with access to state-of-the-art labs and classrooms equipped with the latest technology. The campus features a library with online databases and resources available for research purposes.
Additionally, there are student services available including academic advising, tutoring services, and counseling services to help ensure that students have all the support they need to succeed academically.
#15. Palm Beach Atlantic University
Palm Beach Atlantic University offers a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Biology program that is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the biological and chemical aspects of forensic science.
The program is structured to prepare graduates for careers as forensic scientists, medical examiners, crime scene investigators, or laboratory technicians. Students acquire knowledge and skills in DNA analysis, toxicology, serology, pharmacology, and other areas.
To gain admission into Palm Beach Atlantic University's Forensic Biology program, applicants must meet specific requirements. These include having a high school diploma or GED equivalent and submitting all official transcripts from previously attended colleges or universities.
Additionally, applicants are required to have completed coursework in biology and chemistry with grades of C or higher.
Graduates of Palm Beach Atlantic University's Forensic Biology program have various career opportunities available to them.
Some graduates choose to pursue advanced degrees in related fields such as forensic science or medicine while others work directly in the field as forensic scientists or crime scene investigators.
Graduates may also find employment with government agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) or local law enforcement agencies.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the admission requirements for physician assistant programs in Florida?
The admission requirements for physician assistant programs in Florida typically include completion of prerequisite courses, attainment of a minimum GPA, clinical experience, and an interview process.
Prerequisite courses may vary depending on the program but often include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and chemistry.
Prospective students must also meet certain GPA requirements which usually range from 3.0 to 3.5 on a scale of 4.0.
Clinical experience is also essential as it provides students with hands-on training in healthcare settings and enhances their understanding of the profession.
The interview process is typically used to assess a candidate's communication skills, professional demeanor, and commitment to the field of medicine.
Overall, meeting these admission requirements demonstrates a student's preparedness for the rigorous academic demands of physician assistant programs in Florida.
How long do physician assistant programs in Florida typically take to complete?
Physician Assistant programs in Florida typically take about 24-27 months to complete.
These programs are designed to provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills needed to become competent healthcare professionals.
The PA program curriculum typically includes classroom instruction in subjects such as anatomy, pharmacology, physiology, medical ethics, and clinical medicine.
In addition to this coursework, students must also complete a series of clinical rotations that give them hands-on experience working with patients under the supervision of licensed physicians.
During these rotations, students have the opportunity to apply what they have learned in the classroom in real-world settings.
Overall, Physician Assistant programs in Florida provide rigorous training that prepares graduates for successful careers as healthcare professionals.
What is the job outlook for physician assistants in Florida?
The job outlook for physician assistants in Florida is promising. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of physician assistants is projected to grow 31 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.
The demand for healthcare services is expected to increase as the population continues to age and as chronic diseases become more prevalent.
In terms of work settings, physician assistants can be employed in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, outpatient care centers, and private practices.
Additionally, there may be opportunities for physician assistants in underserved areas where access to healthcare is limited. Overall, the future growth and demand for physician assistants in Florida suggest a positive career outlook in this field.
Are there any specialized physician assistant programs offered in Florida?
Physician Assistant (PA) programs in Florida offer various specializations tailored to meet the needs of different healthcare settings.
The PA profession is a highly dynamic field, and aspiring PAs can choose from several unique program features that cater to specific areas of interest.
Some of the specializations available include Emergency Medicine, Pediatrics, Orthopedics, Dermatology, Women's Health, and Cardiology.
These specialized programs usually have advanced coursework and clinical rotations focused on their respective fields of practice.
Unique program features in Florida PA schools may include interprofessional education opportunities with other health professions such as nursing and pharmacy.
Additionally, some institutions offer dual degree programs that combine PA education with other healthcare degrees like public health or business administration.
All these options allow prospective PAs to gain expertise in their preferred area of practice while also enhancing their career prospects within the ever-evolving healthcare industry.
What is the average salary for physician assistants in Florida?
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for physician assistants in Florida is $105,040 per year as of May 2020. This salary trend is higher than the national average for physician assistants.
Additionally, job benefits for physician assistants in Florida may include health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and continuing education opportunities.
These benefits can vary depending on the employer and experience level of the physician assistant.
It is important to note that salaries and benefits may also vary based on location within Florida and specialty areas within healthcare. Overall, physician assistant positions in Florida offer competitive salaries and attractive job benefits.
Conclusion
Physician assistant schools in Florida offer students an opportunity to pursue a career in the medical field.
The University of Florida, Barry University, Nova Southeastern University, Miami Dade College, Keiser University, St. Thomas University, Florida Gulf Coast University, State College of Florida Manatee-Sarasota, and Palm Beach Atlantic University are some of the top institutions that provide this program.
These schools offer rigorous academic coursework that prepares students for patient care and clinical practice.
Students learn about anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, clinical medicine, and other essential skills required for success as a physician assistant. Furthermore, they gain hands-on experience through various clinical rotations and internships.
In conclusion, pursuing a physician assistant degree from one of these prestigious institutions can lead to a fulfilling career in the healthcare industry.
The extensive education provided by these programs ensures that graduates have the knowledge necessary to make meaningful contributions as healthcare professionals.
Prospective students who possess strong interpersonal communication skills along with a passion for helping others may find this profession particularly rewarding.
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