Program Overview

Physician assistants, also known as PAs, work under the supervision of a physician to provide medical care. They provide diagnostic and therapeutic patient care in nearly all medical specialties and settings. In all states, PAs have the authority to write prescriptions.

To become a PA, you first have to complete a bachelor's degree, then go through two to three years of professional school and licensing to practice.

Pre-PA study is not a major. It is a preparatory track that can be incorporated into any major. Professional PA programs do not prefer any specific major; so long as you meet the professional program’s prerequisites, you can choose any major you want.

The Health Professions Student Center at WSU will help you integrate the prerequisites for your chosen area into your major. (There's more about choosing a major below.)