Physician Assistant Studies, MSPAS

Program Overview

The Physician Assistant Studies program at UAB is a Master's degree focused on equipping students with the knowledge and skills to assist physicians in providing quality healthcare. The program includes both didactic studies and clinical rotations, preparing students for a variety of career paths in acute care, surgical settings, and medical settings. Emphasizing professional development and research, the program aims to prepare students for a successful career in healthcare.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Physician Assistant Studies program at UAB is a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MSPAS) degree. The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to assist physicians in providing quality healthcare in various settings. The program emphasizes both didactic and clinical training, preparing students to make diagnoses, prescribe medications, and provide patient care under the supervision of a licensed physician.

Outline:

The program consists of two main phases: didactic studies and clinical rotations.

• Didactic Studies: Students take courses in various medical and surgical subjects, including:
• Human Gross Anatomy
• Medical Physiology
• Clinical Pathology
• Clinical Medicine
• Surgical Disease
• Pharmacology
• Clinical Laboratory Medicine
• History and Physical Examination
• Electrocardiography
• Simulated Concepts
• Clinical Rotations: After completing didactic studies, students engage in a clinical year, which includes:
• Seven core rotations in different specialties
• Four elective rotations allowing students to focus on areas of interest
• Professional Development: The program also includes professional development classes focusing on interpersonal competencies essential for compassionate healthcare delivery in clinical practice.
• Research: Students participate in literature analysis, research courses, and a final research project, providing experience for pursuing higher education or scholarly opportunities.

Teaching:

The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures: Delivered by experienced faculty members.
• Small Group Discussions: Facilitating interactive learning and critical thinking.
• Clinical Simulations: Providing hands-on experience in a controlled environment.
• Clinical Rotations: Offering real-world experience under the supervision of licensed physicians.

Careers:

Upon graduation and certification as a Physician Assistant, students are eligible to practice medicine under the direct supervision of a licensed physician. Potential career paths include:

• Acute Care: Working in hospitals and emergency rooms.
• Surgical Settings: Assisting surgeons in operating rooms.
• Medical Settings: Providing primary care and specialty care in clinics and offices.

Other:

The program emphasizes the importance of professional development and research, preparing students for a successful career in healthcare.