MSc Physician Associate

Program Overview

The University of Reading's MSc Physician Associate program prepares graduates for careers in healthcare as Physician Associates. Through classroom learning and extensive clinical placements in NHS settings, students gain the knowledge, skills, and experience required to work within the UK healthcare system. Graduates enjoy excellent career prospects due to the growing demand for PAs in the NHS.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The MSc Physician Associate program at the University of Reading provides essential training for individuals seeking a career as a healthcare professional. It is designed for life science graduates or those with significant healthcare experience. The program aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and clinical experience necessary to work as Physician Associates within the National Health Service (NHS).

Outline:

The program combines classroom-based learning with extensive workplace-based learning in NHS Primary and Secondary Care environments. Students engage in clinical placements throughout the program, with increased placement time in the final year. The curriculum is delivered in close partnership with practicing clinicians and covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Clinical Knowledge Core Systems
• Medical Research and Enquiry
• Clinical Skills 1

Teaching:

The program's teaching staff includes practicing physician associates and medical practitioners who provide support in both clinical learning and the practicalities of working within the NHS. Students also have the opportunity to interact with past graduates who have gained employment with placement partners.

Careers:

Physician Associates (PAs) are healthcare professionals who work as part of medical teams under the supervision of doctors or surgeons in various healthcare settings. They perform a range of roles, including taking medical histories, performing examinations, diagnosing illnesses, analyzing test results, and developing management plans. The PA role is flexible and is being developed across the NHS to meet staffing strategies. Graduates of the program have excellent career prospects due to the shortage of trained PAs in the UK.

Other:

• The program is open to international applicants who already have the right to work in the UK.
• Students are required to pay a £1,000 deposit to hold their place on the course.
• The program is subject to change as the university regularly reviews its module offerings to ensure they are informed by the latest teaching and research methods.

New UK/Republic of Ireland students: £11,900 New international students: £26,950 International applicants: Please note that, due to UK Home Office rules on placements, the MSc programme is open only to international applicants who already have the right to work in the UK. Additional costs These course fees cover the cost of your tuition. This course will require you to travel to placements in primary and secondary care settings throughout the programme and you will need to fund your own travel. You will need to have a professional standard stethoscope, these cost approximately £90 to £160. The Physician Associate National Certification Examination takes place outside of Reading and will therefore incur additional travel expenses. Some courses will require additional payments for field trips and extra resources. You will also need to budget for your accommodation and living costs.