Program Overview

Physician Assistant Studies, M.S.

School of Medicine Columbia

The Physician Assistant Studies program at the University of South Carolina's School of Medicine Columbia prepares students to become licensed medical providers who can conduct exams, diagnose and treat illnesses, write prescriptions, and more.

Program Highlights

• Ultrasound Focus: Learn the latest ultrasound techniques throughout your curriculum.
• Hands-on Training: Gain experience through authentic simulations, real-world training in local clinics, and cadaver-based anatomy instruction.
• Broad Experiences: Choose from a wide variety of specialties in your clinical rotations, including two electives of your choice.
• Accredited Program: Our program meets ARC-PA Standards with an Accreditation-Continued status achieved.

What You’ll Study

Our seven semesters include a strong science foundation in physiology, human gross anatomy, and genetics, along with the pathophysiology of diseases, ordering and interpreting diagnostic studies, and pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment options. It's a systems-based instructional approach to clinical medicine with a strong focus on primary care training.

Building Skills

• Listening Skills: Understanding what others are saying to facilitate effective communication.
• Human Health: Fostering well-being, preventing diseases, and optimizing physical, mental, and social aspects of individuals' well-being.
• Communication: Exchanging information and ideas through speaking, writing, or other means of expression.
• Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings of others, and demonstrating compassion and support.
• Collaboration: Working with others to achieve a common goal or objective.
• Critical Thinking: Analyzing and evaluating information to make informed decisions or judgments.

Using Your Degree

• Potential Careers: Physician Assistant.
• Workplace Settings: Health Systems, Emergency Medicine, Private Practice, Health Facilities.

Testimonial

"The PA Program not only helps you become a competent medical provider, but molds you into a well-rounded human, which is essential for patient care and a collaborative approach to medicine." - Reg Taylor

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