Program Overview

Program Overview

The Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program at the College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, is a two-year graduate program designed to foster excellence in training, research, and clinical practice. Our innovative curriculum will use a variety of teaching and learning strategies, with the second year of the program devoted to clinical placements throughout Saskatchewan, where travel will be expected. A research capstone project will be completed throughout the two years of the program.

Program Details

• Program: Master of Physician Assistant Studies (M.P.A.S.)
• Expected Length: 2 years
• Project and/or thesis: No
• Course based: Yes

Location

• Year 1: Saskatoon
• Year 2: At least one-third of second-year clinical placements are being planned to be located outside of Saskatchewan’s major urban centres (Saskatoon, Regina, and Prince Albert)

Accreditation

The program will seek accreditation through Accreditation Canada's EQual program, adhering to standards for Canadian PA programs

Why Choose the MPAS Program?

As the first of its kind in our province, the MPAS program is more than just training healthcare professionals; it’s about driving a transformative shift in healthcare delivery across Saskatchewan. Launched at a time when the need for change in our healthcare system is critical, our program is designed to equip you to be a key player in this evolution.

Benefits of the Program

• Immediate Workforce Entry: Graduate fully prepared to step directly into the healthcare workforce, with no need for additional certifications or post-graduate training.
• Personalized and Practical Training: Benefit from small class sizes, a favorable faculty-to-student ratio, and early clinical exposures.
• Balanced Lifestyle: Enjoy a rewarding career with more predictable hours and a focus on work-life balance compared to traditional physician roles.
• Patient-Centered Care: Become a vital member of the healthcare team, working closely with physicians to deliver comprehensive, patient-focused care.
• Commitment to Social Accountability: Our program’s mission is aligned with the healthcare needs of Saskatchewan, with a particular focus on improving access and quality of care for underserved and vulnerable populations.

Tuition and Funding

Funding

Graduate students at USask can receive funding from a variety of sources to support their graduate education.

Tuition

• Program: Master of Physician Assistant Studies
• Canadian students: $15,600.00 CAD per year
• International students: Not applicable (this program is only open to Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada)

Student Fees

In addition to tuition, students also pay fees for programs like health and dental insurance, a bus pass, and other campus services. The amount you need to pay depends on if you are taking classes full-time or part-time, and if you are on campus or not.

Admission Requirements

Master of Physician Assistant Studies (M.P.A.S.)

• A four-year undergraduate degree, or equivalent, from a recognized college or university awarded prior to entry into the program
• A cumulative weighted average of at least a 75% (USask grade system equivalent) in the last two years of study (e.g., 60 credit units)
• Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada
• Language Proficiency Requirement: Proof of English proficiency may be required for applicants to graduate programs
  • A minimum of three consecutive years of full-time study or completion of a graduate degree at a recognized post-secondary institution, where the exclusive language of instruction and examination of the program and/or institution is English; or,
  • Provision of evidence of English language proficiency, using one of the approved tests listed in the English Language Proficiency Policy
• Demonstration of full course load (30 credit units in a year) in at least two years of undergraduate degree, one of these two years needs to be included in the last sixty credit units. Exceptions may be considered.
• Completion of credit units in the following areas, with a minimum grade of 75%:
  • Indigenous Studies (3 credit units)
  • Human Anatomy (3 credit units)
  • Human Physiology (6 credit units)

Additional Coursework

Additional coursework in biochemistry, microbiology, genetics, psychology, and statistics is highly recommended, but not required.

Selection Criteria

Please note that this is a non-direct entry program, and admission will be determined through a competitive process that assesses both academic performance and personal qualities.

Ranking Applicants Prior to Interview (First File Review)

• Verification that all admissions requirements are met, or a plan is in place to meet them by the time of admission
• Cumulative weighted average (CWA) of the most recent 60 credit units
• Supplemental written and video assessment

Ranking Applicants After Interview for Acceptance to Program (Second File Review)

• Cumulative weighted average (CWA) of the most recent 60 credit units
• Supplemental written and video assessment
• Interview performance
• Reference review: While references are not scored, input from references is considered in the final file review and may be reviewed by the MPAS Admissions Committee
• MPAS Admissions Committee Review: The committee will make final admission recommendations to the College of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies

Application Process

Important Dates

• Applications Open: September 18, 2025
• Application Deadline: November 18, 2025
• Supplemental Assessments: January 2026
• Interview Invitations: February 2026
• Interviews: February-March 2026
• Admission Offers: May 2026
• Program Start: Fall 2026

Step 1: Review Requirements and Prepare Documents

Before you start, please be sure to review all information carefully, such as program details, admissions requirements, and other relevant information.

Step 2: Submit Your Application

During the application, you'll be asked for:

1. Personal Information: Your name, address, and other contact details
2. References: Include contact information for three references
3. Complete Academic History: Provide details for all post-secondary institutions attended, including required course prerequisites

Step 3: Submit Required Documents

Once you've submitted your online application, you will have access to upload your required documents, and provide the contact information for your references.

After You Apply

Notification of Admission Status

Successful applicants will be notified of their admission status via email in early June for the fall intake.

Accepting an Offer of Admission

• Accept the admission offer by the deadline mentioned in your offer letter
• Submit acknowledgement of essential skills and abilities
• Pay acceptance deposit: 10% of the total tuition fee

Other Requirements

Additional documentation may be required, such as a criminal record check, immunization records, respiratory fit testing, and Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.