MPAS Physician Associate Studies

The MPAS Physician Associate Studies program is designed to train students to become fully qualified physician associates. This healthcare professional is trained in the medical model and works under the supervision of doctors in hospitals and GP practices, supporting the diagnosis and treatment of patients.

Overview

The program offers industry-specific training, teaching from medical experts, and clinical placements. It is approved by the General Medical Council and provides students with the skills and knowledge to become a physician associate.

Learning Structure

The first two years of the program equip students with a strong biological science base and the ability to apply this learning to inform medical practice. The final two years mirror the established MSc Physician Associate Studies, with a focus on real-world experience and training.

Entry Requirements

• A Level: ABB including Biology and Chemistry
• GCSE: Mathematics B (5)
• International Baccalaureate: 32 points overall, including at least grade 5 in both higher-level Biology and Chemistry
• BTEC Extended Diploma: DDD, with specific units in Chemistry and Biology
• English language requirements: IELTS 6.5 overall, with no element less than 5.5

Additional Requirements

• Interview as part of the application process
• Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check for UK candidates
• Certificate of no criminal convictions or letter of good standing for non-UK candidates
• Occupational health questionnaire and declaration of health
• Up-to-date vaccinations, including MMR, varicella, and tuberculosis

Structure

The program consists of four years of full-time study, with compulsory modules in:

Year 1

• Professional Skills 1
• Nutrition and Public Health
• Fundamentals of Cell Biology
• Principles of Drug Action
• Introduction to Microbiology, Immunology, and Physiology
• Fundamentals of Microbiology

Year 2

• Professional Skills 2
• Medicines in Healthcare
• Selected Pathologies
• Haematology and Immunology
• Integrated Anatomy and Physiology

Year 3

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

Year 4

• Clinical Skills 2

Fees

• New UK/Republic of Ireland students: È9,790 for 2026 entry
• New international students: È30,650 for 2026/27
• Additional costs for field trips and extra resources
• Living costs and accommodation

Careers

Physician associates work in a variety of settings, including GP practices, community health services, and hospitals. They support doctors in the diagnosis and management of patients, performing tasks such as taking medical histories, examining patients, and developing management plans. The program has a high employment rate, with 96% of graduates in work or further study within 15 months of graduation.

Related Subjects

• Biomedical Sciences
• Healthcare
• Physician Associate Studies
• Medical Sciences

University of Reading

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Overview:

The University of Reading is a public research university located in Reading, Berkshire, England. It is known for its strong academic reputation and its commitment to providing a high-quality student experience.

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Academic Programs:

The University of Reading offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various subject areas, including:

Arts and Humanities:

Ancient History, Archaeology, Art, Classics, Creative Writing, Drama, English Language and Applied Linguistics, English Literature, Film and Television, History, Languages and Cultures, Linguistics, Museum Studies, Philosophy, Theatre & Performance, War and Peace Studies.

Science and Engineering:

Agriculture, Architecture, Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Biomedical Sciences, Bioveterinary Sciences, Chemistry, Climate Science, Computer Science, Ecology, Engineering, Mathematics, Medical Sciences, Meteorology and Climate, Microbiology, Nutrition, Pharmacology, Pharmacy, Zoology.

Business and Social Sciences:

Accounting, Business and Management, Consumer Behaviour and Marketing, Economics, Education, Finance, Healthcare, International Development, International Relations, Law, Marketing, Politics and International Relations, Psychology, Public Policy, Real Estate and Planning, Social Policy, Strategic Studies, Teaching.

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Other:

The University of Reading has a strong research focus and is ranked among the top universities in the world for its research output. It also has a strong commitment to sustainability and has been recognized for its efforts in this area.