Physician Associate Studies

Entry requirements

A 2:1 honours degree, or international equivalent, in a bioscience or related subject.

Some examples of degrees we regard as generally suitable are:

• anatomy
• biology
• biochemistry/medical biochemistry
• biomedical science
• dentistry
• human biology/physiology/pharmacology
• medical sciences
• Operating Theatre Practitioner
• pharmacy
• physiotherapy
• podiatry
• psychology (with a biological orientation)
• radiography
• zoology.

If you have a Health Sciences Diploma (eg Nursing) with extensive clinical experience, we may also consider you. We do not consider applications from candidates who have previously commenced a medical degree and failed to progress for any reason. See How to Apply information online for further details.

Months of entry

January, September

Course content

Our course will prepare you for the National Physician Associate entrance exam. Successful completion of the exam allows you to work as a Physician Associate (PA) within the NHS. You will gain skills in history taking, physical examination and diagnosis. You will also study clinical theory and undertake clinical placements.

This course will equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to qualify as a Physician Associate (PA). PAs are healthcare professionals with a generalist medical education who work alongside doctors, physicians, GPs and surgeons to provide medical care as an integral part of the multidisciplinary team.

PAs are dependent practitioners working with a dedicated consultant or GP supervisor, but are able to work autonomously with appropriate support. The course will suit graduates of a bioscience discipline.

PAs, while not doctors, work to the medical model, with the attitudes, skills and knowledge base to deliver holistic care and treatment with the general medical and/or general practice team under defined levels of supervision.

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Information for international students

Direct Entry: IELTS 7.5 overall (with a minimum of 7.0 in all sub-skills).

Fees and funding

See our course Fees and Funding web page in our online Prospectus.