What Bachelors Degree Did You Have Before Entering PA School?

The journey to becoming a physician assistant (PA) often involves a range of educational paths. Individuals come to PA school with diverse backgrounds, and it's not uncommon for them to hold a bachelors degree in a variety of fields before embarking on their PA education. This article explores the different educational experiences of aspiring PAs and highlights the common prerequisites for prospective students.

Common Bachelors Degrees for Physician Assistants

Many future PAs obtain a bachelors degree in a field closely related to healthcare or science. For instance, a respiratory therapist with six years of experience in various healthcare settings, such as NICU, PICU, and ICU, may have a background in fields like psychology or business before transitioning into the healthcare field. Their transition into PA school involved taking additional science and math classes, which are crucial prerequisites, and gaining supervisory experience in a medical environment.

Building on this, the pursuit of a bachelors degree in neuropsychology and french with a minor in linguistics showcases how a well-rounded education can provide a solid foundation for PA school. Students who choose such diverse educations gain a broader appreciation for human behavior, global perspectives, and the complexities of human communication, which can be incredibly valuable in patient care.

Nursing vs. Non-Nursing Backgrounds

While some PAs come from a nursing background, there are also many who enter PA school with a non-nursing background. A Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Journalism for 11 years before entering PA school highlights the diversity of educational pathways. Even though direct healthcare experience might be lacking, the journalism degree provides excellent skills in communication, research, and critical thinking, which are highly valuable in the PA profession.

Both groups of students, whether from a healthcare or non-healthcare background, need to fulfill certain prerequisites before applying to PA school. This typically includes taking relevant science classes such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, biochemistry, and pharmacology. Some programs may also require additional electives, like sociology, to create a well-rounded educational experience.

Importance of Prerequisites and Electives

The importance of prerequisites and electives cannot be overstated. These courses help ensure that applicants have a strong foundation in the sciences, which is essential for succeeding in PA school. Taking the appropriate classes can also enhance a student's application, making them more competitive for admission.

Elective courses can be chosen based on personal interests or career goals. For instance, a student with a background in journalism might take courses in public health communication, while a student with a background in linguistics might explore medical interpreting. These choices can complement their existing skill sets and make them more versatile healthcare providers.

Preparing for PA School Admission

To prepare for PA school, aspiring PAs should:

Identify a program that aligns with their career goals.

Take necessary prerequisite classes such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and pharmacology.

Earn a competitive GPA by excelling in these subjects.

Gain relevant healthcare experience to strengthen their application.

Consider taking elective classes related to healthcare fields, especially if they hold a non-healthcare degree.

In conclusion, a wide range of bachelors degrees can prepare individuals for a career as a physician assistant. Whether you have a background in respiratory therapy, journalism, or another field, the key is to take the necessary pre-PA prerequisites and develop a well-rounded education. Whether you have a healthcare or non-healthcare background, with the right preparation, you can embark on a successful journey to becoming a competent and compassionate physician assistant.