Hi all,
I'm currently in my second semester of college and I plan on applying to PA school when I graduate. So far my gpa is a 3.8 and the prerequisites I have taken are General Chemistry 1 and 2, Biology, Intro to Sociology, STATS, and Psychology.
I'm wondering if a major in Kinesiology is the right choice since it is considered useless by many. If I continue this path of getting a good GPA, completing prereqs, volunteering and obtaining HCE hours can I go to PA school with a degree in Kinesiology? Or is it better to change my major to Biology, Chemistry, or Nursing?
Thanks!
The exercise and movement science program prepares you for admission into a physician assistant (PA) graduate program.
The exercise and movement science program is a 125-hour comprehensive degree with a core of exercise science/human performance classes and a pre-professional option area comprised of courses that are required for admission to PA graduate programs.
Courses specific to preparation for Physician Assistant programs
| Chemistry I | CHM 160/161 |
| Chemistry II | CHM 170/171 |
| Biology I | BIO 121 |
| Microbiology | BIO 310 |
| Genetics (w/lab) | BMS 231/BIO 235 |
| Physics I | PHY 123 |
| Human Anatomy | BMS 307 |
| Human Physiology | BMS 308 |
| Organic Chemistry I (w/lab) | CHM 342 /344 |
| Biochemistry (w/lab) | CHM 352/353 |
| Abnormal Psychology | PSY 304 |
| Lifespan Development | CFD 155 |
Universities often suggest additional classes as “suggested electives,” such as immunology.
Review admission requirements for each school that you are considering. Plan to schedule any additional class that you may need.
Helpful websites
Consult these websites for information on the field of physician assistant.
- MSU's physician assistant program
- Best PA schools (U.S. News rankings)
- Physician assistant salary (in Missouri)
Work experience
Many physician assistant schools require or recommend that you have paid experience as a health care provider prior to admission.
The requirement ranges from 800 to 2,000 hours of experience. Some students choose to acquire EMS (paramedic) or Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) certification (usually programs offered by community colleges) and paid employment in those positions.
Some work as techs in hospitals (emergency room techs), in nursing homes, for home health organizations, etc.
The SRU Exercise Science major is an excellent choice if you're preparing for graduate study and a career as a physician assistant.
Why Choose Exercise Science: Pre-Physician Assistant?
SRU Exercise Science is recognized as one of the best accredited undergraduate programs in the country. As an Exercise Science student at SRU, you'll become skilled in understanding the human body. You'll understand the psychology of motivation and how you can help your future patients reach their health-related goals. You'll also learn how to use advanced technology and receive hands-on learning experiences. You'll receive a strong science base-including anatomy, exercise physiology, and pathophysiology. And you'll learn how to apply that knowledge through practical experiences working with real people.
What are your options?
Exercise Science Pre-Physician Assistant SRU 3+2:
Earn a Master of Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies in five years rather than six. In the first three years, you complete your exercise science major courses and pre-requisites for the SRU PA program. At the end of your second year, you apply for admission into the SRU PA program. If
accepted, your first year in the SRU PA program meets the remaining requirements for your undergraduate degree. If not accepted, you continue to complete your undergraduate degree and can reapply to the program. The accelerated option is for incoming freshmen only. Exercise Science Pre-Physician Assistant (SRU Traditional):
Complete the requirements for your exercise science major and the pre-requisites for the SRU PA program and apply to the SRU PA program in
your senior year.
Career as a Physician Assistant
Upon completion of the Exercise Science undergraduate program and the Master of Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies program, you will be well prepared to embark on your career as a Physician Assistant, a booming profession with increasing demand.
Earn your degrees in Exercise Science and Physician Assistant Studies at SRU!
Interested in learning more about Physician Assistant Studies at SRU? Request more information today!