Barry University Physician Assistant Program Requirements: A Comprehensive Guide
Aspiring physician assistants seeking a top-notch education may find Barry University’s Physician Assistant (PA) Program an ideal choice. Renowned for its rigorous curriculum, clinical training, and exceptional faculty, the program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the healthcare field. This comprehensive guide outlines the admission requirements, program structure, and career opportunities for individuals considering Barry University’s PA Program.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for consideration, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
- Completion of prerequisite courses in science, mathematics, English, and social sciences (see table below)
- Healthcare experience (minimum of 500 hours)
Prerequisite Courses
| Course | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| Biology (with labs) | 12 |
| Chemistry (with labs) | 12 |
| Physics (with labs) | 8 |
| Mathematics (including statistics) | 6 |
| English | 6 |
| Social Sciences | 6 |
Program Structure
Barry University’s PA Program is a two-year, full-time program that prepares students for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE). The curriculum combines didactic coursework, laboratory sessions, clinical rotations, and research experiences.
Year 1
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Pharmacology
- Medical Microbiology
- Clinical Diagnostics
- Patient Assessment
- Interprofessional Education
Year 2
- Clinical Medicine
- Surgery
- Pediatrics
- Emergency Medicine
- Psychiatry
- Research
Clinical Rotations
Clinical rotations provide students with hands-on experience in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and rural health centers. Students work closely with practicing physicians, PAs, and other healthcare professionals, gaining valuable clinical skills and patient care experience.
Research
Students engage in research projects to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They collaborate with faculty mentors to explore topics related to PA practice, healthcare policy, and patient outcomes.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of Barry University’s PA Program are highly sought after by healthcare organizations throughout the United States. PAs work in a wide range of settings, including:
- Hospitals
- Clinics
- Urgent care centers
- Long-term care facilities
- School systems
- Community health centers
Earning Potential
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for physician assistants in May 2022 was $123,450. The top 10% of earners made over $186,450.
Why Choose Barry University’s PA Program?
- Exceptional Faculty: Renowned faculty with extensive clinical and academic experience guide students through the program.
- Rigorous Curriculum: A challenging curriculum that prepares students for the PANCE and a successful career as a PA.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Modern laboratory and clinical simulation facilities provide students with the tools and resources they need to succeed.
- Clinical Partners: Partnerships with major healthcare systems provide students with valuable clinical rotation experiences.
- Supportive Community: A supportive and collaborative environment that fosters student success and professional development.
Conclusion
Barry University’s Physician Assistant Program offers an unparalleled educational experience for aspiring healthcare professionals. With its rigorous curriculum, clinical training, and exceptional faculty, the program equips graduates with the knowledge, skills, and mindset to make a meaningful impact in the field of medicine.
