Physician Assistant

The South University Master of Science in Physician Assistant Program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills essential to excel as competent and compassionate healthcare clinicians in a wide variety of medical specialties. The Physician Assistant program is designed to provide an educational environment that empowers students to practice evidence-based, patient -centered medical care. Physician assistants are licensed clinicians who can diagnose illnesses, order and interpret diagnostic tests, develop and manage treatment plans, prescribe medications, and often serve as a patient’s principal healthcare provider.

Through a comprehensive medical curriculum, the program educates students to function collaboratively as valued members of the medical profession while providing high quality patient care. The scope of practice varies according to state laws, the medical setting, and the experience of the physician assistant. With an emphasis on increasing access to care, reducing health disparities, and engaging in community outreach, we aim to provide inclusive educational experiences for students, faculty, and staff.

South University Physician Assistant Program graduates are eligible to pursue licensure in all 50 states across the U.S. once they have passed the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) developed by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). South University does not guarantee third-party certification/licensure. Outside agencies control the requirements for taking and passing certification/licensing exams and are subject to change without notice to South University.  Students must pass the required licensure to work in their respective field.

Graduates are required to pass the national certification exam and obtain a state license in order to work in the field. (Exam names vary by program.) Please refer to the State Professional Licensure Determination and National Certification/Licensure section of the University catalog for additional information. South University cannot guarantee each graduate will pass the required licensure examinations. South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment or salary amounts.