Pre-PA at WSU

Why PA? 

Physician assistants, also called physician associates or PAs for short, are practicing medical professionals who hold a Master of Science degree. They examine, diagnose and treat patients under the supervision of a physician in a team setting. They can work in all areas of medicine, including primary care, emergency medicine, surgery and more. Specific job responsibilities vary from location to location, as does the level of physician supervision required by law. According to the U.S. Bureau and Labor Statistics, the 2021 median pay for physician assistants is $121,530 with a projected 31% job growth. 

PA programs have many more applicants than available seats. Each program has a different set of requirements. The Pre-Med and Health Science Center (PMHSC) advisors support Wayne State students in understanding and navigating the complex and competitive process to be admitted to a Physician assistant program.  

Pre-PA At WSU 

Preparing for PA programs, sometimes called "pre-PA", is not a major or minor. Students who identify themselves as "pre-PA" must apply to graduate school after completing their bachelor's degree. Advisors in the PMHSC work with students to plan coursework, engage in work and activities, and eventually apply to PA programs. 

Freshman or Transfer Student and Interested in becoming a PA? 

New WSU students should plan to attend Orientation and meet with their assigned advisor before their first semester at Wayne State. All Pre-PA students are expected to attend a Pre-PA Essentials meeting before scheduling a one-on-one advising appointment in the PMHSC.