Physician Assistants (PAs) are health professionals licensed to practice medicine with physician supervision. PAs perform a comprehensive range of medical duties, from primary care to practicing in various medical and surgical subspecialties. They work everywhere, from rural settings to major urban areas, hospitals, outpatient clinics, the armed forces, and other federal government agencies. The average salary exceeds $100,000, with a 31% expected growth in jobs between 2018-2028, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The mission of the Ithaca College Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program is to educate, engage and empower physician assistants to achieve excellence through medical theory, clinical practice, and exemplary professional performance in the communities we serve.
Our vision is to be recognized for our servant leadership through innovative thinking and an equity framework.
Our program offers several unique components:
- A new dedicated state of the art facility which includes a human anatomy lab, movement analysis lab, smart classrooms, and space for simulated clinical experiences.
- A focus on Team-Based Learning, in which learners will actively participate in problem-solving through dialogue and discussion.
- Collaborative teaching with other programs within the School of Health Science and Human Performance (physical therapy, occupational therapy, exercise science and athletic training, public health profession and speech-language pathology and audiology) as well as courses on Interprofessional Education and Practice.
- A Leadership and Professional Series to introduce learners to the PA profession and develop effective leadership and advocacy skills.
- Emphasis on mental health, with certification in Mental Health First Aid and Medication-Assisted Treatment.
- A Transition to Clinical Practice course, which prepares learners for the PANCE examination while also fine-tuning entry-level skills to ensure clinical readiness prior to graduation.