Physician Associate Studies

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a minimum of a second class honours degree in a relevant subject. This may include the life sciences (e.g. biomedical science, biochemistry, anatomy, physiology, healthcare science) or allied health professions (e.g. pharmacy, audiology, nursing, midwifery, physiotherapy).

All applicants should hold GCSE qualifications in Maths and English at grade B or equivalent. Applicants with equivalent or non-standard qualifications will be considered on an individual basis.

Months of entry

January

Course content

Physician associates first joined the NHS workforce nearly ten years ago and are now employed throughout the UK in increasing numbers.

Physician associates are permanent members of the medical team, responsible for performing physical examinations, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests and recommending therapy. The role of physician associates is increasingly important within the healthcare workforce and individuals with this qualification are in demand.

Our PGDip/MSc in Physician Associate Studies aims to develop the skills required to become an effective practitioner through a combination of teaching and practical placements.

You will be trained according to the medical model and will work in collaboration with doctors and other healthcare professionals to diagnose and manage a wide range of common and complex diseases. Students registered for the Masters programme will also undertake a clinically relevant research project in their second year of study.

A range of benefits are provided by the University to support your career development:

• You may be eligible to receive some financial support during the course;

• Year 2 provides you with an elective period and the opportunity to develop your skills through working abroad;

• Develop your skills with the help of our excellent tutors and state-of-the-art clinical teaching facilities;

• Integrated training in prescribing safety (in anticipation of prescribing rights for physician associates) and communication skills is provided;

• The University will provide iPads with access to a range of online resources, which are essential during placements;

• At the end of the course, our 'preparation for practice' placement allows you to specialise in a specialty of your choice.

Qualification and course duration

PGDip