Physician assistants (PAs) play a vital role in the healthcare system, providing high-quality patient care and support to medical teams. If you're considering a career as a PA, the Charles Drew University Physician Assistant Program is an excellent option to explore. In this article, we'll delve into the program's overview, curriculum, admission requirements, and more, to help you make an informed decision.
The Importance of Physician Assistants in Healthcare
Before we dive into the specifics of the Charles Drew University Physician Assistant Program, let's take a moment to appreciate the significance of PAs in the healthcare landscape. Physician assistants are advanced practice clinicians who work under the supervision of physicians to provide primary and specialty care to patients. They are trained to diagnose and treat illnesses, develop treatment plans, and prescribe medications.
The demand for PAs is on the rise, driven by an aging population, an increased focus on preventive care, and a shortage of primary care physicians. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of PAs is projected to grow 31% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Charles Drew University Physician Assistant Program
Located in Los Angeles, California, Charles Drew University (CDU) is a private university that offers a Master of Health Science (MHS) degree in Physician Assistant Studies. The program is designed to prepare students for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) and for a successful career as a PA.
Mission and Values
The CDU Physician Assistant Program is built on a foundation of academic excellence, diversity, and community engagement. The program's mission is to educate and train PAs who are equipped to provide high-quality, patient-centered care to diverse populations, with a focus on underserved communities.
The program's values include:
- Academic excellence and rigor
- Diversity, equity, and inclusion
- Community engagement and service
- Patient-centered care
- Interprofessional collaboration
Curriculum
The CDU Physician Assistant Program is a 28-month, full-time program that includes both didactic and clinical training. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the sciences, as well as the skills and knowledge needed to practice as a PA.
The program's curriculum includes:
- Didactic phase (12 months): Students complete coursework in the sciences, including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and pharmacology.
- Clinical phase (16 months): Students participate in clinical rotations in a variety of settings, including primary care, specialty care, and surgery.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for admission to the CDU Physician Assistant Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Earn a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
- Complete prerequisite coursework in the sciences, including anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry
- Take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
- Gain healthcare experience, either paid or volunteer
- Submit a personal statement and letters of recommendation
Accreditation and Certification
The CDU Physician Assistant Program is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA). Graduates of the program are eligible to take the PANCE, which is required for certification as a PA.
Clinical Rotations
The CDU Physician Assistant Program offers a variety of clinical rotations in diverse settings, including:
- Primary care
- Specialty care
- Surgery
- Emergency medicine
- Pediatrics
- Obstetrics and gynecology
Faculty and Staff
The CDU Physician Assistant Program is taught by a team of experienced faculty and staff who are dedicated to providing students with a high-quality education. The program's faculty includes:
- Physician assistants
- Physicians
- Scientists
- Healthcare professionals
Alumni and Career Opportunities
Graduates of the CDU Physician Assistant Program have gone on to pursue successful careers in a variety of settings, including:
- Primary care
- Specialty care
- Surgery
- Emergency medicine
- Pediatrics
- Obstetrics and gynecology
CDU PA program alumni have also pursued careers in academia, research, and healthcare leadership.
Gallery of Physician Assistant Program Images
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average GPA of students accepted into the CDU Physician Assistant Program?
+The average GPA of students accepted into the CDU Physician Assistant Program is 3.5.
How long does it take to complete the CDU Physician Assistant Program?
+The CDU Physician Assistant Program is a 28-month, full-time program.
What type of clinical rotations are available in the CDU Physician Assistant Program?
+The CDU Physician Assistant Program offers a variety of clinical rotations in diverse settings, including primary care, specialty care, surgery, and emergency medicine.
In conclusion, the Charles Drew University Physician Assistant Program is a highly respected program that offers students a comprehensive education in the sciences and the skills and knowledge needed to practice as a PA. With a strong focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, the program is committed to preparing PAs who are equipped to provide high-quality, patient-centered care to diverse populations.