Pursuing a career as a Physician Assistant (PA) can be a rewarding and challenging profession. One of the top institutions for PA education is the Charles Drew University Physician Assistant Program. Located in Los Angeles, California, the program offers students a comprehensive education in the field of physician assistant studies. In this article, we will provide an in-depth overview of the program, its curriculum, admission requirements, and more.
About Charles Drew University
Charles Drew University of Medicine and Science (CDU) is a private university located in the Watts-Willowbrook area of South Los Angeles, California. The university was founded in 1966 and is named after Dr. Charles Drew, a renowned physician and medical researcher. CDU is known for its strong commitment to serving the underserved communities of Los Angeles and beyond.
Physician Assistant Program Overview
The Charles Drew University Physician Assistant Program is a 28-month Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MSPAS) program. The program is designed to prepare students for a career as a PA in a variety of healthcare settings. The curriculum is based on a primary care model, with a focus on providing high-quality patient care to diverse populations.
Curriculum
The PA program at CDU is divided into two phases: the didactic phase and the clinical phase. The didactic phase consists of 12 months of classroom instruction, where students learn about the fundamentals of medicine, pharmacology, anatomy, and physiology. The clinical phase consists of 16 months of clinical rotations, where students gain hands-on experience in a variety of healthcare settings.
Clinical Rotations
The clinical phase of the program consists of 16 months of rotations in the following specialties:
- Family Medicine
- Internal Medicine
- Pediatrics
- Surgery
- Emergency Medicine
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
Students also have the opportunity to participate in elective rotations in areas such as dermatology, orthopedics, and cardiology.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for admission to the PA program at CDU, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Earn a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
- Take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
- Complete prerequisite courses in anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, and physics
- Gain healthcare experience through volunteering or working in a healthcare setting
- Submit a personal statement and letters of recommendation
Accreditation
The Charles Drew University Physician Assistant Program is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA). Accreditation ensures that the program meets the standards of the PA profession and prepares students for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE).
Graduate Outcomes
Graduates of the PA program at CDU have achieved excellent outcomes, including:
- 100% graduation rate
- 100% first-time pass rate on the PANCE
- 95% employment rate within six months of graduation
Tuition and Fees
The tuition and fees for the PA program at CDU are as follows:
- Tuition: $63,000 per year
- Fees: $1,500 per year
- Total program cost: $126,000
Scholarships and Financial Aid
CDU offers scholarships and financial aid to PA students, including federal student loans and institutional scholarships. Students are also eligible to apply for external scholarships, such as the National Health Service Corps (NHSC) Scholarship.
Campus Life
The CDU campus is located in the Watts-Willowbrook area of South Los Angeles, California. The campus offers a variety of amenities, including a library, computer lab, and student lounge. Students also have access to the university's wellness center, which offers fitness classes, counseling services, and health education programs.
Gallery of CDU Physician Assistant Program
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the length of the PA program at CDU?
+The PA program at CDU is 28 months long.
What are the admission requirements for the PA program at CDU?
+Applicants must have a bachelor's degree, take the GRE, complete prerequisite courses, gain healthcare experience, and submit a personal statement and letters of recommendation.
Is the PA program at CDU accredited?
+Yes, the PA program at CDU is accredited by the ARC-PA.
In conclusion, the Charles Drew University Physician Assistant Program is a top-notch program that offers students a comprehensive education in the field of physician assistant studies. With its strong curriculum, experienced faculty, and excellent graduate outcomes, CDU is an excellent choice for students who are passionate about providing high-quality patient care to diverse populations.