The healthcare industry is a vital part of our society, and the demand for skilled medical professionals is on the rise. Among the various careers in healthcare, physician assistants (PAs) play a crucial role in providing high-quality patient care. If you're interested in pursuing a career as a PA, you may want to consider the Harding University Physician Assistant Program. In this article, we'll provide an overview of the program, its benefits, and what you can expect from this esteemed institution.
Why Choose Harding University?
Harding University is a private Christian university located in Searcy, Arkansas. Founded in 1924, the university has a long history of academic excellence and a strong commitment to its students. The university's physician assistant program is one of the many programs offered by the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. With a strong focus on academics, research, and community service, Harding University provides an ideal environment for students to grow and develop their skills.
Physician Assistant Program Overview
The Harding University Physician Assistant Program is a 28-month graduate program that leads to a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MSPAS) degree. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the principles and practices of medicine, preparing them to become competent and compassionate PAs.
Curriculum
The program's curriculum is divided into two phases: the didactic phase and the clinical phase. The didactic phase consists of 15 months of classroom instruction, where students learn about the fundamentals of medicine, including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and pathophysiology. The clinical phase consists of 13 months of clinical rotations, where students gain hands-on experience in various medical settings.
Clinical Rotations
The clinical rotations are a critical part of the program, providing students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings. The rotations include:
- Family Medicine
- Internal Medicine
- Surgery
- Pediatrics
- Emergency Medicine
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
Benefits of the Program
The Harding University Physician Assistant Program offers several benefits, including:
- Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA).
- Small Class Size: The program has a small class size, ensuring that students receive personalized attention and instruction.
- Experienced Faculty: The program's faculty consists of experienced PAs and physicians who are dedicated to teaching and mentoring students.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: The program has access to state-of-the-art facilities, including simulation labs and clinical skills training rooms.
Admissions Requirements
To be eligible for the program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Bachelor's Degree: Applicants must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
- GPA: Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
- Prerequisite Courses: Applicants must have completed prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.
- GRE: Applicants must submit GRE scores.
- CASPA: Applicants must submit their application through the Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA).
Application Process
The application process for the Harding University Physician Assistant Program involves several steps:
- Submit Application: Applicants must submit their application through CASPA.
- Transcripts: Applicants must submit official transcripts from all previous institutions.
- Letters of Recommendation: Applicants must submit three letters of recommendation.
- Personal Statement: Applicants must submit a personal statement outlining their motivation for pursuing a career as a PA.
- Interview: Applicants who meet the minimum requirements may be invited for an interview.
Conclusion
The Harding University Physician Assistant Program is a highly respected program that offers students a comprehensive education in the principles and practices of medicine. With its strong focus on academics, research, and community service, Harding University provides an ideal environment for students to grow and develop their skills. If you're interested in pursuing a career as a PA, we encourage you to consider the Harding University Physician Assistant Program.
Gallery of Physician Assistant Program
FAQs
What is the length of the Physician Assistant Program at Harding University?
+The Physician Assistant Program at Harding University is a 28-month graduate program.
What is the curriculum of the Physician Assistant Program like?
+The curriculum consists of 15 months of classroom instruction and 13 months of clinical rotations.
Is the Physician Assistant Program at Harding University accredited?
+Yes, the program is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA).