MSc PGDip Physician Associate Studies

A Bachelors Honours degree with 2:1, or equivalent, in a required subject.

Required subjects: Health or Science related subject, e.g.: Biology, Physiology, Neuroscience, Biological Science, Microbiology, Anatomical Science, Physiotherapy, Diagnostic Imaging, Radiotherapy, Paramedic Science, Audiology, Nursing, Operating Department Practice, Optometry, Biomedicine, Biomedical Sciences, Medical Science, Clinical Psychology, Pharmacy, Sports Science.

Excluded subjects: Health & Social Care*, Health Sciences*

*unless adequate levels of biology have been covered in these degrees

If you lack the formal academic qualifications needed to enter a postgraduate or post-experience degree, there are several alternative routes to follow – some based on experience. Contact the Future Students Enquiry Team for more information.

Please note: due to Health Education England (HEE) funding, applicants must have UK home status to be eligible to apply for this course.

For fees and funding options, please visit website to find out more

PAs are healthcare professionals who work to a medical model alongside doctors in hospitals or GP surgeries. Their role includes examining patients, diagnosing common problems, performing procedures, and recommending treatment.  

The Department of Health is committed to increasing the number of PAs in the NHS, particularly in general practice. In Dorset, there is a need for additional healthcare staff in acute hospitals and GP surgeries and it is expected that PAs will be part of the solution to this workforce shortage, so employment is highly likely after graduating. A typical starting salary for PAs is over £30,000. 

Please note that at present, graduates of UK Physician Associate Studies programmes are not eligible to work as Physician Associates in other countries. 

See our website for modules