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Biomedical Sciences: Building a Purposeful Career

Keiser University offers a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences with a Pre-Physician Assistant concentration designed for students pursuing acceptance into physician assistant graduate programs. Our degree program prepares you with the scientific foundation and clinical knowledge needed to succeed in competitive PA programs and join the PA profession.

Master Prerequisite Courses for PA School

Complete essential prerequisite courses including organic chemistry with labs, general chemistry with labs, anatomy and physiology, and other science requirements that many PA programs require for admission.

Gain Clinical Experiences and Healthcare Exposure

Build your skills with guidance on clinical requirements, patient care experiences, and direct observation that strengthen your path to PA school.

Prepare for the Advanced Examination

The Pre-Physician Assistant program provides students with the skills necessary to succeed in many biology based careers and entry into graduate programs

Access Pre Health Advisor Support

Work closely with advisors who provide personal statement reviews, simulated interviews, and guidance through the application process for physician assistant programs.

At a Glance

121

Credit Hours

13

Courses

35

Months*

4

Week Terms

  • Up to 12 credits of transfer credit*
  • Career opportunities in biology-based careers while preparing for PA programs
  • Available On-Campus
  • Financial aid for those who qualify**

* Time to degree completion and the number of transfer credits are estimates, not intended as a guarantee, and can vary based on many case-by-case factors.
** Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all your financial aid and funding options

Biomedical Sciences, BS (Pre-Physician Assistant) Overview

Keiser University’s Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Sciences with a Pre-Physician Assistant concentration provides student-centered education preparing future generations of scientists and health professionals. Our degree program emphasizes the coursework and clinical knowledge that PA schools require while building laboratory techniques routinely applied in medical science and medicine.
 
Students pursuing this pre PA major receive comprehensive preparation through rigorous science courses, development of critical thinking skills, and advisor guidance on graduate program requirements. Our pre health advisor support includes assistance with personal statements, resume reviews, and simulated interviews that mirror the actual application process for physician assistant programs.
 
The curriculum meets admission requirements for many PA programs while preparing qualified students for various graduate programs in health professions and allied health fields. All students learn within a dynamic environment that fosters creativity, discovery, and integrity.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Keiser University Biomedical Sciences Program is to provide world class, student-centered education by preparing future generations of scientists and health professionals in a dynamic environment that fosters creativity, discovery and integrity.

Program Goals

  • Students will become critical thinkers capable of evaluating content relating to the biomedical sciences field and synthesize their own conclusions.
  • Students will be capable of conducting scientific investigations and appropriately report their findings.
  • Students will master core biomedical sciences concepts and will be capable of examining specific mechanisms and processes within biomedical sciences.

Prerequisites for Major Courses

  • Minimum grade of “C” for lower level math and science courses
  • Successfully completed all lower division math and science requirements before beginning upper division coursework

Program Highlights

  • Preparation for Physician Assistant Graduate Programs – This program is designed to help students build the academic foundation needed for admission into physician assistant graduate programs through focused science coursework and pre-professional preparation.
  • Personalized Graduate Application Support – Students receive guidance on graduate program clinical requirements, simulated interviews, and reviews of personal statements and résumés to help strengthen their applications.
  • Strong Science and Laboratory Curriculum – The curriculum includes advanced courses such as microbiology, genetics, immunology, epidemiology, pathology, and molecular biology, helping students develop practical laboratory and scientific analysis skills.
  • Accelerated Path to Degree Completion – The program requires 121 credit hours and can typically be completed in approximately 35 months, depending on transfer credits.

Estimated Student Costs

Required and Optional Fees for Programs: Fees are costs set by the university in addition to tuition (and room and board, if applicable). These fees may be required for your program or optional depending on the courses you take, and they support the costs associated with completing an approved program of study. Fees are defined in the university’s catalog or supplement and listed on the school’s billing statement or invoice. Fees that are optional will not be paid using GI Bill® benefits and will be the responsibility of the student choosing these additional options. For additional guidance, please see your Program Director or Admissions Counselor.

Accreditation Statuses

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Learn more about Keiser University accreditation. While this program doesn’t require programmatic accreditation, the SACSCOC accreditation ensures Keiser University meets rigorous quality standards, which is crucial for students as it affects access to federal financial aid, the transferability of credits to other accredited schools, and recognition of degrees for programs and employers. This accreditation signifies that the institution adheres to standards that ensure educational quality and institutional effectiveness.

Program Outline

Available On-Campus
 
Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences (Pre-Physician Assistant Concentration)
 
The Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Sciences with a Pre-Physician Assistant concentration prepares students for admission to physician assistant graduate programs by providing graduates with the fundamentals required for transitioning into advanced degrees and professional school. This degree program builds a strong foundation of critical inquiry, scientific analysis, and biological knowledge required for success in graduate programs.
 
To receive a Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Sciences with a Pre-Physician Assistant Concentration, students must earn 121 credit hours as follows:

Lower Division Courses

Lower Division Sciences Courses (32.0 credit hours)
General Chemistry 3.0 credit hours
General Chemistry Laboratory 1.0 credit hour
Advanced Chemistry 3.0 credit hours
Advanced Chemistry Laboratory 1.0 credit hour
Organic Chemistry 3.0 credit hours
Organic Chemistry Laboratory 1.0 credit hour
Organic Chemistry II 3.0 credit hours
Organic Chemistry II Laboratory 1.0 credit hour
Physics I 3.0 credit hours
Physics I Laboratory 1.0 credit hour
Physics II 3.0 credit hours
Physics II Laboratory 1.0 credit hour
Anatomy and Physiology 4.0 credit hours
Anatomy and Physiology II 4.0 credit hours
Lower Division General Education Courses (43.0 credit hours)
Behavioral/Social Science (6.0 credit hours)
Introduction to Psychology (required) 3.0 credit hours
Lifespan Development 3.0 credit hours
Sociology 3.0 credit hours
Communications (3.0 credit hours)
Speech Communication 3.0 credit hours
Computers (3.0 credit hours)
Introduction to Computers 3.0 credit hours
English (6.0 credit hours)
English Composition 3.0 credit hours
English Composition 3.0 credit hours
Humanities/History (6.0 credit hours)
American Literature 3.0 credit hours
English Literature 3.0 credit hours
Contemporary World Literature 3.0 credit hours
Introduction to Philosophy 3.0 credit hours
American History Pre 1877 3.0 credit hours
American History Post 1877 3.0 credit hours
Mathematics (8.0 credit hours)
Statistics 3.0 credit hours
Calculus and Analytic Geometry I 5.0 credit hours
Economics (3.0 credit hours)
Microeconomics 3.0 credit hours
Macroeconomics 3.0 credit hours
Natural Sciences (8 credit hours)
Biology I 3.0 credit hours
Biology I Laboratory 1.0 credit hour
Biology II 3.0 credit hours
Biology II Laboratory 1.0 credit hour

Upper Division Courses

Upper Division Sciences Courses (36.0 credit hours)
Microbiology I 3.0 credit hours
Microbiology Laboratory 1.0 credit hours
Genetics 3.0 credit hours
Genetics Laboratory 1.0 credit hours
Molecular Biology I 3.0 credit hours
Molecular Cell Biology Laboratory 1.0 credit hours
Immunology 3.0 credit hours
Epidemiology 3.0 credit hours
Fundamentals of Pathology 3.0 credit hours
Intermediate Statistics 3.0 credit hours
Concepts of Clinical Psychology 3.0 credit hours
Upper Division General Education Courses (6.0 credit hours)
Bioinformatics 3.0 credit hours
Health Law and Ethics 3.0 credit hours
Writing for the Technical Professional 3.0 credit hours

Free Elective Courses (6.0 credit hours) – Free elective may be chosen from either upper or lower division courses.

If you’re someone who cares about…

Making a real difference in patient care, wants to work directly with people in healthcare settings, and seeks to practice medicine alongside physicians,

a pre PA pathway might be your calling.

Pre PA students bring curiosity about human health, dedication to mastering complex sciences, and genuine compassion for patients across the lifespan.

Whether you envision yourself working in doctors offices, specialty medicine, or underserved communities, this pathway provides the knowledge base to turn your commitment into meaningful patient impact.

Biomedical Sciences Pre-PA, BS
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Top 25 university in the country in providing Social Mobility, including being ranked #1 in 2023
(U.S. News & World Report)

The Chronicle of Higher Education

#2 Best 4-year graduation rates, private, nonprofit, nonresidential
(2023, The Chronicle of Higher Ed.)

What Jobs Can You Get After Completing a Pre-Physician Assistant Program?

Graduates of Keiser University’s Biomedical Sciences program with a Pre-Physician Assistant concentration gain the scientific foundation needed to apply to competitive PA schools. While the bachelor’s degree itself prepares students for various biology-based careers and allied health positions, the primary goal remains admission to physician assistant graduate programs where students can pursue their ultimate career goal of becoming a certified PA.

After completing a physician assistant program and earning the required professional certification, graduates can pursue careers providing quality health care across diverse settings. According to labor statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for physician assistants continues to grow significantly.

Career Pathways as a Physician Assistant

  • Physician Assistant in primary care settings and doctors offices
  • PA in emergency medicine
  • Physician Assistant in surgical specialties working under physician supervision
  • PA in pediatrics or family medicine
  • Physician Assistant in dermatology
  • Physician Assistant in mental health
  • PA in urgent care facilities
  • Certified Physician Assistant in specialty practices
  • Medical researcher
  • Healthcare educator in allied health programs
Biomedical Sciences Pre-PA, BS

Gain Job-Ready Skills for a Physician Assistant Career

  • Advanced scientific analysis and research methods
  • Critical thinking in biomedical contexts
  • Laboratory techniques used in medical science and medicine
  • Medical terminology and health care communication
  • Statistical analysis for scientific research
  • Understanding of anatomy, physiology, and pathology
  • Evidence-based practice foundations
  • Professional and ethical decision-making in healthcare
  • Preparation for graduate entrance exam success
  • Skills applicable to allied health careers

Keiser University offers career-oriented education with small class sizes and flexible learning options throughout Florida. With on-campus learning environments at our college campuses, experienced faculty with real-world expertise, and comprehensive student support, Keiser helps learners achieve their professional goals in health science and beyond.

We provide a student-centered approach where each student earns individualized attention from faculty members who understand the demands of preparing for physician assistant studies.

See What Sets Keiser Apart

Devin Baxter, a two-time Keiser University graduate, earned a degree in Biomedical Sciences after previously completing an associate degree in Medical Assisting at Keiser University. Inspired by her positive academic experience and the guidance of a supportive professor, she decided to pursue a career path toward becoming a physician assistant.
 
Devin values the one-on-one attention she received from instructors and appreciates how the program’s flexibility has allowed her to balance her education with work and raising her two children. Graduating for the second time is a meaningful achievement for her and her family, as it sets a strong example for her children and marks an important milestone in her journey.

Students Testimonials

At Keiser University we are here to help you succeed by providing the professional and academic foundation to meet your educational goals and objectives.

Tom Buchanan
Keiser University Nursing Student

Tom Buchanan, a military veteran and nursing student, says Keiser helped him transition into a meaningful healthcare career where he could continue serving his community. He appreciates the strong support available to veterans, including a dedicated VA adviser who is responsive, helpful, and committed to ensuring students fully use the benefits they earned through service.

Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay
Cinematic Arts program graduate

Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay, a Cinematic Arts program graduate, has shared her positive experience. She expressed gratitude to her professors, Samantha Kountz and Jean Jacques, for their encouragement and support during her studies. Her story highlights a passion for film production and acknowledges the program’s contribution to her success.

Kadeshia Rose
Keiser University Software Engineering Student

The environment is friendly. The instructors really actually care about how you are going to get your degree. Keiser was a great fit.

Kennedy Foster
Sports Management Graduate

Keiser University has always supported me in every aspect of my life. Athletically, they have provided top-notch coaches, athletic trainers, and strength coaches who truly helped mold and build me into the player that I am today. Academically, my professors brought out the best in me and constantly made me think critically in real-world situations, and professionally, my professors truly prepared me for my current job. Every task I am given, I can think back to my time at KU and think of an assignment or discussion that I had.

Antigonie Sanabria
Sports Management student

I picked Keiser because, first of all, it’s a school sports management, so I knew that there would be a higher focus of that here, and I knew I could get the best education that I wanted to have if I attended.

Lee Tamburro
Crime Scene Technology student

Being able to solve problems and try to figure out what exactly happened and try to help whoever is the victim is amazing. In a smaller classroom setting you have more time with your teacher. A lot of times you’re just a name on a paper in a bigger class but in Keiser’s smaller classes format, it’s a little more personable, and one class at a time is very helpful.

Amya Black
Culinary Arts, AS degree student

I chose Keiser because of a good friend of mine. She graduated last year and hearing all the good things about the program really made a difference. And this is possibly the best school experience I’ve had. Your teachers know your name. They know your personality. They know what to expect of you. Honestly, they push you to be the best version of yourself.

Marcus Walton
Keiser University Cybersecurity student

Keiser University is one big giant family and I feel that I’ve I learned a lot more here than I would on a traditional campus. This university has changed my life; I’m more assertive, I am completing tasks more efficiently, and I’ve learned a whole lot about it and cyber security.

Haley Roberge
BS in Forensic Investigations graduate

What I love about Keiser is the fact that there’s intimate class sizes, teachers that actually care about what you’re going to school for and they have real life experience; they’re going to be there for you throughout your journey; it’s not just you see that teacher one time and you’re done.

Will Doyle
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Graduate

I heard about Keiser University through a battle buddy that I was overseas with in the military. For me school was tough; the more one-on-one attention at Keiser helped me a lot and the teachers that seemed to reach out to you and care. I think that little push right there kept me dedicated. I became a gym owner because I got the skills I needed at Keiser.

Alex Avila
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Student

Hands On, Practical Instruction. We have incredible instructors who are very knowledgeable in this field.

Jacvelyne Michel
Keiser University Nursing Student

I chose to study at Keiser University because they offer the accelerated nursing program which I could get my BS in in 16 months. They push us to do our best and they’re very fixated on us passing all of our classes and understanding the concepts. And they really prepare us well for the NCLEX exam.

Ryan G
Culinary Arts Graduates

“I know that when I go for a job interview and I have Keiser University on my resume that I am going to get the job.”

Jillian Bellis
Keiser University Nursing Student

Jillian Bellis, a nursing student, says Keiser University gave her the opportunity to return to school and pursue her lifelong passion for nursing. She highlights key benefits of Keiser, including flexible pathways for adult learners and career changers, supportive programs designed for students at different life stages, and the chance to pursue meaningful, career-focused education later in life.

Solange Mondesir
Keiser University College of Nursing Student

Seeing Keiser nurses out in the field – Keiser pushes out good nurses. So, I know I’m going to be prepared once I step out of the program.

Kadeshia Rose
Keiser University Software Engineering Student

The environment is friendly. The instructors really actually care about how you are going to get your degree.  Keiser was a great fit.

Kiefer Suau
Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering graduate

Keiser University provided me with the foundation to turn ambition into action, equipping me with the discipline, purpose, and support necessary to make a lasting impact. The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology, while advancing my career as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst for Behavioral Pedestal LLC and Spring Health ABA.

Brian Mardy, RN
Associates of Science Degree in Nursing

I was an active reservist and wanted to enter nursing. Keiser University provided me with new opportunities to do much more in life.

Gaelen Przybylowicz
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations – Forensics Concentration Graduate

I learned a lot about my subject field while attending Keiser. All my teachers continually promoted success and successful thinking, and my peers helped me to a higher standard than others because they knew I could achieve more.

Christy Marek
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations Graduate

KU taught me how to thoroughly do an investigation, read a police report, and understand crime scenes and photos of crime scenes along with any other evidentiary items. I really loved the classes in our program as well as being able to focus on one class a month. It allowed me to learn more.

Brandon Alexander Presley
Legal Studies Student

“My experience at Keiser has been incredible, especially because of the small class sizes—they’re really catered to us and make learning more personal and engaging. As a veteran, I was worried about adjusting back to a structured routine, but the campus made that transition much easier.   Overall, this campus has truly become like a family to me.”

Sarah S.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate

I cannot thank Keiser University enough for the experience and the learning opportunities I have had here. I never thought that at 20 years old, I would be halfway through my bachelor’s degree and working full-time as a medical assistant.

Quondra B.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate

“I have had the experience of dealing with classes that accommodated my schedule of being a full-time employee as well as a full-time mother of three. The hands-on experience and the knowledge received was outstanding. I was elated by the amount of information I received in such a short period of time.”

Danna Murphy
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate

“I really enjoyed the small class sizes and having an advisor at the campus who was able to guide me when I needed advice. I could take the program online, which helped tremendously as I was staying home with my children. Being able to do my schoolwork on my own timetable helped me to be accessible for my children and my husband.”

Arisnelvys Gonzalez, JD
Paralegal Studies Graduate

“Keiser University provided me with everything I needed for my future career as a licensed Florida Bar Attorney. While at KU I retained an Associates Degree in the Paralegal Studies Program. The Program helped me develop not only the essential skills a paralegal is required to hold but also long-term practical and professional skills.”

Justin Pugh
Full Stack Engineer

“The instructors at Keiser University impacted my life. They believed in my ability to become a great graphic designer, regardless of how I felt about my skills. KU helped to prepare me for the real world and got me to where I am today.”

John F. Phelan
Fire Chief – Mashpee, MA

“When I first enrolled, I was new to the online educational environment and nervous as to how the experience would go. Keiser University has a knack for selecting educators who are perfect for this method of instruction, which allowed me and my fellow classmates to get up to speed quickly.”

Wayne Webb
Criminal Justice Graduate

“KU prepared me for Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and the Florida State Correctional program. I have finally reached my goal of becoming a full-time deputy, with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.”

Emily Emilov
Forensic Investigations Graduate

“At Keiser University we’re here to help you succeed by providing the professional and academic foundation to meet your educational goals and objectives.”

Ayden Przybylowicz
Associate of Science in Culinary Arts Graduate

“Because of the experiences I had at Keiser, along with the contacts I made, I made great progress throughout my career already. I thoroughly enjoyed the quality of my education at KU.”

Jennifer Kotzur
Curriculum and Instruction, PhD

“The C & I program at Keiser University is one of the best PhD programs, offering student-center learning and student-first learning. KU provided the rigor and growth I needed to be prepared for my future endeavors.”

Marie Boone
Family Nurse Practitioner, MSN

“I chose Keiser University because I was looking for a local University that was flexible and suited my needs as a parent and full-time RN. The weekly live interactions with the professors were a definite plus. The tuition was reasonable and less than other Universities. Keiser University’s motto, “purity, truth, wisdom” was honored by the commitment of the nursing faculty to the students.”

Javier Araque
Keiser University’s College of Nursing

“My name is Javier Araki, and I’m in the nursing program at Keiser University. What stands out most to me is their students-first approach. Everything is centered on preparing us for the real-world demands of the field. The faculty and staff genuinely support you and help in every way they can. Because of that environment, I truly feel empowered and confident about my future in nursing.”

Anthony Alber
KU Sport Management and Operations, MS Graduate

“I am forever grateful to have been a part of the Keiser Sports Management program! Not only did I gain professional momentum to kickstart my career, I received help from professors that truly care about their students and made great friends along the way.”

Osmara Cailam
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate

“Choosing Keiser was instrumental because they offered small class sizes and the faculty provided one-on-one time with all of the students. Being in an online program, it is essential to have someone accessible to you and the faculty was always there when we needed them. I was also impressed at the structure, organization and curriculum for the program at Keiser.”

Ryan Bushey
Content and Media Production

“My instructors weren’t interested in just teaching. They were invested in every single student. They were invested in me. I’m proud to say I went to Keiser University, if for no other reason, because of my personal and professional development my instructors brought me.”

Jane Krolewski
Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner Graduate

“The Family Nurse Practitioner Program at Keiser University is an excellent program managed by a group of dynamic and dedicated professional educators. During my time at Keiser University, there was never a moment when I felt alone or lost. The support and guidance of my instructors were instrumental in accomplishing my professional goals and certification.”

Kiefer Suau
Software Engineering Graduate

“The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology.”

Jada Vidal
Culinary Arts Graduate

“Keiser was one of the best choices I made for culinary school but you must put in the time, show up, and listen to your chefs.“

Heather S
Keiser University Criminal Justice Graduate

Once I graduated, I found a job right out of college within my degree. I now proudly work for the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice.

Wayne W.
Keiser University Criminal Justice graduate

When I came to Keiser University, I had no idea what I was capable of doing. I knew if I made good grades and worked hard, it would look good on my resume. It would also show my girls how important an education was. So, I worked hard. KU prepared me for Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and the Florida State Correctional program…I have finally reached my goal of becoming a full-time deputy, with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.

Jason Liska
Keiser Graduate and Lake County Fire Fighter and Paramedic

Liska said he chose the Keiser University Fire Science program because of the professors’ real-life experiences in the field and the convenience of the one-class-at-a-time and one-class-per-month schedule. “You’ve got to find a way to balance things and Keiser was very beneficial in providing me that balance.”

Desiree James
Keiser University Diagnostic Medical Sonography Graduate

I loved that Keiser University focused on one class per month. I feel I gained a lot from this because there were no distractions from other subjects in the same period of time. I found the information for each subject was better retained this way. In addition, my professors were always available for one-on-one help which is nearly unheard of in a large university or state college.

Deanna Confessore
Deanna Confessore – Golf Management graduate – Keiser University

My time at Keiser gave me hands-on experience teaching golf and great mentors to look up to.

Jason Loomis
Executive Director at Great River Golf Club.

“Huge gratitude towards Keiser University, you know, I was a golf enthusiast and wanted to get into the game. And it was a perfect school that opened its doors to me, let me in, and showed me the ropes. And their guidance and education, and not to mention mentorship, even after I graduated, has really propelled me into the professional I am today.”

Samuel Fernandes
Animation and Game Design student – Keiser University

I’m Samuel Fernandes of Keiser University. I’m currently enrolled as a student under the animation and game design bachelors and I enjoy with my whole heart right now. I came to Keiser because it welcomes people and it was very warm and inviting. It allowed me to create the world I want. Here at Keiser, if you want to create world environments, if you want to enlist in characters, the game design program here is perfect.

How to Apply

  1. Submit your online application.
  2. Speak with an admissions advisor.
  3. Provide transcripts or transfer credits.
  4. Enroll and choose your start date.

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Speak to Your Advisor: 1-888-534-7379

Keiser University’s pre physician assistant program provides the rigorous scientific foundation and clinical preparation needed for admission to competitive PA schools. Through comprehensive coursework in organic chemistry, anatomy and physiology, and other required courses, students build the academic background physician assistant programs seek. Our advisors guide you through every step, from selecting your major courses to preparing application materials for PA school.

Apply Now

Accredited University

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), ensuring your education meets rigorous academic standards.

Flexible Learning Options

Study on-campus at our Florida location with one class at a time. Small class sizes create an environment where faculty know students by name and provide individualized support throughout the program.

Financial Aid

We’re here to help guide you through the financial aid process and provide assistance. Grants, scholarships, and financial aid available for students who qualify.

Top Questions About Earning a Pre-Physician Assistant Degree

What makes this program different from other health science degrees?

The Pre-Physician Assistant concentration specifically targets the coursework and preparation needed for PA school admission. While general biology or health science degrees provide broad preparation, our pre PA program focuses on the specific prerequisite courses, clinical knowledge, and application support that many PA programs require. This major prepares students specifically for physician assistant studies.

Can I apply to PA school with this degree?

This bachelor’s degree provides the scientific foundation and prerequisite courses needed to apply to physician assistant graduate programs. Students work with a pre health advisor to ensure they meet specific admission requirements for their target PA schools, including clinical hours and entrance exam preparation.

What prerequisite courses do PA schools require?

Many PA programs require anatomy and physiology, general chemistry with labs, organic chemistry with labs, microbiology, statistics, psychology, and medical terminology. The curriculum at Keiser University includes these required courses. Specific requirements vary by program, so applicants should research their target schools early in their academic journey, ideally during their junior year or even earlier in their college experience.

Do I need clinical experience to apply to PA school?

Most physician assistant programs require direct patient care hours before admission. Our advisors help students identify appropriate clinical experiences where they can observe or assist as healthcare providers examine patients, provide treatment, and deliver quality health care. Requirements typically range from several hundred to several thousand hours, depending on the program.

How competitive is admission to PA programs?

Physician assistant school remains highly competitive, with programs seeking qualified students and applicants who demonstrate strong academic performance, clinical experience, and commitment to the PA profession. Our program prepares students to submit competitive applications through rigorous coursework and comprehensive advising support.

What is the PA-CAT exam?

The PA-CAT (Physician Assistant College Admission Test) serves as an entrance exam that some physician assistant programs accept as an alternative to the GRE. This exam specifically measures abilities relevant to PA school success. Students should check whether their target programs accept the PA-CAT.

Can I work while completing this degree program?

Many students balance work and coursework, though the science-intensive curriculum requires significant study time. Organic chemistry with labs, general chemistry, anatomy and physiology, and other required courses demand dedicated focus. Students should discuss their individual circumstances with an academic advisor to plan their college experience realistically.

How long does it take to become a physician assistant after starting this program?

The bachelor’s degree takes approximately 35 months. After graduation, PA programs typically require two to three years of graduate study in physician assistant studies. The total timeline from starting the pre PA pathway to becoming a certified PA working under physician supervision can run approximately six to seven years.

What support do students receive for the application process?

Students work with a pre health advisor who provides guidance on graduate program clinical requirements, simulated interviews, personal statement and resume reviews. The college provides additional resources including workshops, networking events, and access to professionals in medicine and the PA profession. This support helps applicants submit strong applications to physician assistant programs.

Are there other career opportunities with this degree besides PA school?

The Biomedical Sciences degree prepares students for various biology-based careers and allied health graduate programs. Graduates can pursue opportunities in research laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, health departments, and other science-related positions while applying to PA programs or exploring alternative career paths in health professions.

Can I transfer credits from other institutions?

Yes, Keiser University accepts transfer credits for undergraduate and graduate-level programs. Our admissions team will work with you to review your transcripts and determine your transfer eligibility. Credits transfer based on several factors including accreditation and course equivalency. Learn more about credit transfer requirements and eligibility requirements.

Is financial aid available for the PA program?

Yes. Students in this program may qualify for grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs. Military veterans may also qualify for education benefits. Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all available options and create a plan that fits your situation. Learn more about Keiser University’s Financial Services.

When should I start this major if I want to be ready for PA school?

Students often begin their pre physician assistant pathway during their freshman year or sophomore year at the college, allowing sufficient time to complete all required courses, gain clinical experiences, and prepare application materials before applying during their senior year or shortly after graduation. Starting early provides the timeline needed to meet all PA schools requirements for admission.

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By clicking the "Submit" button, I authorize Keiser University to make or allow the placement of recurring marketing calls, emails, and texts to me at the phone number that I have provided, including through the use of automated technology or a prerecorded or artificial voice. I understand that I am not required to provide my phone number as a condition of purchasing any property, goods, or services. Privacy Policy