Master of Physician Assistant Studies
Admissions Requirements
Admission to the Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program is competitive. Applicants must meet all application requirements, minimum academic requirements, prerequisite coursework requirements, and technical standards to be considered for admission.
Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee an interview or admission. The program utilizes a holistic admissions process to identify applicants who demonstrate academic readiness, professional potential, and a commitment to the physician assistant profession.
Application Requirements
Applicants must complete and submit all required application materials through the Central Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA) by the published application deadline.
1. CASPA Application
- Applicants must submit a completed application through CASPA.
- CASPA application fees are determined by CASPA and may vary based on the number of programs selected. Fee waivers may be available through CASPA for qualified applicants.
2. SHP Supplemental Application
- Applicants must complete and submit the SHP Supplemental Application through CASPA.
- A non-refundable supplemental application fee is required. Fee waivers are not available for the supplemental application fee.
3. Official Transcripts
- Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended must be submitted directly to CASPA (Do not send to the school or program).
- Transcripts must:
- Include all completed and in-progress coursework.
- Be updated if additional coursework is completed after application submission.
- Be submitted from each institution attended, including institutions where transfer credit was originally earned. Transfer coursework listed on another institution's transcript does not replace the requirement to submit an official transcript from the original institution.
4. Letters of Recommendation
- Two letters of recommendation submitted by the recommender directly through CASPA.
- At least one recommendation must be provided by a healthcare professional who can evaluate the applicant's clinical abilities, work ethic, and readiness for professional healthcare education.
5. Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
- Official GRE scores must be submitted through CASPA.
- GRE scores must:
- Be reported directly from Educational Testing Service (ETS).
- Be no more than five years old at the time of application.
- Submission of GRE scores is required for all applicants (no exceptions). Waivers are not available.
- The program does not establish a minimum GRE score requirement; however, total scaled scores in verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing that place the applicant in the top 10th percentile is considered highly competitive.
6. Other Supporting Documents
- Applicants may be required to submit additional documentation to support information reported in their application or to verify eligibility for specific programs, experiences, or benefits. Examples include, but are not limited to, military service documentation (e.g., DD Form 214), veteran status verification, residency documentation, international credential evaluations, or other materials requested by the university, CASPA, or the program.
Application Completion
Application Program Status must be listed as “complete”, indicating application required materials (i.e., applications, payments, official transcripts, recommendations, GRE scores, other documents, etc.) have been completed, submitted, and received through CASPA by the published application “Orange Deadline”, to be considered eligible for consideration.
Applicants who previously applied to the program must submit a new application for each admissions cycle. Reapplication does not guarantee an interview or admission.
Minimum Academic Requirements
Applicants must meet the following minimum academic requirements:
1.Bachelor's Degree from a regionally accredited college or university completed prior to class start date if accepted.
2.Grade Point Average (GPA)
- Minimum Cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Minimum Overall Science GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
While applicants meeting the minimum GPA requirements are eligible for consideration, a GPA of 3.5 or higher is considered competitive. Applicants with GPAs between 3.0 and 3.49 are encouraged to demonstrate competitive academic readiness through other application strengths, including healthcare experience, direct patient care experience, leadership, service, or other indicators identified through the holistic review process.
3.Technical Standards
Applicants must be able to meet the program's published Technical Standards, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Technical Standards describe the physical, cognitive, communication, behavioral, and professional abilities necessary to successfully complete the curriculum and perform the essential functions of physician assistant education and practice.
4.Required Prerequisite Coursework
Applicants must complete all prerequisite coursework before the published CASPA application deadline.
Required prerequisite coursework includes:
COURSE CREDIT HOURS NOTES
Human Anatomy & Physiology I with Lab Human Anatomy (4 sch) with Lab + Human Physiology (4 sch) with Lab sequence are acceptable + 8 Human Anatomy & Physiology II with Lab
General Chemistry I & II with Lab 8
Organic Chemistry I with Lab 4
Microbiology with Lab 4
*Genetics 3 Online course is acceptable
*Statistics 3 any discipline-specific or on-line course is acceptable
All prerequisite coursework must:
- Be completed within ten years of matriculation.
- All required science courses must be in-person for science majors and include a laboratory component.
- Discipline-specific or online courses do not satisfy this requirement.
- Be completed with a grade of C or higher.
- Grades of C- do not satisfy prerequisite requirements.
- Credit earned through Advanced Placement (AP), College Level Examination Program (CLEP), or other examination-based credit may not be used to satisfy prerequisite requirements.
- Online coursework will not be accepted for required science prerequisite courses.
Check course equivalencies for Texas institutions using the Texas Common Course Numbering System (TCCNS).
The program reserves the right to determine course equivalency for prerequisite requirements.
International Applicants
Applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency through one of the following examinations by achieving the minimum score requirement:
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): 84
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS): 7.0
- Duolingo English Test: 115
English proficiency testing may be waived for international applicants who earn a bachelor's degree or higher from an institution located in a country where English is the official language. Please refer to the School of Health Professions section of the Catalog for additional information.
Applicants who attended institutions outside the United States must submit official transcripts and a course-by-course evaluation from a member agency of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES).
Admissions Process:
Following verification of eligibility requirements, applications undergo a comprehensive review by the Admissions Committee.
Selected applicants may be invited to participate in an in-person interview process that includes Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs) and other assessment activities designed to evaluate personal attributes, communication skills, professionalism, ethical decision-making, and readiness for physician assistant education.
Admission decisions are based on a holistic review of the applicant's academic preparation, experiences, personal attributes, and potential for success within the profession.
Information provided to university personnel outside the formal admissions process and CASPA system will not be considered during admissions review or selection process.
Holistic Review and Competitive Applicant Characteristics
The program utilizes a holistic admissions process that considers the entirety of an applicant's experiences and qualifications.
Factors that may strengthen an application include:
- Academic performance above minimum requirements
- Direct patient care and healthcare experience (paid or volunteer)
- Physician assistant shadowing
- Community service and volunteerism
- Leadership experience
- Research experience
- Teaching or mentoring activities
- Military service
- Affiliation with professional health shortage or medically underserved communities
- Awards, honors, scholarships, and other achievements
- Completion of Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) courses
Examples of healthcare and direct patient care experience in which the applicant has interacted directly with patients about their healthcare concerns and needs, may include but are not limited to:
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or Paramedic
- Medical Scribe
- Phlebotomist
- Pharmacy Technician
- Medical Assistant
- Patient Care Technician
- Certified Nursing Assistant
- Therapist or Therapy Assistant
- Healthcare Educator
Completion of any individual or combination of activity does not guarantee an interview or admission.
While these factors are not required, applicants are encouraged to demonstrate sustained engagement, meaningful patient interaction, and an informed understanding of the PA profession; preference may be given to applicants with higher levels of achievement and greater depth of experience.
Degree Requirements
The Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program is a 30-month, 126-credit graduate program that includes didactic instruction and supervised clinical practice experiences (SCPEs). The program begins in the summer semester and follows a continuous sequence of integrated didactic and clinical phases. The MPAS program is organized using a traditional semester-based academic structure.
The curriculum is designed to prepare students for entry-level clinical practice as physician assistants and includes the following:
- 14-month Didactic coursework (classroom, laboratory, and clinical preparation)
- 15-month Supervised Clinical Practice Experiences (SCPEs) across multiple disciplines
- Complete 10 required core SCPEs across key medical disciplines
- Complete 5 elective rotations, which may be selected in a designated area of interest
- A required scholarly/capstone project (1-month)
- A comprehensive summative evaluation administered during the final (4-months) phase of the program
Sample Plan of Study
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Summer | Credit Hours | |
| PHAS 5006 | Clinical Physiology | 4 |
| PHAS 5007 | Pathogenesis of Human Disease | 3 |
| PHAS 5011 | Principles of Ethics and Professionalism | 1 |
| PHAS 5044 | Clinical Anatomy | 5 |
| Fall | ||
| PHAS 6010 | Pharmacology 1 | 3 |
| PHAS 5001 | Clinical Skills 1 | 2 |
| PHAS 6131 | Technical Skills 1 | 0.5 |
| PHAS 6134 | Pulmonology | 2 |
| PHAS 6013 | Clinical Research and Evidence Based Medicine | 3 |
| PHAS 6133 | Cardiology | 3.5 |
| PHAS 6136 | Otolaryngology | 1.5 |
| PHAS 5003 | Behavioral Medicine | 1 |
| PHAS 6135 | Dermatology | 1 |
| PHAS 6009 | Laboratory Medicine 1 | 1.5 |
| Spring | ||
| PHAS 6138 | Neurology | 1.5 |
| PHAS 6004 | Preventative Medicine and Public Health | 3.5 |
| PHAS 6121 | Gastroenterology | 2 |
| PHAS 6122 | Orthopedics-Rheumatology | 2 |
| PHAS 5201 | Clinical Skills 2 | 2 |
| PHAS 6137 | Technical Skills 2 | 1 |
| PHAS 6014 | Pharmacology 2 | 3 |
| PHAS 6123 | Infectious Disease | 1 |
| PHAS 6120 | Endocrinology | 1.5 |
| PHAS 6140 | Laboratory Medicine 2 | 1.5 |
| Second Year | ||
| Summer | ||
| PHAS 5000 | Physician Assistant Policy and Practice | 2 |
| PHAS 5301 | Clinical Skills 3 | 2 |
| PHAS 6132 | Technical Skills 3 | 1 |
| PHAS 6130 | Renal-Genitourinary | 2 |
| PHAS 6124 | Women's Health | 1.5 |
| PHAS 6128 | Pediatrics | 1 |
| PHAS 6127 | Gerontology | 1 |
| PHAS 6126 | General Surgery | 1.5 |
| PHAS 6125 | Emergency Medicine | 1.5 |
| EMSP 6135 | Advanced Cardiac Life Support | 1 |
| PHAS 6129 | Hematology-Oncology | 0.5 |
| Fall | ||
| PHAS 6101 | Internal Medicine Supervised Clinical Practice Experience | 4 |
| PHAS 6102 | Family Medicine Supervised Clinical Practice Experience | 4 |
| PHAS 6103 | Internal/Family Medicine Supervised Clinical Practice Experience | 4 |
| PHAS 6104 | Pediatrics Supervised Clinical Practice Experience 4 | 4 |
| Spring | ||
| PHAS 6105 | Emergency Medicine Supervised Clinical Practice Experience | 4 |
| PHAS 6106 | Inpatient Medicine Supervised Clinical Practice Experience | 4 |
| PHAS 6107 | Women's Health Supervised Clinical Practice Experience | 4 |
| PHAS 6108 | Surgery Supervised Clinical Practice Experience | 4 |
| Third Year | ||
| Summer | ||
| PHAS 6109 | Behavioral Medicine Supervised Clinical Practice Experience | 4 |
| PHAS 6110 | Supervised Clinical Research Experience | 4 |
| PHAS 6111 | Elective 1 Supervised Clinical Practice Experience | 4 |
| Fall | ||
| PHAS 6112 | Elective 2 Supervised Clinical Practice Experience | 4 |
| PHAS 6113 | Elective 3 Supervised Clinical Practice Experience | 4 |
| PHAS 6114 | Elective 4 Supervised Clinical Practice Experience | 4 |
| PHAS 6115 | Elective 5 Supervised Clinical Practice Experience | 4 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 126.0 | |
Objectives/Program Outcomes
Mission Statement
The mission of the Department of Physician Assistant Studies is to educate and prepare compassionate, competent, and adaptable physician assistants who provide high-quality, patient-centered care across a broad range of clinical settings. Through excellence in education, clinical training, service, and research, the program seeks to improve health outcomes, advance evidence-based practice, and serve the health care needs of San Antonio, South Texas, and beyond.
Vision Statement
The Department of Physician Assistant Studies will be recognized as a high-quality, student-centered PA program that graduates practice-ready clinicians, meaningfully contributes to health professions education and scholarship, serves as a trusted partner and leader in improving community health, and advances innovation and interprofessional collaboration in healthcare and education.
Program Goals
Goal 1: Educational Excellence and Student Success
Outcome Measure
- Maintain a first-time PANCE pass rate at or above the national average for each graduating cohort measured annually using NCCPA reports.
Goal 2: Clinical Preparedness and Workforce Readiness
Outcome Measure
- Maintain a graduate employment rate of at least 90 percent within six months of graduation, measured through alumni surveys.
Goal 3: Community Engagement and Service
Outcome Measure
- Maintain at least one ongoing community-based service or outreach activity embedded within the curriculum, documented through course syllabi and program records, and reviewed annually.
Goal 4: Scholarship and Professional Contribution
Outcome Measure
- Ensure that all students complete a scholarly or evidence-based project prior to graduation, with at least 50% addressing areas aligned with institutional priorities, including healthcare improvement, community impact, education, or research and innovation, as measured by program-defined criteria
The Department of Physician Assistant Studies’ mission, vision, and goals align with the mission and vision of The University of Texas at San Antonio Health Science Center and the School of Health Professions. More detailed information can be found on the Master of Physician Assistant Studies program webpage and are reviewed annually to ensure alignment with institutional priorities and accreditation standards.
Program Competencies / Learning Outcomes
The Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program prepares graduates to demonstrate the knowledge, clinical skills, professional behaviors, and competencies required for entry-level physician assistant practice. Program competency expectations are aligned with the program mission, goals, and ARC-PA accreditation standards and are available on the Master of Physician Assistant Studies program webpage.
Program Policies and Information
The Department of Physician Assistant Studies maintains policies designed to promote student success while ensuring compliance with academic, professional, institutional, and accreditation standards.
Detailed policies and procedures are published in the Physician Assistant Student Handbook and the School of Health Professions Catalog. Students are responsible for understanding and complying with all program, school, and university policies.
Instructional Delivery Model
The MPAS curriculum is organized using a systems-based approach that integrates biomedical sciences, clinical medicine, clinical skills, professional development, and supervised clinical practice experiences.
Educational methods include:
- Classroom instruction
- Case-based learning
- Team-based learning
- Clinical and technical skills laboratories
- Simulation activities
- Research and scholarly activities
- Interprofessional education
- Supervised clinical practice experiences (SCPEs)
The program is delivered primarily through in-person instruction with selected hybrid components that may include synchronous and asynchronous learning activities. Didactic instruction is provided in real time across both campuses through technology-enhanced educational delivery to ensure equitable access to faculty, educational resources, and learning opportunities.
The curriculum emphasizes active participation, critical thinking, professional development, and self-directed learning. Students are expected to take responsibility for mastering course content, preparing for clinical experiences, and engaging in lifelong learning practices essential to physician assistant practice.
Campus Preference and Assignment
The MPAS program is offered at two instructional locations:
- UT San Antonio Health Science Center (main campus)
- UT Education and Research Center at Laredo (regional campus)
Applicants are asked to indicate a campus preference in CASPA by selecting:
- San Antonio
- Laredo
- No Preference
Campus preference is considered during the admissions process; however, final campus assignment is determined by the program based on applicant qualifications, institutional priorities, available capacity, and programmatic needs. Requests for reassignment after acceptance are not guaranteed and are subject to program approval.
Preference for the Laredo campus may be given to qualified applicants with demonstrated ties to Laredo, Webb County, South Texas, or medically underserved communities, as well as applicants who identify Laredo as their preferred campus location.
Students admitted to either location complete the same curriculum, meet the same academic standards, and are awarded the same degree.
Advanced Placement and Transfer Credit
The program does not grant advanced placement for academic work completed prior to matriculation or for any type of professional or healthcare experience. Prerequisite coursework may not be applied toward or substituted for courses within the Physician Assistant curriculum.
Transfer of Credit:
Transfer credit from other Physician Assistant programs is not accepted. Prior coursework completed in another PA program will not be applied toward any program requirements.
Experiential Learning:
Credit for experiential learning is not awarded for any didactic or clinical component of the curriculum, including supervised clinical practice experiences.
Credit by Examination:
Credit by examination is not permitted for any course within the program.
Information Sessions
Prospective applicants are encouraged to attend a program information session typically offered during the spring semester. Please refer to the program website for specific dates and registration information or contact
the Health Professions Office of Admissions and Special Programs at (866) 802-6288 (toll-free) or (210) 567-6220 for additional information on preparing for a future career as a Physician Assistant.
Grading Policy
The Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program utilizes a combination of letter grades and pass/fail grading, as determined by individual course requirements.
Grade Percentage Description
A 90-100 Excellent
B 80-89 Meets Expected Graduate-Level Competency
C 70-79 Below Expected Graduate-Level Competency
F Below 70 Failure
P Pass Successful Completion
I Incomplete Course Requirement Not Yet Completed
A minimum grade of "C" is required to pass a course; however, the program considers performance at the "B" level or higher to reflect expected graduate-level competency.
A grade below 70 percent is considered failing. Grades are not rounded or curved. Pass/Fail grades are not calculated in the cumulative grade point average (GPA).
An Incomplete "I" may be assigned when course requirements cannot be completed within the designated timeframe due to approved circumstances. Incomplete grades must be resolved according to program and university policies.
Students must meet all course, clinical, and progression requirements to remain in good academic standing and advance through the curriculum. Detailed grading, assessment, remediation, and progression policies are published in the Physician Assistant Student Handbook.
Academic Standing
The Department of Physician Assistant Studies monitors student academic performance, professional conduct, and progression throughout the curriculum. Students are classified according to their academic and professional standing as described below.
Good Academic and Professional Standing
A student is considered to be in good academic and professional standing when all of the following conditions are met:
- Maintains a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher.
- Earns passing grades in all courses and clinical experiences.
- Demonstrates satisfactory academic performance and professional behavior.
- Successfully achieves required program competencies, Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs), and progression milestones.
- Remains in compliance with all program, school, and university policies.
Students in good standing are eligible to progress through the curriculum and participate in program activities without restriction.
Student Progress Committee
The Student Progress Committee reviews matters related to student academic performance, professional conduct, clinical performance, and progression.
Following review, the committee may recommend academic actions including:
- Remediation
- Academic probation
- Leave of absence
- Deceleration
- Dismissal
Recommendations are made in accordance with program policies and university procedures.
Academic Concern
A student may be identified as having an academic concern when academic performance indicates potential risk for future difficulty in meeting program expectations. Examples may include performance below expected graduate-level competency, repeated assessment deficiencies, or emerging patterns of academic difficulty.
Academic concerns are intended to provide early identification and support and may result in increased faculty advising, academic monitoring, or targeted remediation. Academic concern status does not necessarily restrict progression but serves as an opportunity to address deficiencies before they affect academic standing.
Academic Probation
A student may be placed on academic probation when academic performance, professional conduct, or progression requirements fall below program standards. Circumstances that may result in academic probation include, but are not limited to:
- A cumulative GPA below 2.75.
- Failure to meet academic progression requirements.
- Failure to successfully complete required remediation.
- Significant concerns related to professional conduct or behavior.
Students placed on academic probation may be required to complete specific conditions for continued enrollment and progression. Failure to satisfy probationary requirements may result in additional academic action, including review by the Student Progress Committee.
Detailed procedures regarding academic standing, remediation, probation, progression, and Student Progress Committee review are published in the Physician Assistant Student Handbook.
Remediation
Remediation is a faculty-directed individualized process intended to support student success by addressing identified academic, clinical, or professional performance deficiencies. Successful completion of assigned remediation activities and assessments within the designated time may be required for continued progression or graduation.
Deceleration
Deceleration is a temporary interruption in a student's progression through the curriculum due to academic, professional, or other circumstances that affect successful completion of program requirements. Students approved for deceleration are assigned to a subsequent cohort and must satisfy all conditions established by the program before returning.
Leave of Absence
A leave of absence (LOA) is an approved temporary interruption in enrollment for personal, medical, military, or other extenuating circumstances. Approved leaves are granted in accordance with program and university policies and may not exceed 12 months. Students must meet all conditions for reentry established by the program.
Withdrawal
Withdrawal is a voluntary separation from the program initiated by the student. Students who withdraw must comply with university withdrawal procedures and must petition for readmission if they wish to return to the program.
Dismissal
Dismissal is the involuntary separation of a student from the program due to failure to meet academic, clinical, professional, or conduct standards. Dismissal decisions are made in accordance with program and university policies.
Readmission
Students who withdraw or are dismissed from the program may petition for readmission. Readmission is not guaranteed and is subject to program and university policies, available space, and the student's ability to meet current program requirements.
Appeals and Grievances
The program maintains formal processes for student appeals and grievances.
Appeals provide students with an opportunity to request review of academic or disciplinary decisions.
Grievances provide students with a mechanism to address concerns related to unfair treatment, discrimination, harassment, or the learning environment.
Students are encouraged to resolve concerns at the lowest appropriate level whenever possible and may utilize institutional procedures when resolution cannot be achieved informally.
Detailed policies and procedures for each of these categories are available in the University of Texas at San Antonio Health Science Center, School of Health Professions Catalog
Additional Requirements Upon Matriculation
Prior to enrollment, admitted students must complete all program and university matriculation requirements, including:
- Completion of the Pre-Matriculation Success Program
- A self-paced, online program designed to strengthen foundational knowledge and support student success in the rigorous physician assistant curriculum. The program carries no academic credit and is provided at no cost to the student.
- Criminal background checks and Drug screening
- Students must successfully complete a criminal background check prior to matriculation and may be required to complete additional background checks, drug screenings, or other clinical clearance requirements during enrollment as required by clinical affiliates.
- A criminal history or failure to meet clinical site requirements may affect a student's ability to matriculate, participate in clinical experiences, progress in the program, obtain certification, or become licensed as a physician assistant. Acceptance into the program does not guarantee eligibility for clinical training, certification, credentialing, or licensure.
- Students are responsible for all costs associated with required background checks and drug screenings.
Immunization, Health Screening, and Insurance Requirements
Students must comply with all immunization, health screening, and occupational health requirements established by UT San Antonio Health Science Center, affiliated clinical sites, and current CDC recommendations for healthcare professionals and includes, but is not limited to:
- Immunization compliance
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine or immunity by titer
- Hepatitis B vaccine series or immunity by titer
- Varicella vaccine series or immunity by titer
- Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap) within the last 10 years
- Tuberculosis screening
- Meningococcal vaccination (as applicable)
- Influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations are strongly encouraged and may be required annually or may vary by certain clinical training sites
Required documentation must be submitted through the university's designated compliance system and maintained throughout enrollment.
All students are required to maintain major medical health insurance while enrolled, in accordance with UT System Board of Regents requirements.
Failure to satisfy required health, safety, or clinical site-specific participation requirements may affect enrollment, progression, clinical placement eligibility or restrict participation, or delay graduation.
Program faculty, including the Program Director, Medical Director, and Principal Faculty, do not serve as healthcare providers for enrolled students except in emergency situations.
Student Responsibilities
Students are responsible for:
- Understanding and complying with all published policies
- Maintaining professional conduct
- Participating actively in all educational activities
- Completing all required coursework and clinical experiences
- Students must comply with all clinical site onboarding, credentialing, training, and safety requirements necessary to participate in supervised clinical practice experiences (SCPEs). Requirements may vary by clinical site and are subject to change.
- Monitoring official university communications
- Maintaining required certifications and compliance documentation
- Engaging in self-directed learning and professional development
- It the student's responsibility to file an Application for Degree/Certificate form in the Registrar’s Office in the semester prior to anticipated graduation, or at registration for the final year. Notices are sent from the Registrar’s Office
- Honor all professional and financial obligations incurred upon enrollment, throughout the program, and upon graduation. Failure to meet any requirement may result in delayed graduation.
Clinical Placement
Clinical experiences provide exposure to:
- Preventive care
- Acute care
- Chronic disease management
- Women's health
- Pediatric care
- Behavioral health
- Surgical care
- Emergency medicine
- Inpatient and outpatient practice
- Interprofessional healthcare delivery
Students are expected to function at the level of a physician assistant student and must be clearly identified as such in all clinical settings.
All clinical sites and preceptors are selected, evaluated, and approved by the program.
Students are not required or permitted to independently arrange clinical rotations. Students may recommend potential clinical sites or preceptors for consideration; however, all placement decisions remain at the discretion of the program.
Clinical rotations may occur throughout Texas and other approved locations. Students must be prepared to travel and are responsible for transportation, housing, and living expenses associated with clinical placements.
Interprofessional Education and Community Engagement
The curriculum includes opportunities for interprofessional education and community engagement designed to promote collaborative practice, cultural humility, service, and understanding of healthcare delivery across diverse populations.
Students may participate in activities involving learners and professionals from multiple healthcare disciplines, as well as community-based educational and service initiatives.
International Educational Opportunities
The School of Health Professions may offer optional international educational experiences that support interprofessional learning, cultural awareness, and global health perspectives. Participation is voluntary and not required for completion of the MPAS program.
Students who elect to participate must comply with all university policies and applicable health, safety, and travel requirements associated with the destination.
Academic Progression
Student progression is based upon satisfactory academic performance, professional conduct, and attainment of required competencies.
To progress through the curriculum, students must:
- Earn a minimum grade of C or Pass in all courses
- Maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75
- Demonstrate satisfactory professional behaviors
- Successfully achieve required competency-based assessments, Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs), and program milestones
- Meet all didactic or clinical phase-specific requirements established by the program
Students who fail to meet progression requirements may be subject to remediation or other academic actions as outlined in Program Policies.
Graduation Requirements
To qualify for graduation, students must:
- Successfully complete all required coursework and clinical experiences
- Meet all program progression requirements
- Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75
- Successfully complete the scholarly/capstone project
- Successfully complete and pass all components of the Summative Evaluation
- Satisfy all university graduation requirements
- Fulfill all financial and administrative obligations to the university
Failure to meet any graduation requirement within 30 months, provided there has been no breaks in enrollment, may result in delayed graduation. Extensions may be granted only under approved program policies.
Degree and Certification
Students who successfully complete all graduation requirements are awarded the Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) degree by The University of Texas at San Antonio.
Graduates are eligible to sit for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA).
Successful completion of the program does not guarantee certification, employment, credentialing, or licensure.
Professional Licensure Considerations
Physician assistant licensure is regulated by individual state licensing authorities.
Eligibility for licensure is determined solely by the applicable licensing board and may be influenced by academic performance, professional conduct, criminal history, disciplinary actions, or other factors established as reportable by the licensing authority.
Students are responsible for understanding the licensure requirements of the jurisdiction in which they intend to practice.
Student Employment and Participation
Physician assistant students are not required to work for the program and will not substitute for instructional faculty, clinical staff, or administrative personnel.
Due to the rigorous nature of the curriculum, outside employment is strongly discouraged and should not interfere with academic or clinical responsibilities.
*More information on all policies on this webpage can be found in the PA Student Handbook that will be provided to accepted students prior to matriculation and thoroughly reviewed with them at orientation.
Questions on any of these policies should be directed to: pastudies@uthscsa.edu
Courses
PHAS 5000. Physician Assistant Policy and Practice. 2 Credit Hours.
This course will provide the student with an overview of the assistant physician profession. The course will provide the student with an opportunity to develop an understanding of the profession to include history, social and policy issues, medical ethics, liability, educational philosophy, certification/licensure requirements, and professional concepts/issues, including a team approach to health care. Discussion will include intellectual honesty, academic and professional conduct.
PHAS 5001. Clinical Skills 1. 2 Credit Hours.
This course provides the student with an opportunity to develop a theoretical and clinical basis for assessment of the patient. The process, in which a physician assistant utilizes a comprehensive physical, psychosocial, and cultural assessment across the lifespan to gather specific data relevant to common health problems, is demonstrated. Faculty will facilitate laboratory and clinical experiences that will focus on assessment of patients and presentation of findings in a variety of settings.
PHAS 5003. Behavioral Medicine. 1 Credit Hour.
This course provides the student with an opportunity to develop an understanding of human behavior by providing an overview of major behavioral disease processes and differentiation criteria to include disease presentation, physical examination findings, laboratory testing, and therapeutic approaches. Open for Cross Enrollment on Space Available Basis.
PHAS 5006. Clinical Physiology. 4 Credit Hours.
This course is designed to provide students in health professions discipline with the fundamentals of normal human physiology. The course includes concepts from cellular to system level. Topics include cellular, respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive, renal, male and female reproductive, musculoskeletal, nervous, and endocrine systems with integration of these physiologic concepts to pathologic disease processes. The course includes classroom lecture, case studies and student presentations.
PHAS 5007. Pathogenesis of Human Disease. 3 Credit Hours.
This course covers the basic principles of pathology providing the opportunity for the understanding of human disease processes. Course content includes discussion of general disease processes such as cellular degeneration, inflammation, tissue repair, chemical and physical injury, developmental disorders and neoplasia and a thorough examination of the principal diseases of the major tissues and organ systems. Upon completion of the course the student will have had the opportunity to acquire foundation knowledge of the concepts of pathophysiology applicable and required for clinical diagnosis of human diseases. Open for Cross Enrollment on Space Available Basis.
PHAS 5011. Principles of Ethics and Professionalism. 1 Credit Hour.
A major component of becoming a critical thinker involves understanding of professional behavior and ethical decision making that may affect others, particularly patients and their families. This course will encourage discussion and analysis of issues that involve professional behavior and ethical conflicts to help PA students prepare for approaching ethical dilemmas. In addition, the course will address ethical issues relating to research.
PHAS 5044. Clinical Anatomy. 5 Credit Hours.
This course uses lecture and laboratory experience to learn gross morphology of the human body including: structural relationships, anatomical variations and radiological correlations. The course will emphasize the application of this anatomical knowledge to clinical practice. Students will conduct a complete cadaver gross dissection in order to reveal the anatomical basis for performing clinical procedures, conduct a physical exam, and assess structures that may be injured or diseased based on a patient presentation. Students are expected to become skilled at identification of anatomical structures, and are also expected to become proficient at recognition of structural arrangements and structural relationships. Students have the opportunity to further their knowledge of anatomy by using computer-assisted technology, which is available online. Course Fees: Admin Fee/Materials: $831 Lab/Gross Anatomy: $30.
PHAS 5201. Clinical Skills 2. 2 Credit Hours.
This course is a continuation of Clinical Skills 1, and provides the student with additional opportunities to develop a theoretical and clinical basis for assessment of the patient. The process, in which a physician assistant utilizes a comprehensive physical, psychosocial, and cultural assessment across the lifespan to gather specific data relevant to common health problems, is demonstrated. Faculty will facilitate laboratory and clinical experiences that will focus on assessment of patients and presentation of findings in a variety of settings. Prerequisites: PHAS 5001.
PHAS 5301. Clinical Skills 3. 2 Credit Hours.
This course is a continuation of Clinical Skills 2, and provides the student with additional opportunities to develop a theoretical and clinical basis for assessment of the patient. The process, in which a physician assistant utilizes a comprehensive physical, psychosocial, and cultural assessment across the lifespan to gather specific data relevant to common health problems, is demonstrated. Faculty will facilitate laboratory and clinical experiences that will focus on assessment of patients and presentation of findings in a variety of settings. Prerequisites: PHAS 5201.
PHAS 6004. Preventative Medicine and Public Health. 3.5 Credit Hours.
The student will have an opportunity to develop an understanding and knowledge of epidemiology and preventive medicine across a number of topics. An introduction to public health, with an emphasis on needs assessment and project development, is a major component of this course. Open for Cross Enrollment on Space Available Basis.
PHAS 6010. Pharmacology 1. 3 Credit Hours.
The student will have an opportunity to develop an understanding and knowledge of the pharmacological basis of therapeutics with special emphasis on the biochemical and physiological functions in disease. Majors areas covered include drugs active in the cardiovascular, autonomic, and central nervous systems. General principles of drug action and specific coverage of drugs used in the treatment of bacterial, viral, and parasitic diseases are provided.
PHAS 6013. Clinical Research and Evidence Based Medicine. 3 Credit Hours.
This course is a general introduction to research design, statistical reasoning, and interpretation of medical/scientific literature. Topics include scientific method, theory, development of research questions, issues of measurement, models of experimental and non-experimental designs, and an overview of parametric and non-parametric statistical techniques. All topics will be in reference to understanding the literature and to evidence for practice decisions. The learner will have an opportunity to critically analyze medical and scientific literature/ research and participate in a research project headed by faculty mentors.
PHAS 6014. Pharmacology 2. 3 Credit Hours.
A continuation of Pharmacology 1, the student will have an opportunity to develop an understanding and knowledge of the actions and therapeutic uses of drugs. The topics include principles of pharmacology and pharmacokinetics. Topics will center on drug action, autonomic and cardiovascular pharmacology, neuropharmacology, endocrine pharmacology, GI and respiratory pharmacology, and an introduction to chemotherapy and toxicology. Special topics will include basics in prescription writing.
PHAS 6101. Internal Medicine Supervised Clinical Practice Experience. 4 Credit Hours.
This clinical rotation is part of a series of supervised clinical practice (SCP) opportunities for students who have completed the didactic phase of the Physician Assistant curriculum. SCP experiences enable students to meet program expectations, and acquire the competencies needed for entry level clinical PA practice. This outpatient primary care rotation will include preventive, acute and chronic patient encounters that include women's health and care across the life span.
PHAS 6102. Family Medicine Supervised Clinical Practice Experience. 4 Credit Hours.
This clinical rotation is part of a series of supervised clinical practice (SPC) opportunities for students who have completed the didactic phase of the Physician Assistant curriculum. SCP experiences enable students to meet program expectations, and acquire the competencies needed for entry level clinical PA practice. This outpatient primary care rotation will include preventive, acute and chronic patient encounters that include women's health and care across the life span.
PHAS 6103. Internal/Family Medicine Supervised Clinical Practice Experience. 4 Credit Hours.
This clinical rotation course is part of a series of supervised clinical practice (SPC) opportunities for students who have completed the didactic phase of the Physician Assistant curriculum. SCP experiences enable students to meet program expectations and acquire the competencies needed for entry level clinical PA practice. This outpatient primary care rotation will include preventive, acute and chronic patient encounters that include women's health and care across the life span.
PHAS 6104. Pediatrics Supervised Clinical Practice Experience 4. 4 Credit Hours.
This clinical rotation is part of a series of supervised clinical practice (SPC) opportunities for students who have completed the didactic phase of the Physician Assistant curriculum. SCP experiences enable students to meet program expectations and acquire the competencies needed for entry-level clinical PA practice. Students will encounter the types of patients essential to preparing them for entry into practice. The outpatient pediatric rotation will include preventive, acute and chronic patient encounters.
PHAS 6105. Emergency Medicine Supervised Clinical Practice Experience. 4 Credit Hours.
This clinical rotation course is part of a series of supervised clinical practice (SPC) opportunities for students who have completed the didactic phase of the Physician Assistant curriculum. SPC experiences enable students to meet program expectations, and acquire the competencies needed for entry-level clinical PA practice. Students will encounter the types of patients essential to preparing them for entry into practice. This emergency medical rotation will include acute and emergent patient encounters that include women's health and care across the life span.
PHAS 6106. Inpatient Medicine Supervised Clinical Practice Experience. 4 Credit Hours.
This clinical rotation course is part of a series of supervised clinical practice experience (SCPE) opportunities for students who have completed the didactic phase of the Physician Assistant curriculum. SCPEs enable students to meet program expectations, and acquire the competencies needed for entry-level clinical PA practice. This inpatient rotation will include preventative, acute and emergent patient encounters that include pre- and post- surgical care, women's health and care across the life span.
PHAS 6107. Women's Health Supervised Clinical Practice Experience. 4 Credit Hours.
This clinical rotation is part of a series of supervised clinical practice experience (SCPE) opportunities for students who have completed the didactic phase of the Physician Assistant curriculum. SCPEs enable students to meet program expectations and acquire the competencies needed for entry-level clinical PA practice. This women's health rotation will include preventative, acute, chronic and emergent patient encounters across the life span.
PHAS 6108. Surgery Supervised Clinical Practice Experience. 4 Credit Hours.
This clinical rotation is part of a series of supervised clinical practice experience (SCPE) opportunities for students who have completed the didactic phase of the Physician Assistant curriculum. SCPEs enable students to meet program expectations and acquire the competencies needed for entry-level clinical PA practice. This surgical rotation will include acute, chronic, and emergent patient encounters involving pre-surgical, post-surgical, and intra-surgical care.
PHAS 6109. Behavioral Medicine Supervised Clinical Practice Experience. 4 Credit Hours.
This clinical rotation is part of a series of supervised clinical practice experience (SCPE) opportunities for students who have completed the didactic phase of the Physician Assistant curriculum. SCPEs enable students to meet program expectations, and acquire the competencies needed for entry-level clinical PA practice. This psychiatry rotation will include preventative, acute, chronic, and emergent patient encounters that include women's health and care across the life span.
PHAS 6009. Laboratory Medicine 1. 1.5 Credit Hour.
This course is offered to students in the Physician Assistant Studies Program at UT Health San Antonio. The course is designed to provide the student with the opportunity to gain information on the profession of clinical laboratory science including history and job characteristics. Relationships between abnormal physiology and laboratory testing will be emphasized. Basic lab and math statistics will be taught. Part of the course is Web-based.
PHAS 6110. Supervised Clinical Research Experience. 4 Credit Hours.
This clinical phase rotation course is a supervised research month opportunity for students who have completed the didactic phase of the Physician Assistant curriculum. This course is designed to provide practical application of skills learned during PHAS 6013 Scientific Inquiry. During this rotation, students will have the opportunity to explore research design, statistical reasoning, and interpretation of medical/scientific literature. This rotation will enhance the students' understanding and interpretation of medical literature and the application of evidence for practice decisions. The learner will have an opportunity to critically analyze medical and scientific literature/research and demonstrate the results of their team's research project headed by faculty mentors.
PHAS 6111. Elective 1 Supervised Clinical Practice Experience. 4 Credit Hours.
This clinical rotation course is part of a series of supervised clinical practice experience (SCPE) opportunities for students who have completed the didactic phase of the Physician Assistant curriculum. SCPEs enable students to meet program expectations, and acquire the competencies needed for entry-level clinical PA practice. This elective rotation can include preventative, acute, chronic, and emergent patient encounters that include surgical care, women's health and care across the life span.
PHAS 6112. Elective 2 Supervised Clinical Practice Experience. 4 Credit Hours.
This clinical rotation is part of a series of supervised clinical practice experience (SCPE) opportunities for students who have completed the didactic phase of the Physician Assistant curriculum. SCPEs enable students to meet program expectations, and acquire the competencies needed for entry-level clinical PA practice. This elective rotation can include preventative, acute, chronic, and emergent patient encounters that include surgical care, women's health and care across the life span.
PHAS 6113. Elective 3 Supervised Clinical Practice Experience. 4 Credit Hours.
This clinical rotation is part of a series of supervised clinical practice experience (SCPE) opportunities for students who have completed the didactic phase of the Physician Assistant curriculum. SCPEs enable students to meet program expectations, and acquire the competencies needed for entry-level clinical PA practice. This elective rotation can include preventative, acute, chronic, and emergent patient encounters that include surgical care, women's health and care across the life span.
PHAS 6114. Elective 4 Supervised Clinical Practice Experience. 4 Credit Hours.
This clinical rotation is part of a series of supervised clinical practice experience (SCPE) opportunities for students who have completed the didactic phase of the Physician Assistant curriculum. SCPEs enable students to meet program expectations, and acquire the competencies needed for entry-level clinical PA practice. This elective rotation can include preventative, acute, chronic, and emergent patient encounters that include surgical care, women's health and care across the life span.
PHAS 6115. Elective 5 Supervised Clinical Practice Experience. 4 Credit Hours.
This clinical rotation is part of a series of supervised clinical practice experience (SCPE) opportunities for students who have completed the didactic phase of the Physician Assistant curriculum. SCPEs enable students to meet program expectations, and acquire the competencies needed for entry-level clinical PA practice. This elective rotation can include preventative, acute, chronic, and emergent patient encounters that include surgical care, women's health and care across the life span.
PHAS 6120. Endocrinology. 1.5 Credit Hour.
This course provides students with aspects of medical care related to the endocrine system. It will provide students with an opportunity to develop an understanding of human disease states. Instruction will include recognition of disease state through data collection, assessment, management, patient education, and disease prevention. Instruction in health disparities and diverse populations is included.
PHAS 6121. Gastroenterology. 2 Credit Hours.
This course provides students with aspects of medical care related to the gastroenterology system. It will provide students with an opportunity to develop an understanding of human disease states. Instruction will include recognition of disease state through data collection, assessment, management, patient education, and disease prevention. Instruction in health disparities and diverse populations is included.
PHAS 6122. Orthopedics-Rheumatology. 2 Credit Hours.
This course provides students with aspects of medical care related to the musculoskeletal system. It will provide students with an opportunity to develop an understanding of human disease states. Instruction will include recognition of disease state through data collection, assessment, management, patient education, and disease prevention. Instruction in health disparities and diverse populations is included.
PHAS 6123. Infectious Disease. 1 Credit Hour.
This course provides students with aspects of medical care related to infectious diseases. It will provide students with an opportunity to develop an understanding of human disease states. Instruction will include recognition of disease state through data collection, assessment, management, patient education, and disease prevention. Instruction in health disparities and diverse populations is included.
PHAS 6124. Women's Health. 1.5 Credit Hour.
This course provides students with aspects of medical care related to the women's health. It will provide students with an opportunity to develop an understanding of human disease states. Instruction will include recognition of disease state through data collection, assessment, management, patient education, and disease prevention. Instruction in health disparities and diverse populations is included.
PHAS 6125. Emergency Medicine. 1.5 Credit Hour.
This provides students with the practical aspects of assessment, diagnosis, and management of many commonly encountered medical and surgical emergencies, the basis to identify when a patient's medical situation represents a medical emergency, the medical approaches a patient in an Emergency Department, and how to create emergent differential diagnoses. The materials will include the initial assessment of the medical and trauma patient, review of signs and symptoms and accompanying physical findings, methods of diagnosis, and treatment of a spectrum of emergent illnesses and injuries. The course will be organized by chief complaint and will cover the pertinent diseases processes/injuries to aid in the creation of learners' differential diagnoses.
PHAS 6126. General Surgery. 1.5 Credit Hour.
This didactic phase course covers various topics concerning general surgical care of patients. Emphasis is given to presenting signs and symptoms, laboratory and imaging interpretation and the diagnosis and treatment of selected surgical disorders.
PHAS 6127. Gerontology. 1 Credit Hour.
This course provides students with all aspects of medical care based on an organ system approach. It will provide students with an opportunity to develop an understanding of human disease states. Instruction will include recognition of disease state through data collection, assessment, management, patient education, and disease prevention. Health disparities will be included. The organ systems will be covered as they relate to specific geriatric patients: cardiovascular, dermatologic, otorhinolaryngology, endocrine, gastrointestinal/nutritional, hematologic, musculoskeletal, infectious disease, neurologic, psychiatric, pulmonary, and genitourinary/reproductive.
PHAS 6128. Pediatrics. 1 Credit Hour.
This course provides students with all aspects of pediatric medical care based on an organ system approach. It will provide students with an opportunity to develop an understanding of common pediatric disease states. Instruction will include recognition of disease state through data collection, assessment, management, patient education, and disease prevention. Health disparities will be included. Special emphasis is placed on childhood growth and development focusing on expected developmental milestones.
PHAS 6129. Hematology-Oncology. 0.5 Credit Hours.
This course provides students with aspects of medical care related to hematology and oncology. It will provide students with an opportunity to develop an understanding of human disease states. Instruction will include recognition of disease state through data collection, assessment, management, patient education, and disease prevention. Instruction in health disparities and diverse populations is included.
PHAS 6130. Renal-Genitourinary. 2 Credit Hours.
This course provides students with aspects of medical care related to the renal and genitourinary systems. It will provide students with an opportunity to develop an understanding of human disease states. Instruction will include recognition of disease state through data collection, assessment, management, patient education, and disease prevention. Instruction in health disparities and diverse populations is included.
PHAS 6131. Technical Skills 1. 0.5 Credit Hours.
This course provides the student with knowledge and skills necessary to perform selected clinical procedures using accepted sterile techniques. The student will have the opportunity to demonstrate an understanding of the indications, contraindications, rationale and potential complications with additional emphasis on patient preparation, required materials, asceptic technique, procedure steps, wound care, patient safety and education. Faculty will facilitate lecture and laboratory experience that will focus on demonstration and performance based training. Activities will range from observation to participation in procedure skills utilized during the clinical phase of their studies.
PHAS 6132. Technical Skills 3. 1 Credit Hour.
This course is a continuation of Technical Skills 2, and provides the student with additional knowledge and skills necessary to perform selected clinical procedures using accepted sterile techniques. The student will have the opportunity to demonstrate an understanding of the indications, contraindications, rationale and potential complications with additional emphasis on patient preparation, required materials, asceptic technique, procedure steps, wound care, patient safety and education. Faculty will facilitate lecture and laboratory experience that will focus on demonstration and performance based training. Activities will range from observation to participation in procedure skills utilized during the clinical phase of their studies. Prerequisites: PHAS 6137.
PHAS 6133. Cardiology. 3.5 Credit Hours.
This course provides students with all aspects of medical care related to selected cardiovascular disorders. It will provide students with an opportunity to develop an understanding of human disease states. Instruction will include recognition of disease state through data collection, assessment, management, patient education, and disease prevention. Health disparities will be included.
PHAS 6134. Pulmonology. 2 Credit Hours.
This course provides students with all aspects of medical care related to selected pulmonary disorders. It will provide students with an opportunity to develop an understanding of human disease states. Instruction will include recognition of disease state through data collection, assessment, management, patient education, and disease prevention. Health disparities will be included.
PHAS 6135. Dermatology. 1 Credit Hour.
This course provides students with aspects of medical care related to dermatology. It will provide students with an opportunity to develop an understanding of human disease states. Instruction will include recognition of disease state through data collection, assessment, management, patient education, and disease prevention. Instruction in health disparities and diverse populations is included.
PHAS 6136. Otolaryngology. 1.5 Credit Hour.
This course provides students with aspects of medical care related to the otolaryngology related organ systems. It will provide students with an opportunity to develop an understanding of human disease states. Instruction will include recognition of disease state through data collection, assessment, management, patient education, and disease prevention. Instruction in health disparities and diverse populations is included.
PHAS 6137. Technical Skills 2. 1 Credit Hour.
This course is a continuation of Technical Skills 1, and provides the student with additional knowledge and skills necessary to perform selected clinical procedures using accepted sterile techniques. The student will have the opportunity to demonstrate an understanding of the indications, contraindications, rationale and potential complications with additional emphasis on patient preparation, required materials, asceptic technique, procedure steps, wound care, patient safety and education. Faculty will facilitate lecture and laboratory experience that will focus on demonstration and performance based training. Activities will range from observation to participation in procedure skills utilized during the clinical phase of their studies. Prerequisites: PHAS 6131.
PHAS 6138. Neurology. 1.5 Credit Hour.
This course provides students with aspects of medical care related to the neurologic system. It will provide students with an opportunity to develop an understanding of human disease states. Instruction will include recognition of disease state through data collection, assessment, management, patient education, and disease prevention. Instruction in health disparities and diverse populations is included.
PHAS 6140. Laboratory Medicine 2. 1.5 Credit Hour.
This course is offered to students in the Physician Assistant Studies Program. The course is designed to provide the student with the opportunity to gain information on the profession of clinical laboratory science including history and job characteristics. Relationships between abnormal physiology and laboratory testing will be emphasized. Basic lab and math statistics will be taught. Part of the course is Web based.
EMSP 6135. Advanced Cardiac Life Support. 1 Credit Hour.
Theory and skills necessary for the management of cardiovascular emergencies as specified by the American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines. This course was designed to be repeated multiple times to improve student proficiency and available for Master's level of higher programs.