Why study Pre-Physician Assistant at MC?

Overview

The B.A. in Biology and B.A. in Biochemistry provide excellent preparation for physician’s assistant (PA) programs. Maryville College students have stellar placement into PA schools due to the rigorous academic program, the emphasis on undergraduate research, and the personal reference letters made by their faculty. During their tenure at MC, students are advised to work at a doctor’s office.

This hands-on experience combined with the rigorous academic coursework and undergraduate research provides Maryville College students ideal preparation for PA school.

Maryville College faculty members work closely with MC students, both in courses and conducting research. As a result, Maryville College faculty members are able to write excellent letters of reference and recommendation for MC students because faculty and students truly know one another.

A new and exciting opportunity within the Natural Science Division of Maryville College is our Pre-Physician’s assistant pathway.  A Physician’s Assistant (PA) is a health care provider licensed to practice under a Physician’s supervision.  As part of their comprehensive responsibilities, PAs conduct physical exams, diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret tests, offer counsel on preventive health care, provide surgical assistance, and write prescriptions (in nearly all states within the U.S.).  

Through hands on laboratory work, the completion of a senior study, assistance with locating doctors and P.A.s with which to shadow, and personal letters of recommendation from faculty, Maryville College will provide you the training, confidence, experience, and information needed for successful entry into Physician’s Assistant graduate studies programs.  You’ll get prepared while enjoying fun and enriching learning opportunities.

Photo of Shannon Reagan

Shannon Reagan ’20

Currently: Pursuing Physician Assistant Master of Science in Medicine (M.S.M) degree at Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville, Tennessee

Shannon, a standout on the MC women’s soccer team and the Scots’ first student-athlete to earn an NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship, is currently in her second year at TNU. She plans a career in either women’s health/fertility or dermatology.

Her 2020 Senior Study on surface disinfection of public spaces was not only relevant because of COVID-19, it prepared her for success in graduate school and also confirmed her career choice.

“When I was thinking about potential Senior Study topics, I knew that I definitely wanted to do a microbiology project that would somehow relate to public health,” she said. “After completing the research, I was confident that I had an aptitude for studying topics related to public health and medicine.”

She is thankful for the people across campus who made her research a success. “My academic advisor, Dr. Jennifer Brigati, provided encouragement, support and guidance throughout the process; Dr. Jeff Bay, chair of MC’s Division of Mathematics & Computer Science and professor of statistics, helped me conduct and interpret the statistical analyses of her data; and Reggie Dailey, director of the Physical Plant, donated chemical disinfectants and target surfaces for the project,” she said.

 

Chair, Division of Natural Sciences, Professor of Biology
Dr. Jennifer Brigati
Chair, Division of Natural Sciences, Professor of Biology
More Info
Professor of Chemistry
Dr. Angelia Gibson
Professor of Chemistry
More Info

We primarily recommend the B.A. / B.S. in Biology or the B.A. / B.S. in Biochemistry as preparatory paths to PA School. However, there are other MC majors that will also be good options. Required courses will differ depending on the student’s chosen major. Students should discuss it with their Academic Advisor as well as the Career Center about the path that most aligns with your future interests.

In addition to required courses for majors and minors, Maryville College students take classes in the Maryville Curriculum, a core program of general education. Consisting of 51 credit hours, the Maryville Curriculum ensures that students see their major in a wider context and develop the basic communication, quantitative, and critical thinking skills that are needed for success in college and career.

Catalog Apply

Request Info

Interested in this Program of Study at Maryville College? Submit your basic information and an Admissions counselor will contact you shortly to answer any questions you might have.

Loading…