Physician Assistant Course Details - Fees, Subjects, Syllabus, Duration, Eligibility, Career Scope

What is Physician Assistant

Physician Assistants (PAs) are skilled healthcare professionals trained to diagnose illnesses, develop treatment plans, and assist in surgeries under the supervision of a physician. They work across various medical specialities and settings, playing a vital role in extending quality patient care and improving healthcare access, especially in busy clinical environments.

Physician Assistant programmes are offered at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels in India through recognised medical and allied health institutions. Students aspiring to pursue undergraduate courses must have completed Class 12 in the science stream with a focus on Biology. For PG courses, candidates should hold a bachelor’s degree in Physician Assistant or a related medical field.

Students are trained to assist in a wide range of clinical environments, including internal medicine, surgery, paediatrics, and emergency care. The course includes hands-on clinical exposure and supervised internships. After completing their bachelor’s degree, students can pursue postgraduate studies, such as an MSc or PhD, or other advanced clinical training programmes.

Physician Assistant – Highlights

Physician Assistant is a vital branch of allied health sciences that focuses on providing diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive healthcare services under the supervision of physicians. It integrates clinical skills with medical knowledge, preparing professionals to support doctors across various specialities. Below are the key highlights of the Physician Assistant course:

Specialisations or Similar Fields in Physician Assistant

Physician Assistants in India often specialise in specific clinical areas during internship training in a hospital or postgraduate studies. These specialisations help them develop focused expertise in medical disciplines such as surgery, emergency care, and cardiology. Specialisation improves job prospects and allows professionals to contribute effectively in high-demand healthcare settings.

Top Private Physician Assistant Colleges in India

India has several reputed private institutions offering Physician Assistant programmes for students interested in clinical support roles in healthcare. These colleges provide quality education, modern infrastructure, and hands-on clinical training. Below is a list of some top private colleges in India that offer Physician Assistant courses, along with their respective fee details.

Note: The fee structure provided above can be for any particular Physical Assistant Course (Diploma/UG & PG or Diploma). 

Top Government Physician Assistant Colleges in India

Government colleges in India offering Physician Assistant programmes are known for their affordable fees, quality training, and experienced faculty. These institutions often collaborate with public hospitals, providing strong clinical exposure. Below is a list of some top government colleges in India offering Physician Assistant courses, along with their fee structure.

Eligibility Criteria (UG & PG) of Physician Assistant

To pursue a Physician Assistant course, candidates must meet specific educational qualifications at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. While exact requirements may vary slightly across institutions, the general eligibility criteria remain largely consistent across medical and allied health institutions offering these programmes.

Undergraduate Level

At the undergraduate level, candidates aspiring to enrol in a Physician Assistant course are typically required to have completed their Class 12 education in the science stream, with subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Some universities may also require a minimum aggregate score for admission.

• Candidates must have passed 10+2 from a recognised board with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as mandatory subjects.
• They must have secured a minimum aggregate of 50 per cent (may vary by institution).

Entrance Exam for the Undergraduate Level

Admission to undergraduate Physician Assistant programmes is usually based on merit or entrance examinations. Some institutions accept scores from national-level tests, while others conduct their own entrance exams. The selection process depends on the specific admission policy of the university or college.

Postgraduate Level

For admission into postgraduate Physician Assistant courses, such as MSc in Physician Assistant or related specialities, candidates must hold a relevant undergraduate degree. This may include a BSc in Physician Assistant or a degree in allied health/life sciences from a recognised institution with the required percentage.

• Candidates must have passed a bachelor’s degree in Physician Assistant or related life sciences with at least 50 per cent aggregate.
• The degree should be obtained from a recognised university or institution.

Entrance Exam for the Postgraduate Level

Admission to PG Physician Assistant programmes may be conducted through competitive exams at the national level or through institute-specific entrance tests. Selection processes vary by university and depend on institutional guidelines.

Required Skillset for Physician Assistant

To succeed in the field of Physician Assistantship, candidates must possess a mix of clinical knowledge, communication abilities, and decision-making skills. These competencies ensure effective patient care, accurate clinical support, and strong collaboration with healthcare teams. Compassion, precision, and adaptability are key to thriving in this fast-paced medical role. Here are some essential skills for Physician Assistant professionals:

• Clinical Examination and Diagnostic Skills
• Knowledge of Human Anatomy and Physiology
• Medical Documentation and Case History Management
• Patient Communication and Counselling
• Surgical Assistance Techniques
• Emergency Response and First Aid Knowledge
• Interdisciplinary Team Coordination
• Ethical Judgement in Clinical Scenarios
• Time Management and Organisational Abilities
• Research and Evidence-Based Practice Understanding