University of Dubuque United States

Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1.3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MSPAS) at the University of Dubuque is designed for ambitious individuals seeking to make a significant impact in healthcare by practicing medicine under physician supervision. This postgraduate program equips you with comprehensive knowledge and essential practical skills, focusing on patient assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and evidence-based treatment strategies. You will explore critical areas of anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and clinical medicine, preparing you to meet the growing demand for skilled physician assistants in diverse healthcare settings. This rigorous academic journey is tailored for those ready to embrace the challenges and rewards of advanced clinical practice.

This intensive, full-time, on-campus Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program spans 27 months. You will begin with a 15-month didactic phase, immersing yourself in foundational medical sciences and clinical skills through structured classroom instruction. Subsequently, you will engage in an 11-month clinical phase, undertaking supervised rotations across core medical specialties including family medicine, general surgery, pediatrics, and emergency medicine, gaining invaluable hands-on experience. The program concludes with a capstone project and review course on campus, preparing you for a successful career as a physician assistant.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program prepares students for a career as a physician assistant. The curriculum is divided into a 15-month didactic phase covering foundational sciences, clinical assessment, diagnostics, pharmacology, and clinical medicine, followed by an 11-month clinical phase. During the clinical phase, students will complete rotations in various medical specialties, including emergency medicine, family medicine, internal medicine, and surgery, alongside elective rotations and a capstone project.

1 Didactic Phase (15 Months)

Anatomy Compulsory
Physiology I Compulsory
Clinical Assessment I Compulsory
Role of the PA I Compulsory
Diagnostics I Compulsory
Medical Microbiology & Infectious Disease Compulsory
Physiology II Compulsory
Pharmacology in Disease Pathology I Compulsory
Clinical Medicine I Compulsory
Clinical Assessment II Compulsory
Integration into Clinical Concepts I Compulsory
Diagnostics II Compulsory
Clinical Skills I Compulsory
Pharmacology in Disease Pathology II Compulsory
Clinical Medicine II Compulsory
Integration into Clinical Concepts II Compulsory
Behavioral Health Compulsory
Diagnostics III Compulsory
Role of the PA II Compulsory
Clinical Medicine III Compulsory
Clinical Skills II Compulsory
Evidence Based Medicine Compulsory
Integration into Clinical Concepts III Compulsory
Pharmacology in Disease Pathology III Compulsory
Didactic Comprehensive Exam Compulsory

2 Clinical Phase (11 months)

Emergency Medicine Clinical Rotation Compulsory
Family Medicine Clinical Rotation Compulsory
Internal Medicine Clinical Rotation Compulsory
Medical Specialties Clinical Rotation Compulsory
Women's Health Clinical Rotation Compulsory
Pediatric Clinical Rotation Compulsory
Psychiatry/Behavioral Health Clinical Rotation Compulsory
Surgery Clinical Rotation Compulsory
Rural Medicine Clinical Rotation Compulsory
Elective I Clinical Rotation Compulsory
Elective II Clinical Rotation Compulsory
Professional Competency Course Compulsory
Capstone Project Compulsory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 5,100.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 5,100.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 10,200.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 2,400.00 - USD 3,600.00
Transport USD 360.00 - USD 840.00
Utilities & Bills USD 720.00 - USD 1,440.00
Estimated Total USD 3,480.00 - USD 5,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Dubuque Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

98%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Clinical & Medical ServicesHealth Technology & Digital HealthHealthcare Administration & ManagementHealthcare ConsultingHome Health & Long‑Term CareMedical Research & Clinical TrialsMental Health & CounselingNursing & Allied HealthPublic Health & EpidemiologyRehabilitation & Physiotherapy

Top Employers Hiring for this course

UnityPoint Health

Why Study Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at University of Dubuque

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

University of Dubuque typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at University of Dubuque in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at University of Dubuque

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work does not require separate permits, while off-campus work may require university approval.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English language proficiency, Duolingo requires an overall score of 80. TOEFL and IELTS scores have specific minimums across categories, so please check the requirements carefully.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers such as Physician Assistant, Medical Assistant, Clinical Coordinator, Healthcare Consultant, and Surgical Assistant.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MSPAS) at the University of Dubuque is designed for ambitious individuals seeking to make a significant impact in healthcare by practicing medicine under physician supervision. This postgraduate program equips you with comprehensive knowledge and essential practical skills, focusing on patient assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and evidence-based treatment strategies. You will explore critical areas of anatomy, physiology, pharmacology,

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program has two intake months: January and August. Prospective students should apply ahead of these dates to secure their place.
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