Physician Assistant

This track supports students aiming to apply to Master’s-level PA programs. These programs typically require a strong foundation in science, clinical experience, and specific prerequisite courses. Most Pre-PA students at FGCU major in Biology, often in the Pre-Professional Concentration, but other majors are also appropriate. Please remember to reach out the OneHealth Pre-Professional Program Coordinator at prehealth@fgcu.edu for the most personalized support.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

  1. General Biology 1 with Lab (BSC 1010C)
  2. General Biology 2 (BSC 1011) and General Biology 2 Lab (BSC 1011L)
  3. General Chemistry 1 (CHM 1045)
  4. General Chemistry 1 Lab (CHW 1045L)
  5. General Chemistry 2 (CHM 1046)
  6. General Chemistry 2 Lab (CHW 1046L)
  1. Organic Chemistry 1 (CHM 2210)
  2. Organic Chemistry 1 Lab (CHM 2210L)
  3. Organic Chemistry 2 (CHM 2211)
  4. Organic Chemistry 2 Lab (CHM 2211L)
  5. Statistical Methods (STA 2023)
  1. Human Anatomy (ZOO 3733C)
  2. Human Physiology (PCB 3703C)
  3. Biochemistry (BCH 3023C)
  4. College Physics 1 (PHY 2053)
  5. College Physics 1 (PHY 2053L)
  6. College Physics 1 (PHY 2054)
  7. College Physics 1 (PHY 2054L)
  1. General Education Courses
  2. Genetics (PCB 3063C)
  3. General Psychology (PSY 2012)
  4. Medical Terminology
  5. Public Speaking Course

BEYOND CLASSROOM

Direct Patient Care Experience (DPE or HCE)

  • PA programs require paid or volunteer experience with direct hands-on patient care.

  • Common roles:

    • Medical assistant

    • Phlebotomist

    • EMT/Paramedic

    • Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

    • Physical therapy aide

    • ER technician

  • Most programs require 500–2,000 hours. Start early!

 Shadowing a PA

  • Shadow multiple physician assistants in various specialties (e.g., surgery, family medicine).

  • Keep a log of hours, dates, and reflections.

 Community Volunteering

  • Engage in consistent service work, especially with underserved populations.

  • This can be healthcare-related or general community service.

 Leadership & Involvement

  • Join the Pre-PA or Pre-Health club at FGCU.

  • Take leadership roles in campus or community organizations.

 Seminar Courses & Advising Support

  • Enroll in Seminar in Medicine I & II (BSC 1930L, BSC 2930L):

    • Learn about personal statements, references, interviews, and the application timeline.

  • Take advantage of mentoring from junior/senior pre-PA students through FGCU’s peer advising model.

 Undergraduate Research (Optional but Valuable)

  • Research is not required but demonstrates critical thinking and professionalism.

  • Consider BSC 4910C (Research) or BSC 4944C (Internship) as your capstone experience.