Physician Assistant master’s degree program begins at Kansas State University

MANHATTAN, Kan. (WIBW) -Students looking for a career in the medical field can now study in a new Master of Science degree program at Kansas State University.

35 students are the first to enroll, making history at Kansas State University. They’re the first class in the school’s Physician Assistant Program.

“This is an amazing time for K State to have a physician assistant program. There’s only one other program in the state of Kansas and based on population needs, we know that another one was needed.” Kansas State University Physician Assistant Program Executive Director, Gwen Ferdinand-Jacob said.

Plans for the program began in 2018 – and the timing couldn’t be better.

As health care facilities struggle with shortages, Physician Assistants can work in every field of medicine, including primary care, specialty, and subspecialty practices.

“In the first year, they are in the classroom, most of all, and they will do some visits to nursing homes, some hospital visits, but they will only be in observation status. We want to teach them how physician assistants work in a team setting.” Ferdinand-Jacob said.

During the second year of the 27-month program, PA Students will complete 10 rotations at different medical facilities, including at least one in a rural area.

“If we look at health care in Kansas, about 94 of the 105 counties are underrepresented in primary care and behavioral health,” Ferdinand-Jacob added. “So, I believe that all students can make a difference.”

Following graduation, the Physician Assistants will need to pass a national certification exam before they can practice medicine and work alongside physicians in hospitals and clinics in urban and rural settings.

Physician Assistants earn an average $115,000 annually.

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