Thinking about becoming a physician assistant but worried about how to complete prerequisite courses for PA School? You’re not alone. Many aspiring PA students discover they need additional coursework before they can apply to their dream programs. The good news is that completing prerequisite courses for graduate school has become faster, easier, and more affordable than ever before with online options.
Before diving into how to complete your prerequisite courses for PA school online, it’s essential to understand exactly what’s required. Most PA programs require a similar set of foundation courses, though specific requirements can vary between schools according to the Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA).
Core Science Courses:
Mathematics:
Additional Requirements:
The key is to research your target PA programs thoroughly, as some schools are picky about where courses come from and may have specific accreditation requirements. The CASPA Application Help Center provides detailed guidance on prerequisite documentation and requirements.
Ready to start your prerequisites? Explore our comprehensive course offerings at PrereqCourses.com that meet PA school requirements with fully accredited, self-paced online courses.
Most PA school applicants are career changers or working professionals who need flexibility. Traditional college courses often require you to attend classes during business hours, making it challenging to balance work, family, and education. Online prerequisite courses solve this problem by offering:
With online prerequisite courses, you can earn the credits you need at a fraction of the cost, saving up to 70% compared to traditional college courses. This cost difference can be substantial when you’re planning for the expensive PA school tuition ahead, which according to PAEA data, averages over $100,000 for the full program.
Many online prerequisite programs allow you to complete courses faster than traditional semester-based programs. Some students finish a full course in just a few weeks, depending on their dedication and available study time.
When selecting online prerequisite courses for PA school, accreditation should be your top priority. PA schools will only accept courses from regionally accredited institutions. Look for programs that are:
All courses through PrereqCourses.com are fully accredited through Upper Iowa University, a regionally accredited institution founded in 1857 that serves over 5,000 students annually.
Many PA school prerequisites include laboratory components, which can be challenging to complete online. Look for programs that offer:
Before enrolling, verify that your chosen online courses will transfer to your target PA programs. Contact the program departments of any school you might apply to and find out what’s expected in prerequisite coursework to ensure your online courses meet their specific requirements.
Start by requesting official transcripts from all colleges and universities you’ve attended. Create a spreadsheet listing:
Since master’s programs differ so much in both required prerequisites and the knowledge needed to succeed in the program, prospective graduate school students should contact the program departments to understand specific requirements. Create a comparison chart of your target programs to identify:
Some prerequisite courses must be taken in sequence. For example:
Plan your timeline accordingly, keeping in mind PA school application deadlines typically fall between April and October according to CASPA.
Choose a reputable, accredited online program that offers the flexibility and support you need. Consider courses that offer:
Online learning requires strong self-discipline and time management. Create a realistic study schedule that includes:
Set up a specific area in your home for studying. This helps create a mental boundary between study time and personal time, improving focus and productivity.
Online courses can feel isolating, but you can increase engagement by:
Remember why you’re taking these courses. The American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) provides inspiration about the PA profession. Keep your PA school goals visible and celebrate small victories along the way to maintain motivation during challenging periods.
While completing prerequisites, also prepare for required standardized tests like the GRE. Many successful students use their prerequisite courses to refresh foundational knowledge that appears on these exams.
Challenge: Balancing work, family, and coursework Solution: Create a detailed weekly schedule and communicate your goals with family members for support
Challenge: Worry about online lab quality Solution: Research programs thoroughly and read reviews from past students who’ve successfully transferred to PA programs
Challenge: Staying motivated during long prerequisite sequences Solution: Connect with other pre-PA students online and set intermediate milestones to celebrate progress
Challenge: Technical difficulties with online platforms Solution: Ensure reliable internet, have backup plans, and familiarize yourself with platform features before courses begin
While online prerequisite courses often cost less than traditional options, budget for:
Many online prerequisite programs participate in federal financial aid programs. Explore options such as:
While prerequisite courses can increase graduate school costs, they’re essential for gaining admission. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, PA careers offer excellent job prospects with a median annual wage of $133,260, making prerequisite courses a worthwhile investment.
If you’re a recent college graduate, you might need only a few additional courses. You can often complete these within 6-12 months while gaining healthcare experience through volunteering or entry-level healthcare positions.
If you’re changing careers from a non-science background, plan for 1-2 years to complete all prerequisites. This timeline allows you to maintain work responsibilities while building a strong academic foundation.
If you have some science coursework but need updates or additional courses, plan for 6-18 months depending on your specific needs and how quickly you want to apply.
Prerequisite courses are more about proving a student has mastered the required knowledge base than just completing coursework. Focus on:
PA schools want to see that you can handle rigorous academic work. Use your prerequisite courses to demonstrate:
Upon completion of your courses, you can simply complete a short online form to have the transcript sent directly to your undergraduate or graduate program. Keep detailed records of where transcripts need to be sent for each PA program application.
While completing prerequisites, also work on other application components:
The PA profession continues to evolve, with many programs transitioning to master’s degrees and some to doctoral programs. Stay informed through PAEA updates about trends that might affect your application strategy.
Completing prerequisite courses for PA school online offers unprecedented flexibility and affordability for aspiring physician assistants. With proper planning, dedication, and the right course provider, you can efficiently complete your prerequisites while maintaining your current commitments.
The key is to start with thorough research, create a realistic timeline, and stay focused on your ultimate goal of becoming a physician assistant. Remember that life is challenging, but getting your prerequisite courses doesn’t have to be. With today’s online options, you can take control of your education timeline and move closer to your PA school dreams.
Whether you’re just beginning to explore the PA profession or you’re ready to start your prerequisite courses tomorrow, the path to PA school is more accessible than ever. Take the first step today by visiting PrereqCourses.com to explore accredited online courses that can help you achieve your goals efficiently and affordably.
Ready to get started? The sooner you begin your prerequisite courses, the sooner you’ll be helping patients as a certified physician assistant.
