How to Become a Physician Assistant: Roadmap & Timeline
PA schedules vary significantly by specialty. Emergency medicine PAs see undifferentiated acuity in fast-paced shifts. Surgical PAs spend time both in the OR assisting with procedures and rounding on inpatients. Primary care PAs manage panels of patients similar to NP or physician schedules.
Step-by-Step Requirements
- Step 1: Bachelor's degree with prerequisites in biology, chemistry, and anatomy
- Step 2: 1,000–3,000 hours of patient care experience before applying to PA school
- Step 3: Master's degree from an ARC-PA accredited PA program (typically 27 months)
- Step 4: PANCE (Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam) — national board examination
Career Path Timeline
1
Physician Assistant (New Graduate)
0–2 years experience · $95,000/year
$95,000
2
Physician Assistant
2–5 years experience · $130,000/year
$130,000
3
Senior PA / Lead PA
5–10 years experience · $158,000/year
$158,000
4
PA Manager / Director of APP Services
10–15 years experience · $185,000/year
$185,000
5
Chief PA / VP Advanced Practice
15+ years experience · $215,000/year
$215,000
Skills to Build First
History TakingPhysical ExaminationDiagnosisSurgical AssistanceSuturingPharmacologyEHRProcedures (specialty-dependent)Emergency ManagementPatient Communication
Where to Find Physician Assistant Jobs
AAPA JoblinkPracticeLinkLinkedInIndeedBarton AssociatesHospital career portalsCompHealth
The BLS projects 28% growth for PAs through 2032, supported by the same physician shortage dynamics driving NP demand. Surgical specialties (orthopedics, neurosurgery, cardiovascular surgery) and emergency medicine offer the strongest compensation, with specialty PAs consistently earning above the $130,000 national median.