Physician Assistant (PA) Course Requirements
Always check for specific course requirements for each school you are going to apply to—this is only a guide.
| Class | Semesters | Skidmore Course(s) | Notes |
| Chemistry | variable with three to four semesters with lab often required, including general, organic chemistry, and/or biochemistry (sometimes at upper level) | CH 125 or CH 126 CH 221 CH 222 CH 341 |
Must take placement diagnostic. Schools that require two semesters of general chemistry will typically count CH 341 as the second semester (CH 115 does not fulfill the requirement). |
| General biology | two semesters with lab | BI 107 BI 108 | |
| Microbiology | one semester | BI 246 | |
| Genetics | one semester | BI 245 | |
| Anatomy and physiology | two semesters with lab | HP 126 HP 127 |
HP 126 is now a prerequisite for HP 127. |
| Upper-level physiology | one semester | HP 311 or BI 306 | |
| Psychology | one semester | PS 101 |
Physician assistants deliver a range of medical and surgical services in private practices/clinics, hospitals, HMO's, and federal government agencies/the armed forces. Some physician assistants pursue additional education in a specialty. A physician assistant must be a graduate of an accredited program and certified by the NCCPA to pursue this option.
Tests
The General Records Exam (GRE) is a computer-adaptive test offered hundreds of time per year in a variety of locations. There is a fee-reduction program that discounts the exam by 50% for those who qualify. Please note: You must apply for fee assistance well in advance of taking the GRE, at least 30 days.