Bachelor of Science in Premedical Health Studies—Physician Assistant Pathway (BS/MPAS)
School of Arts and Sciences
Location: Boston
Start Term: Fall, Spring
This 3+3 pathway allows you to earn both a Bachelor of Science in Premedical Health Studies (BS) and a Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) in six years instead of the traditional seven.
Train to Become a Vital Member of Any Healthcare Team
Your BS/MPAS Journey
Work closely with faculty mentors who have years of expertise in both teaching and advising students. After an intensive study of the basic behavioral and medical sciences, you’ll gain in-depth exposure to a wide variety of patients in a range of clinical clerkships. And you will be prepared to begin your career with confidence.
First Year
- study biology and the principles of chemistry and attend associated labs
- begin your exposure to the liberal arts by exploring expository writing and human psychology
Second Year
- continue to build an interdisciplinary foundation of knowledge by taking electives in the humanities and behavioral science
- develop your knowledge of the health professions and hone the interpersonal communication skills necessary to be an effective member of the healthcare community
- study organic chemistry and medical microbiology and participate in associated labs
- complete two introduction to MPAS online survey courses which must be passed to enroll in the MPAS program
Third Year
- explore healthcare ethics
- study cellular biochemistry, physics, and advanced anatomy and physiology
- students who submit a CASPA, achieve the minimum GPA, patient-care experience hours, and course requirements are guaranteed an interview for admission into the MPAS program
Learn about the MCPHS Student Experience
A Program Focused on Achieving Career Goals
MCPHS students are committed to their healthcare careers, and we give them the knowledge and training to reach—and often exceed—their professional goals.
#2 "Best Health Care Jobs"
US News and World Report ranks physician assistant #2 in healthcare jobs and #3 in best jobs overall for 2022
#1 Best School for Pre-Medicine
As ranked for Bachelor's Students in the U.S. by College Factual.
$121,530 average salary
for physician assistants according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021
MCPHS Community Voices
Ryland Roderick '21 '23
| BS/MPASAfter going into cardiac arrest at age 19, Ryland Roderick’s experience as a patient deeply strengthened his commitment to a career as a physician assistant. “I feel like once you have someone who knows what you are going through, there’s a lot more empathy and compassion."
Kelsey Pozerski Talks about the Value of her Premed Journey
Other Pathways in Premedical Health Studies
In addition to the Bachelor of Science in Premedical Health Studies — Physician Assistant Studies Pathway (BS/MPAS), we offer seven degree pathways covering general premed studies as well as training in specific disciplines.
Bachelor of Science in Premedical Health Studies
Build a robust foundation in the health sciences as preparation for graduate school in optometry, medicine, physician assistant studies, and other fields.
Bachelor of Science in Premedical Health Studies / Dental Medicine Pathway (BS/DMD) — Boston
Four years at MCPHS-Boston followed by four years at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Bachelor of Science in Premedical Health Studies / Medicine Pathway (BS/MD with SGU) — Boston
Three years at MCPHS-Boston, two years at St. George’s University (SGU) School of Medicine, and two years of clinical rotations at affiliated hospitals.
Bachelor of Science in Premedical Health Studies / Optometry Pathway (BS/OD) — Boston
Depending on the track you choose, three or four years at MCPHS-Boston followed by four years at MCPHS-Worcester.
Bachelor of Science in Premedical Health Studies / Osteopathic Medicine Pathway (BS/DO with LECOM) — Boston
Four years at MCPHS-Boston followed by four years at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Bachelor of Science in Premedical Health Studies / Osteopathic Medicine Pathway (BS/DO with ATSU)
Depending on the track you choose, three or four years at MCPHS-Boston followed by four years at A.T. Still University (ATSU).
Bachelor of Science in Premedical Health Studies / Veterinary Medicine Pathway (BS/DVM)
Three years at MCPHS-Boston, followed by four years of study at St. George’s University (SGU) Veterinary School.
Download a Program Fact Sheet
Download a program fact sheet for a snapshot of the Bachelor of Science in Premedical Health Studies—Physician Assistant Pathway.