Looking to become a physician assistant (PA) in Mississippi? Then you need to know all about the best physician assistant schools in Mississippi. Choosing the right program is the first step to becoming a fully licensed PA, so choose wisely.

Read on to learn all about the PA programs that are currently being offered in the great state of Mississippi!

On-Campus Physician Assistant Programs

In Mississippi, the following institutions offer on-campus physician assistant programs:

Mississippi College
MSU – Meridian

If you attend either of these programs, you’ll have to be a full-time student, and you'll have to live on campus or commute.

On-campus programs usually require students to take classes four to five days out of the week, and students can have three to five classes on any given school day.

Students must also gain clinical experience, and the institutions are supposed to help them get this since they have connections with local facilities and institutions that can provide students with valuable experience.

Online Physician Assistant Programs

Online physician assistant programs are similar to on-campus programs, but online programs are more convenient since you don't have to commute or live on campus to take classes.

And in asynchronous classes, you can learn at your own pace and complete the coursework when it's convenient. There are, however, times when you'll have to attend classes at specific times.

Online programs also have heavy workloads, and they’re just as rigorous as on-campus programs. This is why many students make taking an online class a full-time commitment.

You'll be expected to get clinical experience, and the institution that offers the program should help you acquire this.

Online PA Program Formats

There are two kinds of classes in an online program: asynchronous classes and synchronous classes.

Asynchronous classes can—for the most part—be completed when it's convenient, but they still have deadlines and other requirements.

Synchronous classes are held at specific times each week. Often, active participation is required in these classes, and professors take attendance.

While synchronous classes aren't as convenient as asynchronous classes, you can learn more in them since there’s more engagement with peers and professors.

Hybrid Physician Assistant Programs

Hybrid programs bring together the elements that make on-campus and online classes great. You won't have to attend a campus as much, but you can still enjoy the classroom experience.

Most of the coursework is completed outside the class, and trips to campus are usually for lectures, presentations, exams, etc.

Hybrid programs are less expensive than on-campus programs, but they're more expensive than online programs.

In-Person vs Online vs Hybrid Programs

The three kinds of PA programs—on-campus, online, and hybrid—all offer benefits and drawbacks. You should know what these are before you choose a program.

On-campus, or in-person classes, are preferred because you can take advantage of the full classroom experience.

That is, you can interact with peers and professors, and you can also take advantage of other programs that the institution offers.

Plus, since you’ll be on campus or close by, you can take advantage of the institution’s resources.

The drawback is that on-campus programs are more expensive, mainly because you have to pay for accommodations or regular commuting.

Online classes are more affordable and more convenient, but they lack the engagement that a real classroom provides.

Hybrid courses essentially combine the best of both worlds. You get to take advantage of on-campus learning, but you don’t have to go to school day in and day out.

How to Become a Physician Assistant in Mississippi

First, you have to be accepted into a PA program that’s accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA).

Then you need to complete your degree, which could take two to four years (depending on the kind of program you enroll in).

After you earn your degree, you have to pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE).

Once you pass this, you should have all the qualifications for licensure, but check with Mississippi’s state board to see what the exact requirements are.

How Long Does a Mississippi PA Program Take?

Physician assistant programs can take anywhere from two to four years to complete. Most PA programs take 27 months.

If you’re a licensed PA but you don't hold a master’s degree, you can take an uncredited bridge course that’s accelerated.

The time it takes you to complete PA school is in large part determined by the program you enroll in.

Generally speaking, on-campus programs get completed quicker than online and hybrid courses, usually within two years.

Hybrid courses usually take 2.5-3 years, whereas online courses are usually completed in 2.5-4 years.

The time it takes to complete a degree is definitely something you should consider before choosing a program.

Tips for Becoming a Physician Assistant in Mississippi

Pick a program that best suits your learning style.

Additionally, consider making your PA program, no matter what kind of program it is, a full-time commitment. This way you can make the most of the experience and gain valuable skills and knowledge that’ll help you in your career.

It’s smart to get everything relating to financing squared away before you begin; this way you don’t have to worry later.

While you’re a student, you should participate in extracurricular activities to gain more insights and widen your perspective.

Also, you should make arrangements to get your clinical experience as soon as possible so you don’t end up with a lackluster placement.

Get Accepted to a Top Pa Program With Help From myPAresource

Getting into PA school is no easy task, as much depends on the strength of your application.

So why not get professional help so you can submit a personal statement that’ll show any admissions board you’re worthy of acceptance.