One of the oldest states in the US, New Hampshire is home to some of the most prestigious colleges and universities. Still, only two institutions in this state offer physician assistant (PA) programs.
To know more about these programs and other important information all aspiring PAs should know, read through the sections below!
The Schools in New Hampshire Currently Offering PA Programs
At present, two schools in New Hampshire offer PA programs:
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences - Manchester
Franklin Pierce University
Many New Hampshire residents also enroll in the PA program offered by Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences - Worcester, but this school is in Massachusetts.
In-Person vs. Online vs. Hybrid PA Programs
In-Person Programs
In these programs, students take classes on campus 4-5 times a week, and on most days, they have 3-4 classes.
Most students live on campus during this time, but others choose to commute.
These programs require clinical experience, usually acquired locally through arrangements the school has established with medical institutions in the area.
Online PA Programs
In many ways, online and on-campus programs are similar, but online programs don’t require you to travel. Also, they’re cheaper.
They’re more flexible and convenient too, since most of the time you can learn at your own pace.
Like in-person PA programs, these require clinical experience, and the program should connect you with local institutions that’ll give you an opportunity to gain this valuable and necessary experience.
The accessibility of clinical experience is something to consider when choosing an online program.
Also, check to see what kind of learning style the program utilizes: is it synchronous or asynchronous?
Asynchronous means you can attend classes when it's convenient, and synchronous means you'll have to attend classes virtually at designated times.
Just like in-person classes, the workload in an online program is substantial, and it’s rigorous as well.
Hybrid PA Programs
Hybrid programs bring together the best of both worlds. You only have to attend classes in person a few days a week, and most of the work is completed outside the classroom.
These programs are ideal for students who want flexibility but don't want to miss out on the experiences that on-campus classes can foster.
But for hybrid learning to be possible, you’ll need to be able to attend classes, so this means living on campus or commuting.
Even commuting a long distance isn’t that bad since you only have to go two to three times a week.
How Much Do PAs Make in New Hampshire?
The average annual salary for PAs in New Hampshire is $116,295.
You could make more or less, depending on your experience, qualifications, location, etc.
Generally, PAs who work in urban centers make more than PAs who work in more rural areas.
How Long Does PA School Take?
Most physician assistant programs take two years to complete. Online and hybrid programs, however, can take 2.5 to 3 years.
If you were licensed before a master’s was required, you could enroll in an accelerated program that takes 1-1.5 years.
Full-time PA programs usually have seven semesters; over this time, a student must acquire 147 credit hours.
What Do You Have to Do to Become a PA?
Get Your Bachelor’s
First, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in an applicable science, like biology, chemistry, molecular biology, organic chemistry, nursing, or A&P.
If you successfully completed numerous rigorous courses as an undergraduate, point this out when applying to PA programs.
Get Your Master’s Degree
It’ll take you two years to get your master’s; enrolling in an online or hybrid program could take longer. As a graduate student, you'll take didactic science courses and complete clinical rotations.
Pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE)
Once you have your master’s, you’ll need to pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE), which is administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA).
Upon passing, you can apply for licensure in your state. However, there may be additional state requirements you have to fulfill first.
You'll have six chances to pass the PANCE over six years. 95% of this exam assesses students’ knowledge of topics that all PAs must know inside and out.
Maintain Certification
You’ll need to acquire 100 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain your PA certification.
Additionally, you’ll have to pass the PANCE every ten years. If you fail the first time, you’ll have three more chances to pass.
How to Get Into PA School
To get into a PA program, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in relevant science.
Plus, your cumulative GPA shouldn’t be lower than 3.25; the same goes for your GPAs in science-related majors.
Your Graduate Record Examination (GRE) score should be at least 300.
What Does a PA Do?
A physician assistant is a medical professional who assists doctors, surgeons, and specialists.
These medical professionals work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities, constituting an integral part of the healthcare system.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, physician assistants perform the following duties:
Review the medical histories of patients
Examine patients
Diagnose injuries and illnesses
Prescribe medication
Assess and record patient progress
Administer treatment
Order and interpret X-rays, blood tests, and other diagnostic tests
Educate and counsel patients and their families
Research the latest treatments to deliver better care
Participate in outreach programs to spread disease awareness and promote wellness
A PA’s responsibilities are largely determined by the facility they work for. Therefore, PAs who work in large, urban hospitals tend to have more responsibilities than PAs who work in small suburban clinics, but this isn’t always the case.
How myPAresource Helps PA School Hopefuls
At myPAresource, we’re all about helping PA school hopefuls get into the schools of their dreams.
We’ll help with every part of the admissions process, and we’ll make sure your personal statement conveys that you’ll be a great addition to any school you attend.
Email us now at info@myparesource.com or visit our site to learn more about what we’re offering!