Sacred Heart University

Programme overview

The dual degree is an integrated 4+27-month pathway: students complete a bachelor’s degree (in biology, health science, exercise science or neuroscience) while satisfying PA prerequisites during four years of undergraduate study, then progress directly into a 27-month graduate MSPAS. Dual degree candidates are assured admission to the graduate PA program provided they continue to meet program-specific progression criteria as undergraduates. Instruction emphasizes hands-on learning in SHU’s medical skills labs and clinical settings with clinicians from a range of specialties.

What you'll study

Coursework and clinical experience focus on the knowledge and skills required for PA practice. Students begin clinical experiences in their first undergraduate year and gain direct patient-care exposure across multiple disciplines. Disciplines and clinical areas explicitly noted in the programme materials include:

• Internal medicine
• Pediatrics
• Orthopedics
• Women’s health / Obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN)
• Anesthesiology
• Dermatology
• Family medicine
• Neurology
• Psychiatry

Entry requirements

Students enter the dual pathway as undergraduates and must complete one of the listed bachelor’s majors while meeting the program-specific PA prerequisites and progression standards. Undergraduates are assigned an academic adviser and have access to faculty and counseling resources to help them remain on track for graduate enrollment.

Career prospects

The programme prepares graduates for certification and clinical practice as physician associates in varied settings. The programme materials report a 100% graduate pass rate on the PANCE and 100% employment within 12 months of graduation. The source also cites the total median annual salary for a PA from AAPA as $134,000, indicating strong income potential.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

The dual degree can reduce overall cost compared with pursuing separate undergraduate and graduate programs because the pathway reserves a graduate seat and may offer tuition savings. Undergraduate students also benefit from college advising, industry events and student clubs that can support application of financial aid or scholarship opportunities.