Physician Assistant Programs in St. Paul, Minnesota

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Becoming a Physician Assistant in St. Paul, Minnesota

Embarking on a career as a Physician Assistant (PA) in St. Paul, Minnesota, offers a fulfilling opportunity to make a significant impact in the healthcare field. Physician Assistants are vital members of the medical team, working alongside doctors to diagnose and treat patients. This guide will explore the educational paths, local PA programs, employment opportunities, and certification requirements for aspiring PAs in St. Paul.

About St. Paul

St. Paul, the capital city of Minnesota, is known for its vibrant cultural scene and historic landmarks. Nestled along the Mississippi River, St. Paul offers a blend of urban and natural attractions, including the renowned Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. For more information about the city, visit the City of St. Paul official website.

PA Programs in St. Paul, Minnesota

St. Paul and its surrounding areas offer several accredited PA programs for those aspiring to enter this rewarding field. Here are some local options:

1. St. Catherine University
   Located in the Highland Park neighborhood, St. Catherine University offers a Master of Physician Assistant Studies program. The curriculum emphasizes clinical experience and interprofessional collaboration. Learn more about the program.

2. Bethel University
   Situated in nearby Arden Hills, approximately 10 miles from St. Paul, Bethel University provides a comprehensive PA program focusing on holistic patient care. The program includes extensive clinical rotations. Explore Bethel University’s PA program.

3. Augsburg University
   Located in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood of Minneapolis, about 10 miles from St. Paul, Augsburg University offers a PA program that integrates service learning and community engagement. Discover Augsburg University’s PA program.

PA Employment Opportunities in St. Paul

St. Paul hosts several major healthcare facilities offering employment opportunities for PAs:

• Regions Hospital
  Located in the Thomas-Dale neighborhood, Regions Hospital is a leading healthcare provider offering diverse medical services. Explore career opportunities at Regions Hospital.

• United Hospital
  Situated in the West Seventh neighborhood, United Hospital is part of the Allina Health system, providing comprehensive healthcare services. Check job openings at United Hospital.

• Children’s Minnesota – St. Paul Campus
  Located in the Payne-Phalen neighborhood, this facility specializes in pediatric care and offers various employment opportunities for PAs. Find careers at Children’s Minnesota.

Prerequisites for PA Programs

To enroll in a PA program, candidates typically need to meet the following prerequisites:

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Minimum GPA requirements (often 3.0 or higher)
• Completion of prerequisite coursework in subjects like biology, chemistry, and anatomy
• Healthcare experience, often requiring direct patient care hours
• Successful completion of entrance exams such as the GRE

PA Certification and Licensure Requirements in Minnesota

To practice as a PA in Minnesota, candidates must:

• Graduate from an accredited PA program
• Obtain national certification by passing the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA)
• Apply for a PA license through the Minnesota Board of Medical Practice, which includes submitting an application, paying fees, and undergoing a criminal background check

Licensure Reciprocity

Minnesota does not have specific licensure reciprocity agreements for PAs with other states. However, PAs moving to Minnesota must meet the state’s licensure requirements as outlined above.

Get Started Today

Pursuing a career as a Physician Assistant in St. Paul, Minnesota, is a commendable choice that promises a fulfilling professional journey. With the right education and training, you can join the ranks of healthcare professionals making a difference in patients’ lives. Reach out to local schools today to begin your path toward becoming a PA.