About the Program
The Mississippi State University-Meridian Master of Physician Assistant Studies Program (MSU-MPAS) is a rigorous 29 month, state-sponsored program that recruits adult learners who have prior experience in health care. Our mission is to prepare PAs to practice and promote empathetic, primary care-focused medicine that serves the culturally diverse state of Mississippi.
Mississippi State University-Meridian initiated the development of the Master of Physician Assistant Studies Program after several years of needs assessment and after community support was determined to be strong. Located in Meridian, Mississippi, the program has access to several highly esteemed Mississippi medical systems.
Admission to the Program is extremely competitive. The MSU MPAS will accept up to 30 students in each cohort. Applicants invited for interview must visit MSU-Meridian to participate in an on-campus interview. Invitation to interview does not imply acceptance to the program.
Physician assistants play a critical role delivering high quality, affordable healthcare and more than ever before, they fill the gaps in healthcare, meeting the needs of our nation and the world. The MSU MPAS Program is the perfect place to gain the skills, knowledge, and experience to prepare you to practice in this exciting, ever evolving profession. We offer a Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree for individuals seeking to become physician assistants.
The MSU MPAS program begins in January, and is 29 months in duration. The first year, which comprises the didactic portion of the program, is devoted to classroom study. Students attend courses five days a week during this time.
During the final phase of the program, students complete nine individual clinical rotations at sites predominately located throughout Mississippi. The clinical rotations include internal medicine, family medicine, women’s health, pediatrics, behavioral health, emergency medicine, general surgery, and elective clinical experiences of the students choosing.
Employment
Because of the program’s rigor and intensity, employment while a student is highly discouraged.
Vision and Mission
The Mississippi State University-Meridian Master of Physician Assistant Studies Program will graduate health care professionals who will be leaders in the Mississippi health care community, dedicated to increasing access to care and to actively addressing health care disparities in the state.
The Mississippi State University-Meridian Master of Physician Assistant Studies Program will educate highly qualified, competent, health care providers who will increase access to care and provide primary care services to the diverse citizens of Mississippi.