Physician Assistant Programs in Birmingham, Alabama

Get your Physician Assistant degree in Birmingham, Alabama - online & campus-based options available.

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Physician Assistant in Birmingham, Alabama

Embarking on a career as a Physician Assistant (PA) in Birmingham, Alabama, offers a rewarding opportunity to engage in patient care and work alongside healthcare professionals. PAs are vital members of medical teams, providing diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive healthcare services. This guide outlines the educational paths, local PA programs, and certification requirements necessary to become a PA in Birmingham.

About Birmingham

Birmingham, Alabama, is a vibrant city known for its rich history and cultural landmarks. As the largest city in Alabama, Birmingham offers a dynamic environment for aspiring healthcare professionals. The city is home to a variety of neighborhoods, each with its unique charm, such as Five Points South and Avondale. For more information about Birmingham, visit the official city website.

PA Programs in Birmingham, Alabama

Birmingham hosts several reputable institutions offering PA programs. Here are some options for aspiring PAs:

1. University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)
   • Located in the Southside neighborhood, UAB offers a comprehensive Physician Assistant Studies Program. The program emphasizes clinical practice and prepares students for the Physician Assistant National Certification Examination (PANCE).
2. Samford University
   • Situated in the Homewood area, Samford University provides a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. The program focuses on developing clinical skills and offers extensive hands-on training. Visit their PA program page for more details.
3. Faulkner University (Montgomery, AL)
   • Although located approximately 90 miles from Birmingham, Faulkner University offers a PA program that emphasizes a holistic approach to healthcare. Learn more about their program here.

PA Employment Opportunities in Birmingham

Birmingham’s healthcare sector is robust, providing numerous employment opportunities for PAs. Key healthcare facilities include:

• UAB Hospital
  • As one of the largest academic medical centers in the nation, UAB Hospital offers diverse career opportunities for PAs. Explore their employment page for current openings.
• St. Vincent’s Birmingham
  • Located in the Highland Park neighborhood, St. Vincent’s Birmingham is part of Ascension Health and provides a wide range of medical services. Visit their careers page for more information.
• Brookwood Baptist Medical Center
  • Situated in the Homewood area, Brookwood Baptist Medical Center is known for its comprehensive healthcare services. Check their employment opportunities for PA positions.

Prerequisites for PA Programs

To enroll in a PA program, candidates typically need:

• A bachelor’s degree, often with coursework in biology, chemistry, math, and anatomy.
• Completion of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).
• Healthcare experience, which may include volunteer work or employment in a medical setting.

PA Certification and Licensure Requirements in Alabama

In Alabama, PAs must meet specific certification and licensure requirements:

• Graduate from an Accredited PA Program: Programs must be accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA).
• Pass the PANCE: Administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA), the PANCE is essential for certification.
• Obtain Licensure from the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners (ALBME): This involves submitting an application, NCCPA certification, and a registration agreement with a supervising physician. For more details, visit the ALBME website.

Licensure Reciprocity

Currently, Alabama does not have specific licensure reciprocity agreements with other states. PAs moving to Alabama must meet the state’s licensure requirements.

Get Started Today

Pursuing a career as a Physician Assistant in Birmingham, Alabama, is a commendable choice with numerous educational and professional opportunities. Begin your journey by exploring local PA programs and reaching out to schools for more information. Take the first step toward a fulfilling career in healthcare today.