Physician Assistant Programs in Minneapolis, Minnesota

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Becoming a Physician Assistant in Minneapolis, Minnesota

Becoming a Physician Assistant (PA) in Minneapolis, Minnesota, offers a rewarding career path in the healthcare sector. PAs are vital members of medical teams, providing diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive healthcare services. This guide explores the educational paths, local PA programs, employment opportunities, and certification requirements for aspiring PAs in Minneapolis.

About Minneapolis

Minneapolis, the largest city in Minnesota, is known for its vibrant arts scene, diverse neighborhoods, and beautiful parks and lakes. As part of the Twin Cities, alongside Saint Paul, Minneapolis offers a dynamic environment for healthcare professionals. For more information about the city, visit the official Minneapolis website.

PA Programs in Minneapolis, Minnesota

Minneapolis hosts several esteemed institutions offering PA programs. Here are three notable options:

1. Augsburg University
   Located in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood, Augsburg University offers a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. The program emphasizes primary care and service to underserved populations. More information can be found on the Augsburg University PA Program page.

2. St. Catherine University
   Situated in the Highland Park neighborhood, St. Catherine University provides a Master of Physician Assistant Studies program. The curriculum focuses on interprofessional education and clinical practice. Visit the St. Catherine University PA Program page for details.

3. Bethel University
   Located in Arden Hills, a suburb of Minneapolis, Bethel University offers a Master of Science in Physician Assistant program. The program is designed to prepare students for a variety of healthcare settings. More information is available on the Bethel University PA Program page.

PA Employment Opportunities in Minneapolis

Minneapolis boasts numerous healthcare facilities offering employment opportunities for PAs:

• Hennepin Healthcare
  Located in the Elliot Park neighborhood, Hennepin Healthcare is a comprehensive healthcare system providing a wide range of services. Explore career opportunities on the Hennepin Healthcare Careers page.

• Abbott Northwestern Hospital
  Situated in the Phillips West neighborhood, Abbott Northwestern Hospital is part of Allina Health and is known for its specialty care services. Visit the Allina Health Careers page for job listings.

• University of Minnesota Medical Center
  Located in the Prospect Park neighborhood, this facility is part of M Health Fairview and offers diverse opportunities for PAs. Check the M Health Fairview Careers page for current openings.

Prerequisites for PA Programs

To enroll in a PA program, candidates typically need:

• A bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA (often 3.0 or higher).
• Completion of prerequisite courses such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and chemistry.
• Healthcare experience, often requiring direct patient care hours.
• Successful completion of the GRE or other entrance exams, if required by the program.

PA Certification and Licensure Requirements in Minnesota

To practice as a PA in Minnesota, the following steps are necessary:

• Education and Training: Obtain a master’s degree from an accredited PA program, including 2,000 hours of clinical rotations.
• Certification: Pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) to become PA-C.
• State Licensing: Submit an application to the Minnesota Board of Medical Practice, including fees, verification of education, NCCPA certification, and recommendations. Complete a background check and training on opioids and controlled substances.

For detailed instructions, visit the Minnesota Board of Medical Practice.

Licensure Reciprocity

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

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Physician Assistant in Minneapolis is a fulfilling journey. With robust educational programs and diverse employment opportunities, aspiring PAs are well-positioned to make a significant impact in healthcare. Contact a local PA program today to begin your path toward becoming a PA.