<p>Hi everyone, I'm interest in becoming a physician assistant (PA). I understand there are basically two tracks to becoming a PA now: The Masters program, which seems to be more common and the BS program. Both of these are PA programs. Any info or cool stuff people know about becoming a PA would be great! Does anyone know how I would go about arranging shadowing a PA? Also, does anyone know which track, the MS or BS PA program is "better"? Any opinions or info that anyone has is great. I've also looked into Pre-Physisican Assistant programs. Does anyone know which school are particularly strong in preparing people to be PAs. Does anyone know any info about pre-PA stuff? Thanks for all of your help!!</p>
<p>Just curious, why exactly do you want to become a PA? I know a PA and he told me that he works more hours than the doctor he works for and gets paid 1/4 the amount. Why not just be an actual doctor?</p>
<p>Thats not true. PA's have more flexible hours, maybe its just the physician the person you knwo works for. PAs also only have to take 2 years after BA (i think) rather than 8+</p>
<p>Much of the work hours a PA has to cover, how they are paid, as well as the amount of autonomy they receive is HIGHLY, HIGHLY dependent on the physician they work under. </p>
<p>Most PA programs are between 24-30 months. There is a growing number that are entering specialty fields, and because they don't have to worry about residency and only do basic procedures that cross multiple fields, they can switch specialty fields if they desire (it's not always easy, but is possible).</p>
<p>do physician assistants take the MCAT?</p>
<p>No. Usually take the GRE.</p>