PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATE STUDIES at University of Sussex

Course Overview

This innovative course provides students with the knowledge, professional and clinical skills to work as a PA. The integrated curriculum borrows from the successful undergraduate course at BSMS with augmentation through intensive discussion of clinical cases in small groups, and includes significant time in local clinical placements and simulation facilities.

Key areas of study

• Integrated curriculum with longitudinal clinical placements in primary care throughout Year 1
• Anatomy delivered using prosection
• Access to learning materials from the undergraduate medical course 
• Simulated-based learning throughout the curriculum
• Clinical reasoning strategies for diagnosis in case-based learning 
• Rotational attachments in local NHS trusts in clinical specialities throughout Year 2

Career Opportunities

Qualification with the MSc in Physician Associate Studies and successful completion of the national examination will allow alumnae to work in a variety of healthcare settings including general medicine, paediatrics, and in community settings.

Following graduation from the course, and subsequent completion of the Physician Associate National Examinations, PAs can expect starting salaries of Agenda for Change Band 7. Progression thereafter will be dependent on competency, attributes and opportunities to progress to higher pay scales.

As the PA role has been identified as a key emergent profession within the NHS, it is envisaged a large number of job vacancies will become available locally and nationally in the coming years.