Academics

Recommended Pre-Physician Assistant Coursework 

The PMHSC uses the Wayne State University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences program as a baseline for recommended pre-PA courses, grade minimums [B (3.0)], and expiration timeline (six years). Specific rules and requirements for other schools can be found by visiting the individual Program Websites section. Students are encouraged to use the Pre-PA Planning Guide to track their progress.

Biology 

One course in microbiology. 

Two courses in anatomy and physiology.

One additional course in human biology will be chosen according to the major, minor, and graduate programs of interest.

Examples include:  

*Other courses as approved.

Please note: Graduate-level coursework cannot be considered for prerequisite courses. 

Chemistry 

Chemistry is the most challenging coursework to plan for pre-physician assistant students. There are two chemistry tracks available to Wayne State University undergraduates. Coursework should be planned with respect to a student's major, programs of interest, and available study time. These pre-requisite courses will be listed on program websites as General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry and/or Biochemistry. 

Survey Sequence (option available to Psychology, Kinesiology, and other non-science majors)

*Available Winter semester only 

Science Major Sequence (required for Biology, Neuroscience, Nutrition, and other science majors, strongly encouraged for non-science majors)

Please note: These courses must be planned with respect to the Chemistry department prerequisite rules, even if not specifically required by physician assistant programs. 

Psychology 

One course in human development. 

*Must be a lifespan credit; child development will not cover this requirement, and a general psychology class only works for some schools.

Human Nutrition 

One course. 

Non-Science Courses 

*OR any other intermediate-level writing class.

Program Websites

A successful candidate applies to about eight programs. There are eleven physician assistant programs in the state of Michigan. While the PMHSC works to track updates and changes for each one, each potential candidate is responsible for learning the requirements for the programs where they will be applying. There is a quick comparison guide that shares basic information on Michigan programs such as minimum grades, minimum contact hours, and required tests.   

All pre-physician assistant students are also encouraged to use the paeaonline.org website as a resource for learning more about the profession and programs around the country.  

Central Michigan University 
Concordia University - Ann Arbor 
Eastern Michigan University 
Grand Valley State University 
Lawrence Technological University 
Michigan State University 
University of Detroit-Mercy 
University of Michigan - Flint 
Wayne State University 
Western Michigan University 

Grades 

Programs typically require either a B (3.0) or C (2.0) minimum in all prerequisite courses. Grade point averages for physician assistant applicants may be as high or higher than medical school applicants. Students are encouraged to use all available resources to support their learning, including: 

• Academic Success Center 
• Chemistry Learning Center 
• Math Resource Center  
• Psychology Academic Support Services (PASS) 
• STEM Commons 
• WRT Zone