UWE Bristol - MSc Physician Associate Studies

UWE Bristol

MSc Physician Associate Studies

This innovative, intensive course will equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to become a highly competent physician associate.

Why study this course?

Physician Associates are an invaluable part of the wider multi-professional healthcare team, practicing under the supervision of a doctor to provide care for patients.  

We've developed our MSc Physician Associate Studies course in line with professional standards set by the Faculty of Physician Associates at the Royal College of Physicians. The course will equip you with the broad range of clinical skills, knowledge and professional attitudes required to practice in the medical field.

You'll develop critical thinking and clinical reasoning skills and learn how to take medical histories, perform physical examinations, request and analyse test results, diagnose illnesses and develop treatment and management plans.

Extensive clinical placement opportunities are integral to the course, giving you the chance to gain experience across a range of settings.*

Why UWE Bristol?

UWE Bristol provides a specialist healthcare campus which allows you to train alongside other healthcare professionals. You'll benefit from access to state-of-the-art simulation suites, replica wards and consultation rooms, where skills can be practiced in a realistic, controlled clinical environment.

Learn from a dedicated teaching team, comprising healthcare professionals from a range of disciplines, including UK trained and registered Physician Associates. 

Where can it take me?

There's a growing demand for Physician Associates across the UK. After qualifying as a Physician Associate, you'll practice as a Band 7 (or equivalent) in your chosen area of employment.

With further training and experience, you may choose to specialise or continue to work in a generalist field, or undertake roles in management, research or teaching.

*Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, clinical placement opportunities may be subject to change.

Entry Requirements

2:1 in a suitable science/health-related subject

4 weeks (120 hours) in an appropriate patient-facing healthcare setting, primary or secondary care

Grade C or above in English and Mathematics, or equivalent.

Minimum of a 2:1 degree or equivalent in a suitable scientific/health-related subject.

  • Life sciences: Anatomy, Biology, Physiology, Human Biology, Neuroscience, Physiology, Biological Science, Microbiology, Anatomical Science.
  • Health sciences: Allied Health Professions (Physiotherapy; Diagnostic Imaging; Radiotherapy; Paramedic Studies; Audiology), Dentistry, Nursing, Operating Department Practice, Optometry, Health Sciences*, Sport and Exercise Sciences.
  • Biomedical sciences: Biomedicine/Biomedical Science, Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Science, Medicinal Chemistry, Biochemistry, Medical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering.

Career Prospects

UWE Bristol healthcare courses have a strong record of producing students who are successful in gaining relevant work. Because you'll have undertaken placements in the South West, you'll be in a strong position to seek work locally.

Course Details

Year 1

Research methods
Foundations in Clinical Medicine 1
Foundations of Physician Associate Practice 1
Evidencing Work-Based Learning for Physician Associates

Year 2

Foundations in Clinical Medicine 2
Foundations of Physician Associate Practice 2

*The information’s are correct at the time of publishing, however it may change if university makes any changes after we have published the information. While we try our best to provide correct information, It is advisable to call us or visit university website for up to date information.

Are you ready to start building your future?

Contact our admission counseller and get a free consultation.