Careers in the Licensed Professions
Physician Assistant Print Profile 
Physician assistants (“PA”) provide health care in the practice area of their supervising physicians. For example, a PA that is supervised by a physician specializing in family practice would provide services in that area as well. Physician assistants perform many of the medical services provided by their physician supervisors. This includes:
- diagnosing and treating human disease, pain, or injury
- educating patients about their health
- prescribing treatments for diagnosed health issues
Education |
Complete high school or its equivalent AND a Department-registered physician assistant licensure program, or the equivalent, at the master’s level (effective 2020) |
Examination |
Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination |
Visit the Office of the Professions for a listing of all options and requirements.
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Salary and Projected Growth
- Median salary: $108,610 in the U.S., $119,090 in NY
- Salary range: $93,860 - $131,620
- Project growth: much faster than average
Where Could I Work?
- Medical offices
- Hospitals, healthcare facilities, and healthcare organizations
- Military and government facilities
Your Interests and Abilities
- Basic and medical sciences
- Perform medical procedures
- Manual and technical skills
Professional Skills
- Concern for others
- Attention to detail
- Analytical thinking
- Communication
What Interests You?
Match your interests and personality to career options! Explore a free career tool at mynextmove.org/explore/ip
: try searching for mentoring programs—talk to a physician assistant about what they do and how they got started!
