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Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology: Pre-Physician Assistant (Pre-PA)
Build a strong foundation to launch your Physician Assistant career
This Pre-Physician Assistant (Pre-PA) track builds on a Bachelor of Science in Biology at Mercy College. It meticulously prepares students for admission into PA school, either at Mercy College or at other institutions. In their future roles, Physician Assistants deliver patient care under the supervision of physicians, a critical aspect emphasized in our training.
In this program, students acquire the essential knowledge and practical experiences required for advancing their education in the medical field. Traditionally, Pre-PA students are advised to maintain a science and overall GPA of 3-3.5 to meet the competitive thresholds for entrance into top PA schools. While PA program prerequisites vary across the country, Mercy College's Pre-PA program in Toledo, Ohio provides specialized coursework and experiential learning opportunities designed to enhance clinical awareness and readiness.
Accelerate Your Path to Success with Our Pre-PA Programs
This strategically designed curriculum equips students to confidently apply to Mercy College’s Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program, as well as other prominent PA programs nationally. Please note: Undergraduate financial aid does not extend into the graduate-level PA Professional Program.
Students who complete the Pre-PA track in Biology at Mercy College and meet the competitive admission criteria for the College’s MPAS program are guaranteed an interview, further enhancing their prospects for success in this field.
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Direct entry option into Mercy College's Master of Science in Physician (MPAS) Program.
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Our flexible design allows for 1:1 support from faculty and staff
Take the first step towards your Physician Assistant Career
Direct Entry Option
Explore our Pre-Physician Assistant Programs online, offering a direct entry path for high-achieving freshmen. Designed for rapid advancement into our MPAS program, these comprehensive pre-PA courses equip students with essential skills and guarantee interviews for dedicated candidates seeking a career in healthcare.
Explore Health Pathways
In addition to our dedicated Pre-PA program, Mercy College offers a variety of specialized health science pathways. Our comprehensive Biology degree serves as an ideal foundation for careers in medicine, pharmacy, chiropractic, and more. Explore all our program options and join us at an upcoming online information session to find the path that’s right for you.
Biology-Focused Curriculum
The Pre-PA Biology program at Mercy College offers a flexible design to support individual career goals in health sciences. The curriculum includes diverse math and science courses, providing comprehensive preparation for pre-physician assistant careers and beyond. In each course, students receive personal attention and 1:1 support from our experienced faculty.
Financial Aid
Mercy College is ranked among the top colleges for return on investment according to Georgetown University. Explore fee estimates and uncover how our Pre-PA track paves the way.
Join us for an information session to learn more about the program
Professional Organizations for Physician Assistants
National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA)
NCCPA is dedicated to assuring the public that certified PAs meet established standards of clinical knowledge and cognitive skills upon entry into practice and throughout their careers.
Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA)
The ARC-PA is an independent accrediting body authorized to accredit qualified PA educational programs leading to the professional credential, Physician Assistant (PA).
Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA)
PAEA works to ensure quality PA education through the development and distribution of educational services and products specifically geared toward meeting the emerging needs of PA programs, the PA profession, and the health care industry.
American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA)
AAPA advocates and educates on behalf of the profession and the patients PAs serve.
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“The Biology Program at Mercy College prepared me to excel in my healthcare career. The teachers are absolutely amazing; they know you on a personal level and will do everything they can to see you succeed. They are always available to help, not just with classwork, but also for advice for grad school, jobs, etc. The staff at Mercy does everything they can to make sure you have what you need to reach your goals. Mercy College’s Biology Program made me feel a part of something and has given me the tools and resources I need to succeed in grad school and achieve my healthcare career goals.”
Kayla VonSeggern, Physician Assistant
Bachelor of Science in Biology