Course summary

Eager to work in the field of medicine? Want to make a difference in an emerging healthcare role? Keen to learn through a combination of teaching and practical placements? Training to become a physician associate at Edge Hill University could be for you. In our physician associate studies course, you’ll discover everything you need to know about providing patient care under the supervision of a doctor. Learn how to interview and examine patients. Conduct clinical examinations. Order and interpret diagnostic tests. Make decisions about patient management and therapy. The past ten years has seen a growing demand for newly-qualified physician associates within the NHS – in acute, primary care and mental health services. You’ll graduate as a flexible and adaptable practitioner, eligible to sit the national exam, set by the Faculty of Physician Associates (FPA). You must pass this exam before you can apply for provisional professional registration. Please note, regulation of physician associates by the General Medical Council is expected by 2024. Some requirements are therefore under review. What you'll study Our MSc Physician Associate Studies covers five central themes that are vital to this field. The five central themes are:

• Evidence-based medicine – analyse different research strategies and methodologies for conducting research. You’ll learn how to carry out a literature review, and study the planning, implementation and reporting of research activity.

• Professional behaviours and capabilities – focus on the professional identity, ethics and values essential for the job. You’ll cover a range of subjects, including role development, teamwork, leadership, protected characteristics, and supporting vulnerable groups.

• Clinical sciences – explore the underpinning scientific theory for the presentation of common diseases. You’ll look at the bioscience behind investigative techniques and management principles, including anatomy, physiology, immunology and pharmacology.

• Clinical care – discover day-to-day aspects of contemporary clinical practice. From managing clinical data to human factors in clinical decision-making. Diagnostic errors and patient safety to clinical governance, public health and critical reflection.

• Preparation for practice – comprehensive first-hand experience of clinical history taking and examination will prepare you for delivering care and treatment. You’ll learn how to conduct and interpret a differential diagnosis, prescribe medication, and action patient management plans. We’ll also hone your decision-making, communication and record keeping skills.