Master of Physician Assistant Studies

The Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program at the University of Calgary aspires to empower students with essential knowledge and skills, fostering an inclusive community of collaborative and compassionate Physician Assistants (PA). Our mission focuses on lifelong learning and ethical practice, aiming to advance structural competence and diversity in health care, ultimately preparing graduates for transformative roles in the evolving health care landscape of Alberta and beyond. 

The program is a 93-unit, course-based, graduate degree program that is the first of its kind in Alberta. The program educates PAs — highly skilled health-care professionals who work under the supervision of licensed medical practitioners in a variety of settings including hospitals, health-care clinics and physician offices. 

The program will provide students with a holistic educational experience that will not only train technically competent practitioners, but also prepare them to enter practice aware of the social determinants of health and equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (EDIA) issues in the health-care system, as well as the health care needs of specific populations in Canada. MPAS graduates will be eligible for the national PA certification exam and qualify for registration with the College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta.

Completing this program

In the first year, students engage in three primary courses that repeat throughout the fall, winter, and spring/summer terms. 

Course included are: 

• PA Fundamentals: This course lays the groundwork for a comprehensive understanding of essential clinical knowledge, covering a broad range of topics necessary for effective clinical practice. 
• Foundations of Practice: This course is designed to provide students with a deep dive into the multifaceted aspects of healthcare practice. It focuses on developing a holistic understanding of patient care, ethical considerations, and the interprofessional dynamics within healthcare. 
• Clinical Skills: A critical component of the first year, this course equips students with practical skills necessary for clinical practice. It involves hands-on training and simulation exercises to prepare students for real-life patient interactions and procedures.

The second year is characterized by an immersive clinical experience, allowing students to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings. The year includes core clinical rotations, two elective rotations, and a longitudinal Foundations of Practice half-day.

Outcomes

Graduates of the MPAS program are well-prepared to enter clinical practice as Physician Assistants across various healthcare settings. They can expect to engage in patient care, diagnosis, management, and interprofessional collaboration within the scope of the PA profession in Canada. 

Note: To practice as a PA in Canada, graduates must pass the national PA Entry to Practice Certification Examination (PA Cert Exam), written upon the successful completion of a Canadian PA program recognized by the Physician Assistant Certification Council of Canada (PACCC).