FAQ
Physician Assistant FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a physician assistant.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a physician assistant: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about physician assistants
How long does it take to become a PA?
Usually a 4-year degree plus a roughly 27-month PA program.
Can PAs prescribe medications?
Yes, in every state, within their scope of practice.
Is the field growing?
Yes, BLS projects much faster than average growth.
How much does a physician assistant make?
The median annual wage for physician assistants was $135,880 ($65.33 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $99,380 and the highest 10% earned more than $190,280.
How long does it take to become a physician assistant?
Most people need about About 6–7 years after high school of training. A master’s degree from an accredited physician assistant program is required, usually after a bachelor’s degree and patient-care experience.
Do you need a degree to be a physician assistant?
Yes. BLS lists a master's degree as the typical entry-level education, and you also need a state license to practice.
Is physician assistant a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +21.1% from 2025–35 (much faster than average), with about 11,500 openings each year. Upsides include much faster-than-average growth; a common challenge is that demanding graduate program.
What skills does a physician assistant need?
Key technical skills include patient assessment, diagnosis, pharmacology, and procedures. Employers also value communication, empathy, and teamwork.
What certifications are available for physician assistants?
Common credentials include PA-C (NCCPA certification), State PA license, DEA registration, and Certificate of Added Qualifications. All states license PAs, requiring graduation from an accredited program and passing the PANCE.
Still deciding?
Try the Physician Assistant fit quiz, compare with Nurse Practitioner, or explore Physician Assistant training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-1071 (Physician assistants).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Physician assistants (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.