Job outlook
98%
of College of Health and Human Services graduates working full time have a job related to their degree
98%
of College of Health and Human Services undergraduate students had instructors who made them excited about learning
95%
of College of Health and Human Services graduates participated in experience-driven learning
Pursue a B.S. in Healthcare Services and Sciences: Physician Assistant Preparation
This program combines rigorous science coursework with healthcare systems, policy and professional development. You'll study biology, chemistry, physiology, microbiology and biochemistry while gaining a broader understanding of healthcare delivery and patient-centered care. The curriculum is designed to prepare you for admission to physician assistant graduate programs, including Western Michigan University's Physician Assistant program. Along the way, you'll strengthen your critical thinking, communication and evidence-based decision-making skills that are valued across healthcare professions.
What you'll learn
As a Physician Assistant Preparation student, you'll complete coursework in anatomy, physiology, genetics, microbiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology and biochemistry. You'll also study healthcare management, health policy, diversity and inclusion, health literacy and research methods. Together, these experiences help you develop the scientific knowledge and professional competencies needed for graduate study and future healthcare practice.
What I appreciated most about the HSS PA Prep program was the combination of rigorous coursework and opportunities to explore different healthcare settings. It confirmed my passion for becoming a physician assistant.
Where you'll be after graduation
Most students in the Physician Assistant Preparation concentration continue into graduate-level healthcare education. The program is designed to support students pursuing physician assistant programs while also providing preparation for a variety of health-related graduate and professional programs. The strong foundation in biomedical sciences, research and healthcare systems can help you pursue advanced study and healthcare careers that improve patient outcomes and community well-being.
Career pathways
- Physician Assistant (after graduate education)
- Healthcare professional programs
- Clinical research
- Healthcare administration
- Community health and health services
Making the most of your learning experience
Your learning extends beyond the classroom through a capstone experience that allows you to apply your knowledge in a professional, research or clinical setting. These experiences help you build practical skills, strengthen your professional network and demonstrate your readiness for graduate study. You'll also have access to faculty mentorship and university resources that support academic success and career planning.
What scholarships are available for the HSS Physician Assistant Preparation degree
Western Michigan University offers a range of institutional scholarships and grants to help make a high-quality education affordable, including merit-based awards, need-based grants and departmental scholarships. Many students receive financial support—99% of full-time undergraduates with financial need receive aid—and scholarships and grants do not need to be repaid. The University’s financial aid team works closely with students and families to navigate options, from admissions scholarships like the Medallion program to funding identified through Scholarship Universe, WMU’s scholarship-matching tool. With personalized support, financial resources and a commitment to access, WMU helps students identify funding opportunities and manage the cost of their education.
Additional admission requirements
Admission to the HSS-PA Preparation major occurs when students, who have previously been admitted to WMU, select the major, as long as the student has a 2.0 GPA and is not on academic probation. However, all students must raise their GPAs to 2.5 before taking the required capstone course.
