Master of Physician Assistant Studies

About this programme

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. In the first year, students engage in three primary courses that repeat throughout the fall, winter, and spring/summer terms. The second year is characterized by an immersive clinical experience, allowing students to apply their knowledge