Course Summary
The integration of theory and practice is deemed fundamental to clinical learning. The theory is delivered via blended learning with a mix of lectures, small group tutorials and problem-based learning at RCSI’s St Stephen’s Green Campus. Your clinical experience will be in both hospital and community attachments.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must hold a level 8 Health Science or science-related degree with a minimum classification 2.2 award or equivalent qualification.
The MSc in Physician Associate Studies is a postgraduate qualification that includes extensive clinical placement. To be eligible for acceptance to and continuation on the programme, you must hold either a current valid EU/UK* passport or a current valid visa which entitles you to work in Ireland.
*UK citizens are required to make contact via email at [email protected] in advance on submitting an application to discuss your current status.
Please note
We are currently training and qualifying physician associates to work and remain in the Irish healthcare system.
All RCSI students are classified as healthcare workers and vaccination against COVID-19 is strongly recommended.
Failure to maintain either your EU passport or valid work visa during the programme would render you ineligible to remain on the programme.
Applications for our January 2024 cohort are now closed. Applications for our January 2025 cohort will open in April 2024; please keep an eye on our website for more information.
As part of the selection process applicants are required to submit the following supporting documentation:
- Copy of your passport, showing personal details.
- Personal statement of no more than 1,000 words outlining why you are interested in pursuing a career as a physician associate and why you feel your application has merit.
- Two reference letters, one of which must be an academic reference. Reference letters can be uploaded with your application, or sent directly to [email protected] by the referee.
- Certified, or stamped copy of academic transcripts (or interim transcripts).
- CV outlining your education qualifications and work experience.
- Copy of an academic IELTS examination or equivalent with an overall score of 7.0 and no individual band below 6.5 (for candidates whose first language is not English). This certificate must be issued with at least two years validity.
- You may also send any additional information that you feel is relevant to your application.
In addition, candidates must be available for interview. For more information, please contact [email protected].
Garda vetting
Garda vetting is required as a standard part of the registration process. Applicants who accept an offer to register on the course will begin the Garda vetting process prior to registration. All students are provisionally registered until they have received clearance from the Garda authorities. Students who fail to secure Garda clearance or who present with serious criminal convictions may be discontinued.
Please contact [email protected] if you have any queries.
Application Details
How to apply
Applications for the January 2024 intake of the MSc in Physician Associate Studies programme will open on 12th April 2023.
The closing date for applications is 15th August 2023.
Please note: Our open events will be held on 24th March and 1st June 2023 for those interested in learning more about the MSc Physician Associate Studies programme. Further details to follow.
Please contact [email protected] if you have any queries.
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Career Progression
While all PA students hold a foundation degree in health science or a science-related area, they come from a diverse range of backgrounds.
Some have previously worked in healthcare, others are from a purely academic background, and all find life as a PA student equal parts demanding and fulfilling.
If you’re interested in a career as a PA and playing a central role in patient care, read and watch some of our current students and graduates stories below and find out first-hand about day-to-day life as a PA.