The Master in Physician Assistant Studies program at the Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine provides a broad, interdisciplinary education that will prepare students for collaborative practice as a physician assistant.
The program fosters an environment enhanced by diversity, clinical innovation, and research while preparing socially accountable, community-based physicians, scientists and health professionals. Students will build leadership capabilities to understand the importance of communicating effectively with patients and healthcare teams.
Program highlights
- 27-Month Program
- 7 Clerkship Rotations: Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Surgery, OB/GYN, Pediatric, Emergency Medicine, Psychiatry
- NeighborhoodHELP Program Household Visits
- Interprofessional Workshops with Multiple Healthcare Disciplines
Information sessions
MPAS Information Sessions are held on the first Tuesday of each month at 12:00 pm and on the second Tuesday of each month at 3:00 pm via Zoom.
Meet our Paws Up Students:
Colton Danforth
My name is Colton, and I was born in Okinawa, Japan on a U.S military base. My dad served in the air force for 21 years, and our family moved just about every four years around the world. I graduated from FIU in 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in biology and a minor in chemistry.
Why did you choose FIU MPAS?
FIU has a special place in my heart as I had a great undergraduate experience with plenty of support and encouragement from professors along the way. FIU’s dedication to students and community was a major draw that is exemplified in the NeighborhoodHELP.
How would you describe FIU MPAS?
The program is challenging, but the faculty and students make it very manageable.
What is your favorite part of FIU and/or the FIU MPAS program?
I love the nature preserve at FIU. It's a great escape from the busy city life where I can relax and take in the beauty of South Florida. My favorite part of the program is how close we have become over the last two years; my classmates feel like family.
What advice would you give a prospective student?
Join your school's Pre-PA club! I was a part of FIU’s and it was a great resource for volunteer hours, shadowing opportunities, and information on applying to schools. We also had guest speakers from programs tell us what to expect during PA school (Thanks Dr.Ley!). PA school is challenging, but if you give it your time and focus you will get through it!
Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
I see myself in a family medicine practice taking care of patients and teaching future PA students. I also see my wife, dog, and plenty of time to travel the world.
Tany Grant
My name is Tany Grant, and I was born in La Ceiba, Honduras. I immigrated to the U.S. when I was nine and obtained DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) status in 2013. I graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a bachelor's degree in biology and a minor in Spanish. While still in high school, I started working towards becoming a PA and taking college courses as a dual-enrolled student.
Why did you choose FIU MPAS?
Diversity and inclusion are important to me, and I felt at FIU, I'd feel a sense of belonging. I also wanted to live in a place that would remind me of La Ceiba. I knew PA school would be stressful, but I could always find comfort in Miami's climate, the beach, nature, and people.
How would you describe FIU MPAS?
The program is challenging--I've learned a ton about medicine and so much more about myself. Each professor has a story about what it took to become a doctor or a PA; they never fail to inspire. Everyone will push you to bring out the best in you and make you the best PA you can be.
What is your favorite part of FIU and/or the FIU MPAS program?
There are so many people from different countries. I believe the more diverse a setting, the more well-rounded providers can become. Even the professors come from different backgrounds. They provide perspective about the medical field and what it took for them to overcome their own obstacles.
What advice would you give a prospective student?
Becoming a PA requires the Mamba Mentality—constantly trying to be the best version of yourself. Spend time before PA school doing the things you like; do something you've always wanted to do and spend time with friends and family. Once PA school starts…it will be showtime!
Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
I see myself working in a clinic or a hospital, but I am still determining what specialty. I am excited for clinicals to see what appeals most to me.