Master in Physician Assistant Studies

Becoming a physician assistant offers a unique opportunity to impact people’s lives. It is a dynamic, challenging, and rewarding career with the flexibility to practice in nearly any medical specialty.

Our Master in Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program, accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, Inc., program trains highly skilled physician assistants in primary care. Our commitment to excellence is proven by the success of our graduates.

We emphasize patient-centered care and community outreach, ensuring our graduates have the skills and professionalism to collaborate effectively with physicians and other health professionals.

Learn more about the program

Program highlights

27-month program
Simulation center with the latest technologies
Anatomy and 3D printing lab
Patient-centered care and community outreach activities, including NeighborhoodHELP household visits
Interprofessional workshops with multiple health care disciplines
Partnerships with top regional health care systems for quality local clerkships
7 clerkship rotations: family medicine, internal medicine, surgery, OB/GYN, pediatric, emergency medicine, psychiatry

Information sessions

MPAS Information Sessions are held on the first Wednesday of each month at 12:00 pm and on the third Wednesday of each month at 3:00 pm via Zoom.

MPAS Tours

MPAS tours take place on the first Friday of March, April, May, June, September, October, November, and December. These tours are reserved for prospective students. To secure your spot, please RSVP at paschool@fiu.edu.

Meet our Paws Up Students

Edgar Ferreiro
BS in Biology
Florida International University
Before PA school, Edgar worked as a pharmacy technician, gaining valuable insight into medications and treatment variations.

Why Edgar chose FIU
I’ve been part of the FIU community since arriving from Cuba, with family members graduating from the university. FIU’s commitment to underserved communities, the NHELP program, and disability awareness drew me in.
Describe FIU MPAS
Challenging yet rewarding. Over time, you refine study strategies and time management. The faculty provides unwavering support to help students succeed.
Favorite part of FIU MPAS?
My classmates—they’ve become my PA family.
Advice for prospective students?
Celebrate small wins and embrace setbacks as learning opportunities. Excellence comes from growth, not perfection. Lean on your classmates—they make the journey unforgettable.
Future plans?
I hope to work in a fast-paced ER but will use my rotations to discover where my strengths lie.

Melissa Arencibia Diaz
BS in Family, Youth, and Community Sciences
University of Florida
During her gap years, Melissa worked at various hospitals as an ER scribe and as a medical assistant at a dermatology clinic.

Why Melissa chose FIU
FIU was my top choice to stay close to family for support. The Neighborhood HELP program stood out, offering hands-on, at-home patient care. I also wanted to serve my Miami community during clinical rotations. Choosing FIU aligned perfectly with my goals and values.
Describe FIU MPAS
FIU MPAS constantly improves, creating a supportive, home-like environment. Faculty prioritize both academic and personal well-being, meeting with students regularly. The program is fast-paced but manageable with good time management.
Favorite part of FIU MPAS?
My cohort—we’re a family. We support, motivate, and celebrate each other while making learning enjoyable.
Advice for prospective students?
Trust the process. Time management is key, and self-care is essential. Surround yourself with a strong support system and embrace the learning curve—it’s a beautiful journey.
Future plans?
I see myself in family medicine or dermatology but remain open as I explore more specialties.