Physician Assistant Studies (M.S.)

Master of Science, Physician Assistant Studies Plan B (non-thesis): Total 104 credit hours

Typical Class Schedule

The graduation requirements for Physician Assistant are subject to change. Please contact the Physician Assistant Studies Department for verification of current requirements and timeframe for completing the program.

Student Learning Outcomes

1. Obtain a complete and accurate medical history from multiple types of patients in different types of settings. 
2. Write a complete and accurate medical history from multiple types of patients in different types of settings. 
3. Perform a complete or problem focused physical exam on multiple patient types of patients in different settings. 
4. Clearly and effectively communicate with patients, their families, and other members of the health care team. 
5. Demonstrate knowledge of the structures of the human body and how they function at the physiology level.  
6. Demonstrate knowledge of the epidemiology, etiologies, risk factors, and underlying pathophysiologic process of medical conditions. 
7. Demonstrate knowledge of the principles of drug absorption, distribution, action, toxicity and elimination.  
8. Construct a list of differential diagnoses to formulate a final diagnosis by interpreting information derived from the history, physical exam, diagnostics, and other patient related information.   
9. Demonstrate the ability to perform common technical procedures. 
10. Demonstrate patient evaluation, monitoring, diagnostic/therapeutics, counseling and appropriate referral skills. 
11. Appraise and critically evaluate medical literature for the benefit of patients. 
12. Discuss the health care delivery system and the role of the physician assistant 
13. Demonstrate ethical behavior and professional conduct. 

Courses or Programs Leading to Professional Licensure or Certification

The University of South Dakota as of July 1, 2020, cannot confirm whether any particular course or program meets educational prerequisites for professional licensure or certification in states other than South Dakota. If you are planning to apply for licensure/certification in a state other than South Dakota after completion of your program, contact the academic department offering your major or CDE at 605.658.6152 or by email at cde@usd.edu. USD is working to comply with these requirements and will provide up-to-date information as it becomes available.

If your learning placement course (internship, externship, clinical, rotation, practicum, independent study, study away, etc.) or your online course will be taken outside South Dakota, please reference the State Authorization webpage below.

Information about State Authorization & Professional Licensure