MPAS Physician Associate Studies at University of Reading

Programme overview

A four-year MPAS programme preparing students for practice as a Physician Associate while building a foundation in clinical and biomedical sciences. It is taught by the School of Chemistry, Food and Pharmacy and the School of Biological Sciences and designed with local NHS partners, with hospital and general practice placements.

Department: School of Chemistry, Food and Pharmacy; School of Biological Sciences | Duration: Full time: 4 years | Study mode: full-time (integrated master's) | Location: Reading, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Year 1 covers Professional Skills 1, Human Pathology, Fundamentals of Cell Biology, Principles of Drug Action, Introduction to Microbiology, Immunology and Physiology and Fundamentals of Microbiology. Later years include Professional Skills 2, Medicines in Healthcare, Haematology and Immunology, Clinical Knowledge Core Systems, Clinical Skills 1 and 2 and Medical Research and Enquiry.

Career pathways

Physician Associates work in medical teams under the supervision of a doctor or surgeon in GP practices, community health services and hospitals, taking medical histories, performing examinations, diagnosing illnesses, analysing test results and developing management plans.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A level: ABB including Biology and Chemistry. GCSE: Mathematics grade B (5). International Baccalaureate: 32 points overall including at least grade 5 in both higher level Biology and Chemistry. BTEC Extended Diploma: DDD; Applied Science (2016) applicants must take 2 Chemistry and 2 Biology units from the listed units. Interview required. Enhanced DBS check (non-UK candidates need a certificate of no criminal convictions or letter of good standing), occupational health questionnaire, declaration of health and up-to-date vaccinations (MMR, varicella, tuberculosis). English language: IELTS 6.5 overall with no element below 5.5. An International Foundation Programme route exists for international applicants not meeting direct entry.

Domestic applicants: GBP 10,050 a year (2027/28). Home tuition fee for 2027 entry; subject to annual increases in subsequent years of study. Source

International applicants: GBP 31,800 a year (2027/28). International fee for 2027/28; subject to annual increases in subsequent years. Source

Duration: 4 years full-time

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