MSc Physician Associate Studies (Top-Up)

Programme code	7701
Duration	1 year
Course type	Part-time
Study location	ҹè��Ƶ Distance UK

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This is a distance-learning, top-up programme for students who have already graduated with a Postgraduate Diploma in Physician Assistant/Associate Studies from a UK or Irish university. This programme is designed so that it can be completed alongside clinical, and other, commitments.

Key features

Top-up your PgDip Physician Associate Studies to a full masters whilst continue to work clinically and manage other commitments.
Enhance your knowledge of research methodology and apply evidence in the context of clinical case management.
Be supported online with a range of learning resources, webinars and individual and group tutorials.

Course details

Year 1
The course begins in September and is studied part-time over 12 months, via distance learning. The programme comprises two level 7 modules. Students will begin by undertaking the module Research Methods in Healthcare (CLE721DL) before commencing the second module, Evidence in Practice (PAS728DL), later in the academic year.

Core modules

CLE721DL
Research Methods in Healthcare 20 credits

This module aims to provide the students with increased understanding and knowledge of the research methods and statistics, to enable them to critically evaluate, synthesise and reflect on research evidence, to practice. Students will be introduced to a wide range of quantitative and qualitative methods, primary and secondary research methods, equipping them with a basic understanding of the underlying principles of quantitative and qualitative research.

100% Coursework

PAS728DL
Evidence in Practice

This distance learning module allows students to apply and expand their knowledge of evidence-based practice in the context of clinical management, and to appreciate the need for continuous clinical evaluation and improvement.

^{The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.}

Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

The following programme specification represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change:

MSc Physician Associate Top Up Programme Specification 2024 25 7701

Entry requirements

Applicants must have either a Post-graduate Diploma Physician Associate Studies awarded by a UK or Irish university and a pass in the RCP Faculty of Physician Associates National Certification Examination for Physician Associates.

Applicants must have GCSE (or equivalent) Grade C or above in Maths and English and will normally be employed as a Physician Associate (PA-R).

International

Please view the country guides for further information regarding the equivalency of your degree. International applicants will be required to provide evidence of their English language ability, for example by achieving an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element) or equivalent, see our English language requirements .

Pre-sessional English language courses are available if you do not meet these requirements.

Fees, costs and funding

	2025-2026	2026-2027
Home	To be confirmed	To be confirmed
International	To be confirmed	To be confirmed
Part time (Home)	To be confirmed	To be confirmed

Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per a number of credits.

Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

PLEASE NOTE:

The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.

We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.

Additional costs

Please be aware that there may be additional costs to undertaking your studies, for example printing of course materials. If you have any questions regarding these costs please contact pduadmissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

How to apply

Applications for this programme need to be completed through the online form.
In addition applicants will also be required to submit:

References from two referees – ideally one academic and one work.
A copy of your PgDip Physicians Associate or PgDip Associate Studies certificate obtained at a UK or Irish University

Any questions please contact:

Email: pduadmissions@plymouth.ac.uk

Professional Development Unit
Intercity Place
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Tel: +44 1752 586951

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