Medical Studies, BS Only Track, BS

Balancing strong preparation in the life sciences with an intensive year of pre-clinical education, Lenoir-Rhyne University’s Bachelor of Science in Medical Studies (BSMS) provides students with nationally-normed science prerequisites for pursuing physician assistant education or other medically based programs.

Please note that the Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Lenoir-Rhyne University does not accept AP courses in place of required science courses.

Admission Requirements

As a provisionally accepted undergraduate in the Bachelor of Science in Medical Studies program, students will have the opportunity for entry into the Lenoir-Rhyne University Masters of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program if they have met all of the requirements and have successfully completed the required three years of the BSMS program at Lenoir-Rhyne University, which includes a successful interview with the admissions committee of the MSPAS program.

The minimum criteria for admission into the Bachelor of Science in Medical Studies as a freshman student are:

• Class rank in the top third of the high school graduating class and/or a cumulative 3.3 grade point average and a 3.3 science GPA (The GPA requirement is 3.3 but the program reserves the right to accept candidates on a case by case basis who possess extraordinary qualifications)
• No less than a “B” in math and science courses taken in high school
• Minimum combined SAT score of 1160 for Critical Reading and Math combined or equivalent ACT composite score (24)

Maintaining Status in the 3+2 program:

• Students in the 3+2 program will be reviewed and evaluated annually to determine if they qualify for continuation in the program
• Maintaining 3.3 or better overall GPA and science GPA
• A minimum of a “B” in all science and math courses in the medical studies curriculum. Students should strive for a “B” or better in all courses.
• Maintenance of good academic standing as defined by the university
• No record of university disciplinary sanction
• Lenoir-Rhyne 3+2 Program students that do not have a background and experience in a patient care related health science profession, are required to obtain training and experience through a certificate course/program in an area such as: Phlebotomist, Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA), Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT), Patient Care Technician etc. prior to entry into the MPAS Program.
• At the end of the third year the students in the BSMS curriculum go through a final review (final assessment of grades, meeting all other requirements and interview with the MPAS Program Admissions Committee); if all parts are satisfied, they are eligible to enter the MPAS Program in 4th year. If they fail to meet the requirements, they continue into 4th year of BS degree
• Complete Practicum (5 credits): To be taken in the fall semester after successful completion of 3 year Pre-PA Medical Studies course requirements. This is to be a practical experience designed to prepare selected students for entry into the Masters of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program. Students are to work a minimum of 20 hours per week utilizing the skills learned in their required certification program/course of study. Must be able to demonstrate their exposure to a practicing PA through their employment or obtain 50 hours of shadowing. Students must complete a minimum of 200 hours of volunteer work with an agency that provides health related services i.e. health fairs, health screening activities, free clinic, homeless program, prevention and health education etc. Complete assigned readings and videos. Complete a written midterm and final examination on the assigned material, as well as an observed structured clinical evaluation (OSCE). Course is open only to students who have successfully completed the undergraduate portion of the Pre-PA 3+2 program. Course fees are attached. Pass/Fail only.

Progression into Physician Assistant Program (4th year)

• Progression from the third year of the 3+ 2 undergraduate component to the didactic year of the MSPAS curriculum is open to provisionally accepted students of the undergraduate component who have met, or will have met, by the end of the third year prior entering the PA program the following prerequisites:
• Successful completion of all core curriculum, science and electives courses prior to entrance into didactic coursework
• A minimum grade of B for all science courses.
• A minimum average of 3.3 in required science courses.
• A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.3
• Successful completion of the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) with a minimum score of 301.
• Maintenance of good academic standing as defined by the university
• No record of university disciplinary sanction
• Satisfactory Level 1 Criminal Background Check and Drug Screen
• Successful completion of an interview with positive recommendation from principal faculty.
• Submission of three letters of recommendation from: a healthcare provider (MD, NP, PA), Professor, and an employer or coach.
• Produce evidence training and experience through a certificate course/program in an area such as: Phlebotomist, Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA), Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT), and Patient Care  Technician etc. prior to entry into the MPAS Program.
• Successful completion of the required practicum course.
• A candidate for the Master of Science in Physician assistant Studies program must have abilities and skills in five areas: observation, communication, motor, intellectual, and behavioral /social. To meet requirements for entrance and progression in the MSPAS program, candidates and students must demonstrate to the program principle faculty the ability to meet the designated technical standards.
• Successful interview with admissions committee of the PA program.
• Current Basic Cardiac Life Support (BLS) from the American Heart Association is required upon enrollment in the program. Most clinical sites do not recognize other institutions.