How do I train to be a Physician Associate in KSS?

In Kent, Surrey and Sussex, Physician Associate Postgraduate Diploma Courses (PG Dip) are offered by:

Brighton & Sussex Medical School
University of Surrey (Guildford)
Canterbury Christ Church University and University of Kent

These postgraduate training courses are intensive, full time, 2 year programmes delivered over at least 45 weeks per year. Entrants are typically biomedical/life science graduates with a minimum of a 2:1 degree. As of April 2017, there are 29 university programmes across the UK.  In order to be considered for the course you should have some work experience within a healthcare setting but is not necessary to have shadowed a PA.

The curriculum is delivered using a combination of lectures, problem and case-based learning and supervised placements in various clinical settings including general practice, mental health, A&E, paediatrics, obstetrics & gynaecology, surgery, and acute and general medicine. The curriculum adheres to the recommendations outlined in the Department of Health’s Matrix of Conditions and Competence and Curriculum Framework which specify training should include at least 1600 hours of direct teaching and 1600 hours of clinical placement.

The Faculty of Physician Associates at the Royal College of Physicians (FPARCP) has a Pre-registration Education Subcommittee which will govern the process whereby universities gain FPARCP accreditation for their courses.