BS in Biology: Pre-Physician Assistant Major

Campus

BS in Biology: Pre-Physician Assistant Major

Campus

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Degree Level

Bachelor's

Class Setting

Campus

Area of Study

Healthcare

Program

BS in Biology: Pre-Physician Assistant

Current Education Level

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Country

United States

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Overview

What Is a BS in Biology: Pre-PA Major?

A Bachelor of Science (BS) in Biology with a pre-physician assistant emphasis is an undergraduate program designed to help you prepare for entry into a physician assistant (PA) master's program. Students can gain hands-on experience in key science areas, such as biochemistry and physics, while building foundational knowledge in human health and pathophysiology to support future PA studies.

47%

Estimated number of PA applicants who pursued biology, health science and psychology majors as a pathway to PA programs^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Bachelor of Science in Biology with an Emphasis in Pre-Physician Assistant

Offered By

College of Natural Sciences

Class Settings

Campus

Tuition Rate

Campus: $8,250 per semester [More Info]

Cost of Attendance

Course Information

Credits: 120

Campus: 15 weeks

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Transfer Credits

Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division

Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)

16+ years old
High School Graduate
3.0+ Unweighted GPA

OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and

ACT: 19
SAT: 1000*

Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).

GCU Experience

Why Choose GCU for Your BS in Biology: Pre-Physician Assistant Major?

As a BS in Biology: pre-PA major, you’ll be immersed in a vibrant campus culture in the heart of Phoenix. You’ll have numerous opportunities to enrich your academic experience, including hands-on lab projects, a STEM-oriented learning community and undergraduate research offerings.

As a private Christian university, GCU encourages our students to emulate a Christ-like character and prepare for a life in service to God and His people. You will work through faith-integrated courses that highlight the importance of ethical conduct among healthcare professionals.

What To Expect in a BS in Biology: Pre-PA Program

An Education From an Accredited, Trusted University

GCU has been institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968. The College of Natural Sciences shares the university’s commitment to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies.

BS in Biology: Pre-Physician Assistant Program Core Course Topics

In this biology bachelor’s: pre-physician assistant program, you will explore the foundations of life sciences in order to make critical decisions in healthcare. You’ll study a wide range of science disciplines, including general and organic chemistry, molecular and cellular biology and physics, as well as medical science-specific topics in immunology, pathophysiology and genetics. You’ll complete a capstone course toward the end of the program, in which you’ll prepare a scientific report or proposal on a science-related topic.

This program teaches fundamentals in areas such as:

Microbiology

Examine the characteristics, growth and function of microorganisms

Anatomy and physiology

Dive into the function and physiological processes of body parts and systems

Medical terms

Develop a foundation in the definition, usage and origins of medical terminology

Neurobiology principles

Explore the human nervous system, including neural systems and neural communication

What Bachelor’s Degree Do I Need for a Physician Assistant?

This BS in Biology: pre-PA major is an ideal choice for students who plan to apply to a physician assistant master’s program, as it teaches a comprehensive framework of biology and other life sciences. If you have other career goals in mind, you can explore GCU’s other emphasis options in biology, including pre-pharmacy, pre-medicine and pre-dentistry.

Biology Majors

Outlook

What Can You Do With a BS in Biology: Pre-PA Degree?

Graduate-level physician assistant studies are the next stop in higher education for many graduates. This BS in Biology: pre-physician assistant major can help you prepare to pursue entry into physician assistant graduate programs, with the goal of becoming a PA. Under the supervision of a physician, PAs can examine, diagnose and treat patients across the lifespan. They may work in hospitals, outpatient care centers, physician offices and governmental agencies.^{(See disclaimer 1)}

Common areas and workplace settings for PAs include:^{(See disclaimer 1)}

Primary care and family medicine

Provide preventive care, routine checkups and ongoing patient support across all ages

Hospital-based care

Collaborate with healthcare teams to diagnose, treat and manage patient care in hospital settings

Emergency and urgent care

Deliver fast-paced medical care for acute illnesses, injuries and emergencies

Surgical specialties

Assist in surgical procedures and provide pre- and post-operative patient care

Academic and educational settings

Support healthcare education, training, research and clinical instruction

Public health and government agencies

Promote community wellness through public health programs, outreach and policy support

Cost & Savings

Evaluate Costs and Ways To Save on Tuition

GCU believes that quality higher education should be accessible to all. We’re committed to keeping our academic programs affordable for our students by freezing on-campus tuition rates and offering millions in institutional scholarships. An education at GCU is an investment in your future.

Explore On-Campus Tuition

GCU has not increased campus tuition rates since 2009

Ways To Save

Your education is an important financial investment, and there are several ways to help manage costs while earning your degree. GCU’s university counselors are available to help you explore available options and provide personalized guidance on your estimated cost of attendance.

Apply for Financial Aid

Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually to determine eligibility for federal grants and student loans. Since some aid is awarded on a first‑come, first‑served basis, GCU recommends submitting the FAFSA as early as possible after Oct. 1 to maximize funding opportunities.

Financial Aid

Transfer Your Credits

If you’ve earned college credits from another institution, you may be able to complete your degree sooner at GCU by transferring those credits. Submit the Lopes Unofficial Credit Evaluation form, then connect with a university counselor who can provide you with personalized guidance.

Transfer Center

Scholarships & Grants

You may be able to reduce your college costs by applying for GCU’s on-campus or online student scholarships. We invite you to explore available institutional scholarships and determine which opportunities you may be eligible for. GCU also encourages students to seek out third‑party scholarships and grants.

Find Scholarships

Explore Your Financial Options

Don’t wait to move forward. Talk with a university counselor to discover savings opportunities.

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FAQ

Bachelor’s in Biology: Pre-Physician Assistant Major FAQs

Pursuing a degree in biology: pre-PA emphasis, can be the first step toward your professional career. GCU has answers to your most frequently asked questions about our bachelor’s in biology degree program and career options.

Are there lab requirements in a BS in Biology: Pre-Physician Assistant program?

Is a Bachelor's in Biology: Pre-PA degree worth it?

If you are considering a career rooted in science and healthcare, this bachelor’s degree may be worth exploring. This emphasis is designed to help you prepare for applying to physician assistant graduate programs and features coursework focused on life sciences and medical science topics. For those who continue on to PA programs, the degree can support career paths centered on serving others, such as assisting patients with chronic conditions or treating acute injuries and illnesses.

What’s the difference between Pre-Med and Pre-PA?

The biology degree with a pre-medicine emphasis and the biology degree with a pre-PA emphasis are similar in that they lean heavily on life science coursework, as well as medical science topics such as medical terminology, pathophysiology and genetics. However, the biology: pre-PA emphasis is intended for students who would like to apply to physician assistant programs, whereas the biology: pre-med emphasis is for those who would like to apply to medical school and become physicians. As such, there are some curriculum differences, such as the addition of a pharmacology course to the pre-med emphasis.

What skills do students develop in a pre-PA track?

In this major, students will be taught how to operate lab equipment, conduct scientific experiments and analyze their findings. They will be prompted to apply critical reasoning when interpreting scientific data. Along with studying various field-specific scientific competencies, such as studies in human anatomy and physiology, students may have opportunities to refine soft skills, such as teamwork, communication and critical thinking.

What are my options after completing a BS in Biology: Pre-PA program?

Admission

Getting Into GCU

GCU has streamlined the process of applying for admission. Our university does not require a personal statement or essay and there is no application fee. High school students may meet the admission requirements with either a minimum GPA or SAT or ACT exam scores. Specific requirements can vary, depending on the degree or program. Your university counselor can help you navigate the process of applying.

Admission Requirements

Ingram Honors College

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Student Success

How To Apply to GCU

You can apply to a degree program at GCU in just three simple steps. Your university counselor is standing by to assist you with any questions about the application process.

It starts with selecting the program that aligns with your goals from one of GCU's 380+ academic programs — from undergraduate degrees to post-master’s certificate programs to doctoral degrees.

Pick your program

Explore our on-campus, online or evening cohort options under the Degree Programs page to find the right program for you.

Complete our online application

Your university counselor will direct you to the online application. Fill in all required information and submit the form.

Submit supporting documents

Submit your official transcripts and any relevant test scores, and confirm with your university counselor that all forms for your desired program are submitted.

Courses

Program Curriculum

Credit Summary

General Education Requirements34-40 credits

Major80 credits

Open Elective Credits0-6 credits

Degree Requirements120 credits

General Education Requirements

General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.

Competency

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.

Competency

9-12 Total Credits

Competency

4 Total Credits

Competency

11-12 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.

Competency

6-8 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.

Required General Education Courses

ENG-107

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is an introduction to technical and scientific writing in fields such as engineering, biology, computer science, and other STEM disciplines, and provides students with a background in logic and communication. In accordance with the Council of Writing Program Administrators Outcomes Statement and the Elon Statement on Learning Transfer, this course provides practice with a variety of scientific genres of communication, including their expected writing styles and structures. This course supports students in the ability to transfer knowledge of writing across technical and scientific disciplines and adapt to new and different writing tasks throughout their careers in the sciences.

MAT-261

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course presents the fundamentals of algebra and trigonometry with some applications; it provides the background and introduction for the study of calculus. Topics include review of linear equations and inequalities in one and multiple variables; functions and their graphs; polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions; systems of equations and matrices; and sequences and series. Slope and rate of change are introduced to set up the concepts of limits and derivatives. There is an emphasis on both an understanding of the mathematical concepts involved as well as their applications to the principles and real-world problems encountered in science and engineering. Technology is utilized to facilitate problem analysis and graphing. Prerequisite: MAT-134 or MAT-154.

MAT-274

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course provides an introduction to the study of basic probability, descriptive and inferential statistics, and decision making. Emphasis is placed on measures of central tendency and dispersion, correlation, regression, discrete and continuous probability distributions, quality control population parameter estimation, and hypothesis testing. Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in MAT-134, MAT-144 or MAT-154.

PSY-362

4 Total Credits

Core Courses

BIO-181

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is a study of biological concepts emphasizing the interplay of structure and function, particularly at the molecular and cellular levels of organization. Cell components and their duties are investigated, as well as the locations of cellular functions within the cell. The importance of the membrane is studied, particularly its roles in controlling movement of ions and molecules and in energy production. The effect of genetic information on the cell is followed through the pathway from DNA to RNA to protein. Co-requisite: BIO-181L.

BIO-181L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

This lab course is designed to reinforce principles learned in BIO-181 through experiments and activities which complement and enhance understanding of macromolecules, cell membrane properties, cellular components, and their contribution to cell structure and function. Assignments are designed to relate cellular processes such as metabolism, cell division, and the flow of genetic information to cell structure. Co-requisite: BIO-181.

SCI-150

4 Total Credits

BIO-215

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course, designed for Science majors, introduces the principles of microbiology and the study of the general characteristics, growth, and diversity of microorganisms. Topics include microbial cell structure and function, bacterial genetics, immune response and immunization, physical and chemical control of microorganisms, specific characteristics and mechanisms of antimicrobial medications, and microbial diseases with emphasis on pathogenesis, epidemiology and treatment. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L. Co-Requisite: BIO-215L.

BIO-215L

1 Total Credits

BIO-182

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is a study of biological concepts emphasizing the interplay of structure and function at the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels of organization. Relationships of different life forms are studied, noting characteristics and general lifecycles of the different types of organisms, including bacteria, archaea, and eukaryotes. Plant structure, function, and reproduction are studied, as well as photosynthesis and plant nutrition. Ecological principles are discussed, including organism interactions at the various ecological levels. Principles of conservation are introduced. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L. Co-Requisite: BIO-182L.

BIO-182L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

This lab is designed to reinforce principles learned in BIO-182. Organisms are examined to recognize similarities and differences among different types. Plant structure and processes, including photosynthesis and water transport, are investigated through observation and activities. Concepts of ecology are explored through study of species interactions projects and other activities. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L. Co-Requisite: BIO-182.

CHM-113

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This is the first course of a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. The course assumes no prior knowledge of chemistry and begins with basic concepts. Topics include an introduction to the scientific method, dimensional analysis, atomic structure, nomenclature, stoichiometry and chemical reactions, the gas laws, thermodynamics, chemical bonding, and properties of solutions. Co-Requisite: CHM-113L.

CHM-113L

1 Total Credits

BIO-210

3 Total Credits

BIO-210L

1 Total Credits

PHY-111

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is a study of basic concepts of physics, including motion; forces; energy; the properties of solids, liquids, and gases; and heat and thermodynamics. The mathematics used includes algebra, trigonometry, and vector analysis. A primary course goal is to build a functional knowledge that allows students to more fully understand the physical world and to apply that understanding to other areas of the natural and mathematical sciences. Conceptual, visual, graphical, and mathematical models of physical phenomena are stressed. Students build critical thinking skills by engaging in individual and group problem-solving sessions. Prerequisite: MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: PHY-111L.

PHY-111L

1 Total Credits

CHM-115

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This is the second course in a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. Upon successful completion of this course, students are able to demonstrate knowledge and/or skill in solving problems involving the principles of chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, and thermodynamics; understanding chemical reactions using kinetics, equilibrium, and thermodynamics; comparing and contrasting the principal theories of acids and bases; solving equilibrium involving acids, bases, and buffers; describing solubility equilibrium; describing terms associated with electrochemistry and solving problems associated with electrochemistry; and describing the fundamentals of nuclear chemistry. Prerequisites: CHM-113 and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115L.

CHM-115L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

The laboratory section of CHM-115 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Experiments include determination of rate law, examples of Le Châtelier’s principle, the use of pH indicators, buffer preparation, experimental determination of thermodynamic quantities, the use of electrochemical cells, and qualitative and quantitative analysis. Prerequisites: CHM-113L and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115.

BIO-211

3 Total Credits

BIO-211L

1 Total Credits

PHY-112

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is the second in a one-year introductory physics sequence. In this course, the basics of three areas in physics are covered, including electricity and magnetism, optics, and modern physics. Course topics include an introduction to electric and magnetic fields, the nature of light as an electromagnetic wave, geometric optics, quantum mechanics, and nuclear reactions. Prerequisites: PHY-111 and PHY-111L. Co-Requisite: PHY-112L.

PHY-112L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

This course utilizes lab experimentation to practice concepts of physical principles introduced in the PHY-112 lecture course. Some of the topics learners understand and analyze involve the relationship between electric charges and insulators/conductors, magnetism in physics, energy transformations in electric circuits, the relationship between magnetism and electricity, and how they relate to the medical industry. Prerequisites: PHY-111 and PHY-111L. Co-Requisite: PHY-112.

CHM-231

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is the first of two organic chemistry courses. The first half of this course develops the vocabulary and concepts of chemical bonding, chemical structure, acid-base principles, and nomenclature needed to understand properties and reactions of organic compounds. The second half of this course discusses chemical reactions, including radical reactions, substitution and elimination reactions, and synthesis and reactions of alkenes. Students learn how to predict reaction products and draw reaction mechanisms. Organic synthesis and structural determination are also covered. Instruction includes lecture and in-class problem solving. Prerequisites: CHM-115 and CHM-115L. Co-requisite: CHM-231L.

CHM-231L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

The laboratory section of CHM-231 reinforces principles learned in the lecture course through various techniques that organic chemists use to synthesize compounds. Students use these techniques throughout the semester. These techniques include determination of melting point, determination of solubility, thin layer chromatography, recrystallization, and distillation. Structural determination using theories discussed in CHM-231 is applied to unknown compounds. Prerequisites: CHM-115 and CHM-115L. Co-requisite: CHM-231.

BIO-333

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is a comprehensive study of the composition, structure, energetics, regulation, and growth of eukaryotic cells. Other topics include the essential processes of cells including the correlation of structure and function at the organelle and cellular levels. As well as, principles of molecular biology including recombinant DNA technology and other approaches and method used to investigate cell structure, development, chromosome organization, gene expression, and gene regulation. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L, and one of the following combinations: BIO-205 and BIO-205L, BIO-215 and BIO-215L, or CHM-113 and CHM-113L.

LDR-462

2 Total Credits

CHM-232

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is the second of two organic chemistry courses. The course is organized by common organic functional groups, including alkynes, alcohols, ether, aromatic compounds, ketones and aldehydes, amines, carboxylic acid, and carboxylic acid derivatives. The reactions and properties of each functional group are discussed. Students learn how to predict reaction products, draw reaction mechanisms, and predict physical properties. Instruction includes lecture and in-class problem solving. Prerequisites: CHM-231 and CHM-231L. Co-Requisite: CHM-232L.

CHM-232L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

The laboratory section of CHM-232 supports and extends principles learned in the lecture course. Students carry out various organic syntheses using techniques taught in CHM-231. The experiments include preparation of an alkene from an alcohol, a Grignard reaction, preparation of cinnamaldehyde, nitration of methyl benzoate, synthesis of N-Methyl Prozac, an Aldol reaction, Benzimidazole synthesis, and a Diazonium coupling reaction. Prerequisites: CHM-231 and CHM-231L. Co-requisite: CHM-232.

CHM-360

3 Total Credits

Course Description

The course objective is to survey basic biochemical principles, including the composition, structure, and function of proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and carbohydrates. Important biochemical principles include structure-function correlation, chemical reactivity, kinetics and equilibrium, thermodynamics, membrane structure and function, and metabolic energy pathways. The application of biochemical concepts in the medical field is emphasized. Prerequisite: BIO-181, BIO-181L, CHM-231, CHM-231L. Co-Requisite: CHM-360L.

CHM-360L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

This laboratory course covers modern biochemical laboratory techniques and their theoretical foundations. Topics include methods for protein, nucleic acid, and lipid isolation and characterization; enzyme assays; chromatography; electrophoresis; and representing and manipulating proteins and nucleic acids. Experiments are designed for hands-on experimentation and students acquire practical techniques currently used in biochemistry laboratories. Prerequisite: BIO-181, BIO-181L, CHM-231, CHM-231L. Co-Requisite: CHM-360.

BIO-335

2 Total Credits

Course Description

This course covers the language of medicine that will be used as a foundation for understanding upper level undergraduate and graduate level courses to follow. It will include pronunciation, definition, usage and origins of medical terms. Medical terms presented will be used to identify signs, symptoms, diagnoses, and treatment options for selected pathologies. With these skills the student will be able to effectively interpret and communicate in a healthcare setting. Prerequisite: BIO-192 or BIO-202 or BIO-211 or BIO-364.

BIO-358

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course provides an in depth study of the principles and applications of immunology and of the general characteristics of the innate and adaptive immune systems. Students develop understanding of pattern recognition receptors, antigen presentation, B and T cell responses, immunity, and other selected areas. Prerequisites: BIO-181 or BIO-201 or BIO-210, and BIO-205 or BIO-215.

BIO-483

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is designed to bridge the gap between basic preclinical science courses and the clinical requirements of health care/life science professionals. Systematic studies focus on the etiology, pathogenesis, morphology, and clinical manifestations associated with various altered health states and diseases. Material is presented using clinically relevant terminology that increases accurate and effective communication through extensive vocabulary expansion. Upon completion of this course, students should be able to correctly discuss a variety of disease states with health care professionals and patients while addressing the following questions: What is actually happening at the physiological level that causes the signs and symptoms of a given condition or disease? How does a change in normal physiology cause the signs and symptoms of a given condition or disease? How do these physiological effects correlate to mechanisms of accurate diagnoses? Why is one treatment method chosen over another? How do different systems intricately interrelate to cause a clinical picture and complications?. Prerequisites: One of the following combinations: BIO-201 and BIO-202; 2) BIO-210 and BIO-211; or 3) BIO-360.

BIO-457

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This writing intensive course provides a comprehensive examination of the principles of heredity and variation, including Mendelian, molecular, and population genetics. Students explore topics such as gene mapping, DNA structure and replication, population genetics, and molecular change. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L, and one of the following: BIO-205, BIO-215, BIO-333, BIO-339, or CHM-115.

BIO-343

4 Total Credits

SCI-495

4 Total Credits

Course Description

The capstone project is a culmination of the learning experiences while a student in the science programs at Grand Canyon University. Students discuss and write on current topics in their field and prepare an extensive written scientific report or proposal on select topics on the sciences, relevant to their program of study. The capstone project needs to reflect synthesis and integration of course content and good scientific practice. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisite: Senior status.

GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change

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Admission

Build Your Future in Healthcare

If you are passionate about working with patients as a healthcare provider, a biology degree: pre-PA program may be right for you.

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U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, Aug. 28). Physician Assistants: Work Environment. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved April 29, 2026.
PAEA Learning for a Lifetime. (2025, June 11). PA Program Applications Show Growth, Persistence. Retrieved May 2026.

BS in Biology: Pre-Physician Assistant Major

Step 1: Educational Interests

What Is a BS in Biology: Pre-PA Major?

Why Choose GCU for Your BS in Biology: Pre-Physician Assistant Major?

What To Expect in a BS in Biology: Pre-PA Program

An Education From an Accredited, Trusted University

An Engaging Campus Experience at a Christian College in Phoenix

Dedicated Student Support for Your Pre-PA Journey

What Will I Study in Pre-PA Courses?

BS in Biology: Pre-Physician Assistant Program Core Course Topics

What Bachelor’s Degree Do I Need for a Physician Assistant?

What Can You Do With a BS in Biology: Pre-PA Degree?

Evaluate Costs and Ways To Save on Tuition

GCU has not increased campus tuition rates since 2009

Ways To Save

Bachelor’s in Biology: Pre-Physician Assistant Major FAQs

Getting Into GCU

Program Curriculum

General Education Requirements

Required General Education Courses

Core Courses