At SHSU’s Department of Physician Assistant Studies and Athletic Training, we believe in more than teaching skills—we shape compassionate, adaptable, and confident healthcare leaders. Our student-centered programs combine rigorous academics with immersive clinical experiences, mentorship from expert faculty, and opportunities to serve diverse communities. You’ll learn alongside peers in other health disciplines, gaining a team-based perspective that mirrors real-world practice.
Our Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) program is thriving, preparing students to excel in injury prevention, rehabilitation, and patient-centered care. Building on that success, SHSU is developing the proposed Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program, which is currently pending review by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. This exciting new program reflects our commitment to expanding healthcare education and preparing future PAs to serve with excellence.
Whether advancing as an AT today or preparing to join the next generation of PAs tomorrow, you’ll find a path at SHSU that empowers you to lead with integrity, deliver excellent care, and make a lasting difference in the lives of those you serve.
Mission
The mission of the Department of Physician Assistant Studies* and Athletic Training at Sam Houston State University promotes a team based student-centered curriculum that will encourage personal growth, life-long learning and community engagement, advancing future physician assistants that are capable of distinction in caring for the underserved and marginalized population of Texas and beyond.
Highlights
- Wide variety of laboratory and practical experiences including an anatomy dissection lab
- Clinical rotations at many world-renowned facilities
- Outstanding faculty and staff with extensive experience in their professional fields
- Small group, team-based learning seminar sessions
- Interprofessional activities with medical, nursing, physical therapy, dietetics, and athletic training students
- Professional development and simulation activities with high-fidelity models
- PANCE Prep software and resources
Career Opportunities
- Certified Physician Assistant (with completed MPAS degree and successful completion of certification and licensure)
- Direction patient care roles in a variety of settings from family medicine to palliative care
- Hospital based in-patient care to include hospital medicine, ICU critical care, emergency medicine, cardiology and more
- Academia/PA Education
- Research
- Clinical Operations
- Leadership
- Public Health
- Postgraduate training and certifications
*This proposed degree program is pending action from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.