LITTLE ROCK — Students in the new physician assistant program at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences will begin classes next month.
UAMS says the program received the necessary accreditation Thursday to begin offering classes.
The full-time master's degree program is part of the UAMS College of Health Professions. The first group of 26 students will begin classes in May, and UAMS says the program lasts 28 months.
UAMS Chancellor Dr. Dan Rahn says the program will improve health care access in the state by producing more physician assistants.
Physician assistants take patient medical histories, conduct physical exams and diagnose medical conditions with the supervision of a physician. Students in the program will receive classroom instruction along with treating patients in clinics and hospitals.