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B-SC in Physician Assistant at SRM Institute of Science and Technology
Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Physician Assistant at SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chengalpattu?
This Physician Assistant program at SRM Institute of Science and Technology focuses on training highly skilled healthcare professionals capable of working under the supervision of physicians. The curriculum is designed to meet the growing demand for PAs in India''''s diverse healthcare landscape, emphasizing clinical competence, ethical practice, and patient-centered care. Graduates are equipped to provide comprehensive medical services across various specialties, addressing critical gaps in medical workforce distribution.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring healthcare professionals seeking a dynamic clinical role without the extensive duration of a full medical degree. It suits fresh 10+2 science graduates eager to enter the medical field quickly, or those with a background in allied health sciences looking to advance their clinical responsibilities. Individuals passionate about direct patient care, diagnostics, and treatment in a physician-supervised setting will thrive in this career.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths as Physician Assistants in multi-specialty hospitals, private clinics, and rural health centers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience to INR 8-15+ LPA for experienced PAs. The role offers rapid growth trajectories, opportunities for specialization, and a chance to contribute meaningfully to healthcare delivery, aligning with national health missions.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Medical Terminology and Basic Sciences- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate consistent time to build a strong foundation in human anatomy, physiology, and basic biochemistry. Utilize flashcards, anatomical models, and online medical dictionaries daily. Actively participate in practical labs to solidify theoretical knowledge and understand the ''''why'''' behind medical terms.
Tools & Resources
Gray''''s Anatomy (online/textbook), Netter''''s Atlas of Human Anatomy, Khan Academy (Biology/Chemistry), SRMIST anatomy/physiology labs
Career Connection
A robust understanding of foundational sciences and medical language is crucial for accurate diagnosis, effective communication with patients and colleagues, and building credibility as a future Physician Assistant.
Develop Strong Study Habits and Time Management- (Semester 1-2)
Organize your study schedule to balance demanding theory and practical sessions. Form small study groups with peers to discuss complex topics, quiz each other, and review lab findings. Practice active recall and spaced repetition techniques to retain large volumes of medical information effectively.
Tools & Resources
Quizlet, Anki, Google Calendar/Planners, Peer study groups
Career Connection
Effective time management and strong study habits are critical for managing the high-pressure environment of clinical practice and continuous learning required in healthcare.
Engage Actively in Hospital Practice and Ethics Classes- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention during sessions on hospital ethics, patient rights, and communication. Seek opportunities to observe hospital environments (if permitted) even in early stages, focusing on how healthcare professionals interact with patients and each other. Understand the code of conduct for medical professionals.
Tools & Resources
Hospital Ethics guidelines, Case studies on medical ethics, Observation in SRM Medical College Hospital (if arranged by department)
Career Connection
Early exposure to medical ethics and hospital dynamics is vital for developing a professional demeanor and understanding the critical importance of patient trust and compassionate care, which are core to a Physician Assistant''''s role.
Intermediate Stage
Hone Clinical Examination and Basic Procedural Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Actively participate in clinical skills labs, practicing patient history taking, physical examination techniques, basic suturing, and injection administration on mannequins and simulators. Seek constructive feedback from instructors. Look for opportunities for supervised clinical observation in relevant departments.
Tools & Resources
Clinical Skills Training Manikins, Surgical Suture Practice Kits, Stethoscopes, BP Apparatus, Supervised clinical rotations at SRM Medical Hospital
Career Connection
Proficiency in clinical skills is the cornerstone of a Physician Assistant''''s role, enabling effective patient assessment and performing essential medical procedures, directly impacting diagnostic accuracy and treatment.
Build a Professional Network and Seek Mentorship- (Semester 3-5)
Attend guest lectures, workshops, and medical conferences to meet practicing physicians, physician assistants, and other allied health professionals. Seek out mentors within the SRM faculty or affiliated hospitals who can guide your academic and career path. Join professional PA associations if available.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional Medical Associations (e.g., IMA student chapters), Faculty advising sessions, Medical conferences in Chennai
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internships, research opportunities, and future employment. Mentorship provides invaluable insights, guidance, and support for navigating a complex healthcare career in India.
Deep Dive into Systemic Medicine and Pharmacology- (Semester 3-5)
Focus intensely on understanding systemic diseases and the pharmacology of various drug classes. Create detailed drug cards and disease summaries. Participate in clinical discussions, correlating patient symptoms with physiological changes and pharmacological interventions. Practice interpreting diagnostic reports.
Tools & Resources
Goodman & Gilman''''s The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics (textbook), Medical case study books, Clinical practice guidelines (e.g., from ICMR)
Career Connection
A comprehensive grasp of systemic medicine and pharmacology is crucial for a Physician Assistant to assist in diagnosing, treating, and managing patient conditions effectively across various medical specialties.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Clinical Rotations and Case Presentations- (Semester 6 + Internship Year)
Approach each clinical rotation (General Medicine, Surgery, ER, etc.) with enthusiasm, actively participating in ward rounds, patient examinations, and procedural assistance. Prepare thoroughly for case presentations, focusing on differential diagnoses, treatment plans, and patient management. Seek feedback relentlessly.
Tools & Resources
Clinical Logbooks, UpToDate/Medscape (clinical reference apps), Supervising physicians/consultants during rotations, SRM Medical Hospital''''s diverse clinical departments
Career Connection
Exceptional performance in clinical rotations leads to strong recommendations, improved clinical judgment, and direct pathways to preferred placements, demonstrating readiness for independent (supervised) practice.
Undertake a Meaningful Project and Research- (Semester 6)
Engage seriously with the project work in your final year. Identify a relevant clinical problem, conduct thorough research, and present your findings. This showcases your analytical skills and ability to contribute to medical knowledge, which is highly valued in advanced healthcare roles.
Tools & Resources
PubMed, Google Scholar, Statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R for basic analysis), Research methodology textbooks, Faculty mentors for project guidance
Career Connection
A well-executed project enhances critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills, setting you apart in job applications and preparing you for evidence-based practice and further academic pursuits.
Prepare Rigorously for Placements and Professional Licensure- (Semester 6 + Internship Year)
Start preparing your resume and cover letter early, tailoring them to Physician Assistant roles. Practice interview skills, including clinical scenario questions. Stay updated on any professional licensure or certification requirements for PAs in India. Leverage the institution''''s placement cell resources.
Tools & Resources
SRMIST Placement Cell, Mock interviews, Resume building workshops, Professional body guidelines for PAs in India
Career Connection
Thorough preparation ensures successful transition into the workforce, securing desirable positions as a Physician Assistant in leading hospitals and healthcare institutions across India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology / Botany & Zoology and English with minimum 45% marks taken together for Physics, Chemistry and Biology / Botany & Zoology (40% for OBC / SC / ST candidates). Minimum 17 years of age by December 31st of the admission year.
Duration: 4 years (3 academic years + 1 year compulsory internship)
Credits: 146 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BPA21001T | Human Anatomy I (Theory) | Core | 3 | General Anatomy & Terminology, Musculoskeletal System (Upper Limb, Lower Limb), Thorax (Bones, Cavities, Organs), Abdomen (Peritoneum, Viscera), Pelvis & Perineum (Bones, Organs) |
| BPA21001P | Human Anatomy I (Practical) | Lab | 1 | Identification of Bones, Surface Anatomy Landmarks, Study of Human Models, Microscopic Study of Tissues |
| BPA21002T | Human Physiology I (Theory) | Core | 3 | General Physiology (Cell, Homeostasis), Blood and Body Fluids, Cardiovascular System, Respiratory System, Excretory System |
| BPA21002P | Human Physiology I (Practical) | Lab | 1 | Blood Grouping, Hemoglobin Estimation, Spirometry, Clinical Examination Techniques |
| BPA21003T | Basic Biochemistry (Theory) | Core | 3 | Introduction to Biochemistry, Carbohydrate Metabolism, Lipid Metabolism, Protein Metabolism, Clinical Enzymology, Water & Electrolyte Balance |
| BPA21003P | Basic Biochemistry (Practical) | Lab | 1 | Qualitative Analysis of Carbohydrates, Protein Estimation, Urine Analysis, Blood Glucose Estimation |
| BPA21004T | Computer Applications (Theory) | Core | 2 | Fundamentals of Computers, Operating Systems, MS Office Applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Internet & Email, Hospital Information Systems (HIS) Basics |
| BPA21004P | Computer Applications (Practical) | Lab | 1 | Working with MS Word Documents, Data Handling in MS Excel, Creating Presentations in PowerPoint, Internet Browsing & Email Communication |
| BPA21005 | English | Core | 2 | Grammar and Usage, Reading Comprehension, Report Writing, Presentation Skills, Medical Terminology Basics, Professional Communication |
| BPA21006 | Hospital Practice & Ethics | Core | 2 | Introduction to Hospital Services, Hospital Organization, Basic Medical Ethics, Patient Rights and Responsibilities, Healthcare Team Dynamics, Medico-Legal Aspects |
| BPA21007 | Environmental Studies | Core | 2 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Solid Waste Management, Renewable Energy Sources, Environmental Policies, Disaster Management |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BPA21008T | Human Anatomy II (Theory) | Core | 3 | Neuroanatomy (Brain, Spinal Cord, Cranial Nerves), Head & Neck Anatomy, Endocrine Glands, Reproductive System, Embryology Basics |
| BPA21008P | Human Anatomy II (Practical) | Lab | 1 | Study of Brain & Spinal Cord Models, Identification of Cranial Nerves, Histology of Endocrine Glands, Anatomical Dissections (models) |
| BPA21009T | Human Physiology II (Theory) | Core | 3 | Nervous System (Sensory, Motor, Autonomic), Endocrine System, Reproductive System, Gastrointestinal System, Special Senses (Eye, Ear) |
| BPA21009P | Human Physiology II (Practical) | Lab | 1 | Nerve Conduction Studies (simulated), Endocrine Function Tests, Gastrointestinal Reflexes, Sensory System Assessment |
| BPA21010T | Basic Microbiology (Theory) | Core | 3 | Introduction to Microbiology, Bacteriology (Gram staining, culture), Virology (Virus structure, replication), Mycology (Fungal infections), Parasitology (Common parasites), Sterilization & Disinfection |
| BPA21010P | Basic Microbiology (Practical) | Lab | 1 | Microscopic Examination of Bacteria, Culture Media Preparation, Staining Techniques (Gram, Acid-fast), Antibiotic Sensitivity Testing |
| BPA21011T | Pharmacology (Theory) | Core | 3 | General Principles of Pharmacology, Pharmacokinetics (ADME), Pharmacodynamics (Drug action), Drug Interactions, Adverse Drug Reactions, Drug Dosing Principles |
| BPA21011P | Pharmacology (Practical) | Lab | 1 | Routes of Drug Administration, Drug Calculation & Preparation, Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting, Interpreting Drug Prescriptions |
| BPA21012 | Medical Terminology & Communication | Core | 2 | Basic Prefixes, Suffixes, Root Words, Anatomical & Physiological Terminology, Disease & Diagnostic Terminology, Therapeutic Terminology, Verbal & Non-verbal Communication, Patient Counseling |
| BPA21013T | Nursing Skills (Theory) | Core | 2 | Basic Patient Care, Vital Signs Monitoring, Wound Care & Dressing, Injections & IV Fluid Administration, Catheterization, First Aid & CPR Basics |
| BPA21013P | Nursing Skills (Practical) | Lab | 1 | Practicing Vital Signs Measurement, Sterile Dressing Techniques, Administering Injections on Mannequins, Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice |
| BPA21014T | Basic Pathology (Theory) | Core | 3 | Introduction to Pathology, Cell Injury & Adaptations, Inflammation & Repair, Immunopathology, Neoplasia (Tumors), Genetic Disorders |
| BPA21014P | Basic Pathology (Practical) | Lab | 1 | Microscopic Study of Inflammatory Lesions, Identifying Neoplastic Changes, Gross Pathology Specimen Study, Hematology Stains & Smear Study |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BPA21015T | Clinical Pathology (Theory) | Core | 3 | Hematology (Anemias, Leukemias), Clinical Biochemistry (Liver, Kidney Function Tests), Body Fluids Analysis (CSF, Pleural, Ascitic), Urine Analysis (Microscopy, Chemical), Coagulation Disorders, Blood Banking Principles |
| BPA21015P | Clinical Pathology (Practical) | Lab | 1 | Performing Complete Blood Count (CBC), Cross-matching Blood, CSF Analysis, Liver Function Tests (LFT) procedures |
| BPA21016T | Systemic Pharmacology (Theory) | Core | 3 | Autonomic Nervous System Drugs, Cardiovascular System Drugs, Respiratory System Drugs, Gastrointestinal System Drugs, Endocrine System Drugs, Antimicrobial Agents |
| BPA21016P | Systemic Pharmacology (Practical) | Lab | 1 | Interpreting Drug Prescriptions for Systemic Diseases, Drug Interaction Management, Patient Education on Medications, Monitoring Drug Efficacy and Side Effects |
| BPA21017 | General Medicine I | Core | 4 | History Taking & Physical Examination, Infectious Diseases (Fever, TB, Malaria), Cardiovascular Diseases (Hypertension, CAD), Respiratory Diseases (Asthma, COPD), Gastrointestinal Disorders (GERD, Peptic Ulcer), Endocrine Disorders (Diabetes Mellitus) |
| BPA21018T | Basic Surgical Skills (Theory) | Core | 2 | Principles of Asepsis & Sterilization, Wound Healing & Classification, Surgical Instruments, Suturing Materials & Techniques, Pre-operative & Post-operative Care, Minor Surgical Procedures |
| BPA21018P | Basic Surgical Skills (Practical) | Lab | 1 | Hand Washing & Gloving Techniques, Sterile Field Preparation, Basic Suturing Practice (on models), Knot Tying Techniques, Wound Dressing Techniques |
| BPA21019 | Public Health and Epidemiology | Core | 2 | Concepts of Public Health, Epidemiology Principles (Measures of disease), Communicable Diseases, Non-Communicable Diseases, Maternal & Child Health, Health Programs in India |
| BPA21020 | Basic Cardiology | Core | 2 | Cardiac Anatomy & Physiology Review, Electrocardiography (ECG) Interpretation Basics, Common Cardiac Arrhythmias, Hypertension Management, Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), Heart Failure Management |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BPA21021 | General Medicine II | Core | 4 | Neurological Disorders (Stroke, Epilepsy), Renal Disorders (CKD, Acute Kidney Injury), Hematological Disorders (Anemia, Coagulopathy), Rheumatological Disorders (Arthritis), Geriatric Medicine, Palliative Care |
| BPA21022 | General Surgery I | Core | 4 | Surgical Infections & Antibiotics, Fluid & Electrolyte Balance in Surgery, Shock & Hemorrhage, Abdominal Trauma, Hernias & Appendicitis, Breast Diseases |
| BPA21023T | Clinical Biochemistry (Theory) | Core | 3 | Advanced Liver Function Tests, Kidney Function Tests (GFR estimation), Thyroid Function Tests, Cardiac Biomarkers, Acid-Base Balance Disorders, Tumor Markers |
| BPA21023P | Clinical Biochemistry (Practical) | Lab | 1 | Performing Thyroid Profile Tests, Cardiac Enzyme Assays, Blood Gas Analysis Interpretation, Electrolyte Measurement |
| BPA21024 | Medical Genetics | Core | 2 | Basic Principles of Genetics, Chromosomal Abnormalities, Single Gene Disorders, Mitochondrial Inheritance, Genetic Counseling, Gene Therapy Basics |
| BPA21025T | Clinical Microbiology (Theory) | Core | 3 | Diagnostic Bacteriology, Diagnostic Virology, Diagnostic Mycology, Hospital Acquired Infections (HAIs), Antibiotic Resistance Mechanisms, Vaccinology |
| BPA21025P | Clinical Microbiology (Practical) | Lab | 1 | Collection of Clinical Samples, Isolation & Identification of Pathogens, Antibiogram Interpretation, Serological Tests for Infections |
| BPA21026T | Basic Radiology & Imaging (Theory) | Core | 2 | Principles of X-rays, Common X-ray Views & Interpretation, Ultrasound Imaging Basics, CT Scan Principles, MRI Scan Principles, Radiation Safety |
| BPA21026P | Basic Radiology & Imaging (Practical) | Lab | 1 | Interpreting Chest X-rays, Identifying Fractures on X-rays, Basic Ultrasound Image Recognition, Patient Positioning for Imaging |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BPA21027 | General Medicine III | Core | 4 | Dermatological Conditions, Psychiatric Disorders, Ophthalmological Disorders, ENT Disorders, Toxicology & Poisoning, Medical Emergencies |
| BPA21028 | General Surgery II | Core | 4 | Gastrointestinal Surgery, Urological Surgery, Vascular Surgery, Neurosurgery Basics, Head & Neck Surgery, Oncosurgery Principles |
| BPA21029T | Anaesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine (Theory) | Core | 3 | Principles of Anesthesia (General, Regional), Pre-anesthetic Evaluation, Anesthetic Agents & Equipment, Airway Management, Monitoring in Critical Care, CPR & Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) |
| BPA21029P | Anaesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine (Practical) | Lab | 1 | Bag-Mask Ventilation Practice, Intubation Simulation, Operating Anesthesia Machine (simulated), Monitoring Vital Parameters in ICU |
| BPA21030 | Orthopaedics | Core | 3 | Fractures & Dislocations, Spinal Injuries, Joint Disorders (Arthritis), Bone Tumors, Amputations & Prosthetics, Orthopedic Emergencies |
| BPA21031 | Obstetrics & Gynaecology | Core | 3 | Antenatal Care, Normal Labor & Delivery, Postnatal Care, Family Planning, Common Gynaecological Disorders, Infertility Management |
| BPA21032T | Emergency Medicine (Theory) | Core | 3 | Initial Assessment & Resuscitation, Trauma Management (ATLS principles), Medical Emergencies (MI, Stroke, Sepsis), Poisoning & Overdoses, Environmental Emergencies, Disaster Preparedness |
| BPA21032P | Emergency Medicine (Practical) | Lab | 1 | BLS & ACLS Protocol Practice, Splinting & Bandaging, Airway Management Techniques, Triage System Practice |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BPA21033 | Paediatrics | Core | 3 | Growth & Development, Childhood Immunization, Common Childhood Infections, Nutritional Disorders in Children, Neonatal Care, Pediatric Emergencies |
| BPA21034 | Allied Medical Specialties | Core | 3 | Dentistry Basics, Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation, Dietetics & Nutrition, Clinical Psychology, Health Administration, Medical Social Work |
| BPA21035 | Basic Research Methodology & Biostatistics | Core | 3 | Introduction to Research, Research Design & Methods, Data Collection & Analysis, Introduction to Biostatistics, Hypothesis Testing, Ethical Considerations in Research |
| BPA21036 | ENT, Ophthalmology & Dermatology | Core | 3 | Common ENT Disorders (Otitis, Sinusitis), Ocular Infections & Refractive Errors, Skin Infections & Inflammatory Dermatoses, Minor ENT Procedures, Ophthalmic Examination, Dermatological Procedures |
| BPA21037 | Recent Advances in Physician Assistant | Core | 2 | Telemedicine & Digital Health, Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare, Precision Medicine, New Diagnostic Modalities, Emerging Therapeutics, Robotics in Surgery (overview) |
| BPA21038 | Project Work | Project | 4 | Problem Identification & Literature Review, Methodology Design, Data Collection & Analysis, Report Writing, Presentation Skills, Research Ethics |
