There are a number of disciplines in which physician assistants may choose to specialize.  A few examples of PA career specializations include surgery, pediatrics, family medicine, internal medicine, or emergency medicine.  

• Physician Assistant Program: 2 years to complete (Most programs offer master's degrees, but some also offer bachelor's, associate, and certificates.) 

In order for students to become a certified physician assistant, or PA, they must first be enrolled in an accredited university. Students typically complete a four-year bachelor's degree program and then enroll in a two-year physician assistant program. It is also important for applicants to have health-related field work that has given them some hands-on experience in the medical industry.

In addition, many programs offer a five-year physician assistant program that is a combination of a bachelor's degree and a physician assistant program. This enables students to complete their academic program more quickly, and thus, enter the workforce more promptly.

All 50 states plus the District of Columbia require students graduating from a physician assistant program to pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination in order to work as a physician assistant. This specific exam is given by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). In addition to this, after a physician assistant is registered, they must complete an additional 200 hours of medical education every two years in order to maintain their registration. This is necessary for employment as a PA as well. (BLS)

The average annual salary for a physician assistant in 2008 was approximately $81K. The middle range of PAs earned approximately $68K-$97K, while the top 10 percent earned more than $110K. (BLS)

According to the United States Department of Labor, the physician assistant career is moving at a very fast pace and can expect to grow an additional 39 percent in the decade of 2008-2018. This provides a very exciting and promising outlook for individuals interested in entering this program.

The reason behind the high growth in this field is due to the overall growth of the medical and health care industries and limited budgets. Because PAs are qualified to perform many of the same duties as a licensed physician, they often fill in for physicians and provide a more cost-effective way for hospitals and clinics to treat patients. (BLS)

Audiologists evaluate and treat patients who are experiencing difficulty with their ears or with their ability to hear properly. They serve patients of all ages who suffer from issues concerning balance or auditory, sensory, or neural systems. They utilize a variety of computer programs and high-tech equipment to assess their patients' conditions and find a resolution. 

Physical therapists work with patients who have experienced a physical ailment that prohibits them from moving and functioning typically. They diagnose the problems and develop with a plan to work with the patient on a regular basis that will help resolve it through reducing pain, restoring function, and helping patients with their ability to move. They also work to prevent the overall loss of mobility.

Registered nurses treat, educate, and provide emotional support to patients and their family members. They have the option of specializing in specific areas such as organs, diseases, or pediatrics. They also have the option of working in a hospital, office, or home care.