Physician assistants

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Physician assistants play a vital role in the US economy, with 163K professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $133,260, with projected growth of 20% through 2034 (Much faster than average).

$133,260
Median Salary
20%
Growth Rate
50%
AI Risk
Master's Degree
Education

๐Ÿ’ฐ Salary Range

$79,956$133,260 median$213,216

๐Ÿ“ˆ Growth Outlook

๐Ÿ”ฅ High Growth โ€” 20% projected growth

๐Ÿค– AI Automation Risk

Moderate

Some tasks may be automated, but human skills remain essential.

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AI Impact Deep Dive: Physician assistants

๐Ÿ”ฌ AI Impact Deep Dive: Physician assistants

AI Collaboration Score

9% โ€” Low

Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)

๐Ÿ”ฎ Future Outlook

Physician assistants perform a mix of high-level knowledge work and physical clinical tasks. While AI will significantly augment diagnostic accuracy, treatment planning, and administrative documentation, the role requires physical presence for examinations, surgical procedures, and hands-on treatments like stitching wounds, as well as complex interpersonal counseling that is difficult to automate.

Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.

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A Day in the Life

As a physician assistant, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
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Career Outlook & Getting Started

Why It's Promising

With 20% projected growth and a median salary of $133,260, this career offers strong prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent.

How to Get Started

Entry typically requires master's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.

Who Is It For

Anyone interested in physician assistants who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.

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Majors & Top Schools

Recommended Majors

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Physician assistants make in 2026?โ–ผ

The median salary for a Physician assistants is $133,260 per year. Entry-level positions start around $79,956, while experienced professionals can earn up to $213,216 depending on location, specialization, and industry.

How do I become a Physician assistants?โ–ผ

Entry typically requires master's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is master's degree. Recommended majors include Nursing (BSN).

What degree do you need to be a Physician assistants?โ–ผ

Most Physician assistants positions require master's degree. The most relevant majors are Nursing (BSN). However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.

What AP courses should I take to become a Physician assistants?โ–ผ

Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Physician assistants. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.

What does a Physician assistants do on a daily basis?โ–ผ

As a physician assistant, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.

Is Physician assistants a good career in 2026?โ–ผ

With 20% projected growth and a median salary of $133,260, this career offers strong prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent. Job growth is projected at 20%, which is declining. The median salary of $133,260 also positions it competitively in the job market.

Will AI replace Physician assistantss?โ–ผ

Physician assistants has an AI automation risk score of 50/100 (Moderate). AI will change how this work is done, but the core skills remain valuable. Professionals who learn to work with AI tools will have a significant advantage.

What kind of person makes a good Physician assistants?โ–ผ

Anyone interested in physician assistants who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.

Is Physician assistants Right for You?

Take our career quiz to see how Physician assistants matches your personality. Get personalized AP course recommendations and see what similar students are exploring.

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