How long does it take to become a physician assistant?
Physician assistants earn a median of about $130,000 a year (about $62/hour) in the US — from around $90,000 entering the field to $168,000+ at the top. Becoming one usually takes about 6–7 years: Master's degree. A master's-level route to practicing medicine in about six to seven years.
Physician assistant salary
| Entry level (10th percentile) | $90,000 |
| Median (typical) | $130,000 |
| Experienced (90th percentile) | $168,000+ |
| Median hourly | $62/hr |
Approximate US figures based on public wage data (BLS OEWS). Actual pay varies by employer, experience and location.
The path to becoming a physician assistant
- 1Earn a bachelor's with prerequisites
- 2Gain healthcare experience
- 3Complete a PA master's program
- 4Pass the PANCE and get licensed
What you need
- Master's from an accredited PA program
- PANCE certification + state license
PAs enjoy high pay, versatility across specialties, and strong job growth.
Physician assistant salary by state
Local pay varies with cost of living. See an estimate for your state:
Physician assistant — frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become a physician assistant?
It usually takes about 6–7 years. The typical path: Earn a bachelor's with prerequisites; Gain healthcare experience; Complete a PA master's program; Pass the PANCE and get licensed.
How much do physician assistants make?
The median pay is about $130,000 a year ($62/hour). Most earn between roughly $90,000 and $168,000, depending on experience, employer and location. See the state pages for local estimates.
Do you need a degree to become a physician assistant?
Entry requires: Master's from an accredited PA program; PANCE certification + state license. PAs enjoy high pay, versatility across specialties, and strong job growth.
Related careers
General information to help you plan a career — not career, legal or financial advice. Salary figures are estimates and training times are typical routes; both vary by state, program and individual. Check official sources and accredited programs before making decisions.