The Universities of Wolverhampton, Birmingham and Warwick with Coventry offer a new opportunity to graduates to make a valuable contribution to the nation’s health. Our innovative Postgraduate Diploma in Physician Assistant Studies has been developed in line with the Competence and Curriculum Framework published by the Department of Health and is supported by NHS West Midlands. Applicants should be aware, however, that running the course in each University is dependent on completion of the internal approval processes which are currently under way.

The Physician Assistant role is new to the UK. It involves the diagnosis and management of conditions in general practice and hospital settings, under the supervision of a doctor. This is not yet a registered profession and, whilst national moves towards protected registration are underway, we cannot guarantee their successful completion. Applicants should note that many other healthcare professions do not have protected registration.

The first cohort began their studies at the Universities of Birmingham and Wolverhampton in January 2008, (and will begin at the University of Warwick with Coventry University at a later date), this highly demanding course compresses three academic years into two calendar years with students studying for 46 weeks per year. Clinical experience is spread throughout the course and across the West Midlands and students must therefore be prepared to travel. Short listed applicants will be interviewed and in addition to a proven academic record, will be expected to demonstrate a strong interest in health issues, a concern for the welfare of others and a flair for communication.

There are 60 places across the West Midlands in the first cohort. Students will have opportunities during the course to work as part of the whole cohort, but will be admitted to one of the Universities, which will be both their base and the awarding body for their degree.

Further information about each University and programme, plus application details can be found at the websites of University of Wolverhampton and University of Birmingham.