Physician Associate Studies (top up) (Online) MSc

Our MSc top-up programme in Physician Associate Studies is tailored for graduates who have already completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Physician Assistant/Associate Studies from a UK university. Offering the flexibility of distance learning, this programme allows you to continue working professionally while pursuing your Masters.

Course Structure

The duration of the course will vary based on your pace of study. You have up to three years to complete and submit your dissertation, but it's also possible to finish the programme within one year.

Designed to build on your existing knowledge, this programme allows you to continue working as a PA while earning your qualification. It empowers you to drive meaningful improvements in your workplace and supports your professional growth. The valuable experience you gain can also be used to showcase your competencies within the HEE MAPs Core Capabilities Framework.

• 100% distance learning, allowing you to complete the programme around your clinical and other commitments.
• We’ve been training Physician Associates since January 2008, making us one of the most established programmes in the UK.
• Our team includes experienced Physician Associates, as well as scientific and research experts.
• We’re actively involved in the national development of the PA profession and are dedicated to supporting our students throughout their studies and into their careers.

The University of Birmingham is also ranked as the first choice for leading graduate employers in the UK.

Birmingham proudly hosts one of the UK's longest-running Physician Associate programmes, standing at the forefront of medical education!

We’re also the only university in the country to offer a unique ‘top-up’ MSc in Physician Associate Studies, allowing those with a PG Diploma to elevate their qualifications and expertise to the next level.

You’ll learn from world-leading academics and researchers at a top 100 UK university. From the outset we’ll challenge and encourage you to become an independent and self-motivated learner. 

This course consists of one taught module and a dissertation project.

• Taught module – this covers the techniques needed to critically appraise published research and carry out a piece of original research. The module is run by an experienced researcher, who provides support to students when producing their research proposal.
• Dissertation – this project could be in either an area relevant to Physician Associate practice or improvement to general healthcare. Most students align their research with their clinical practice, though this isn’t a requirement.
• Assessments – include a research proposal (research methods) and 10,000 word dissertation.

Research Methods Module

You begin the programme by undertaking the Research Methods module. This module gives an understanding of the philosophical and methodological bases of health research and will enable you to make informed and appropriate choices around research design and methods.

Dissertation

Once completed, you'll then begin your dissertation project. During this project you'll continue to develop your research skills, exploring a piece of worth that explores an aspect of clinical practice, healthcare policy, or sociology applied to healthcare or medical education. You'll further develop skills in critical appraisal alongside research design, methodology and analysis. You'll be guided by a dissertation supervisor throughout your study.

We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2026 entry are above.

The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.

Paying your tuition fees

Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.

Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.

Tuition fee deposits for international students

International students undertaking a postgraduate taught degree are required to pay a tuition fee deposit before an electronic Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) can be issued.

Postgraduate Masters loan

To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.

Scholarships

To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.

Birmingham Masters scholarships

We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.

Careers Network

Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.

Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.

From application through to graduation, we will support you throughout your exciting online learning journey. As one of the largest providers of distance learning in the UK, we offer you a prestigious online education that matches the on-campus experience, taught by our same expert professors and lecturers.