Published on: 19 September 2018
Last Updated on: 13 March 2019
With your bachelor’s degree in the bag, you will be faced with yet another big life decision: should you pursue a Masters full-time program or head into the labor market? There are many different reasons why individuals choose to study for a Masters. For the most part, though, the hope is that it improves your career prospects, and ultimately your wage premium.
Whatever your motivations may be, you might be torn at the prospect of halting your career hunt to pursue yet another degree. While there are certainly more than a few considerations that should go into this decision, we’ve provided some of the advantages of deciding in its favor.
Employability:
One of the most important reasons why you might choose to consider studying a full-time Masters is to improve your employability. If you are gunning for an academic role, a Masters degree is an important next step. A Masters is also an important step if you are looking to switch career paths or accelerate your career progress.
Wage Premium:
Higher educational qualifications generally necessitate higher wage premiums in different career environments. With a Master’s degree comes added qualification and skill set, positioning you for even more responsibilities in your work environment. It is important to note that some Master Degree holders enjoy parity with holders of bachelor’s degrees in higher-paying fields. However, your focus should be on your career of choice.
Deeper Knowledge:
Postgraduate programs, such as full-time masters programs, are mostly specialized in nature. If you have a genuine interest in your field and desire to gain even more theoretical and practical knowledge in this course of study, a master’s program will be beneficial. Specialization also improves your chances of career progression and improved wage premium.
Real World Knowledge and Networking:
One of the more specific advantages of pursuing a full-time Master’s program, not just a Master’s program, is the real world scenarios it prepares you for. Many schools send their postgraduate students out into the field for studies and invaluable work experience, exposing them to the real world work environment. This allows students at this level to gain practical skills applicable to the real world environment, while also providing you with a chance to build your network for the future.
Program Speed:
Yet another benefit of a full-time program is the speed of completion. Going part-time, whether in a physical institution or through an online course, may allow you to pursue the program according to your pace, but it also does well to ensure the program lingers and drags on. A full-time study for masters is usually completed between 1 – 2 years, accelerating your goal to acquire relevant knowledge and certification.
The question of whether you should pursue a master’s program is a very personal one. It is generally a cost-intensive venture, which means that you may be short on budget. Otherwise, you might be skeptical of committing such amounts without any assurances. However, programs like the BBS full-time master’s program ensure that you ultimately get great value for your financial, material and time commitments.
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The title "physician assistant" may evoke images of someone whose job it is to run professional errands for doctors to someone with little knowledge of the health sector. Physician assistants (PAs), however, are highly skilled individuals who are authorized to diagnose, track, and provide medication to patients.
Though the responsibilities of PAs and doctors frequently overlap, the degree of autonomy that each enjoys at work varies. Although PAs normally require a doctor's supervision to treat patients, doctors are legally permitted to practice independently.
There are other options for pursuing an advanced career in healthcare besides attending medical school or nursing school, as evidenced by the growing demand for PAs.
This article covers the steps involved in becoming a physician assistant, as well as typical specializations, salary ranges, and employment prospects for this field.
How Long Does It Take To Become A Physician Assistant?
Are you interested in becoming a physician assistant? Do you know how to become a pa? Are you wondering how long does it take to become a pa? Did you just google "What bachelor degree do I need for physician assistant?" This article will explain everything to you in detail.
Who Is A Physician Assistant?
Physician assistants, or PAs for short, are certified medical professionals who assist doctors in delivering care. They provide care as well as keep an eye on the health of patients alongside doctors.
While some states permit physician assistants to operate autonomously, the majority mandate that they remain under the direct supervision of physicians. PAs perform physical examinations, write prescriptions for medication, and administer tests. Additional duties for PAs are as follows:
Obtaining the medical histories of patients
Placing as well as evaluating diagnostic test orders
Assisting with medical operations
Directing patients to appropriate experts
Creating therapy programs
Offering patients preventive care advice
Track the advancement of your patients.
Carrying out clinical research
Physician assistants are employed in a variety of locations, including surgery rooms, outpatient clinics, hospitals, and doctor's offices. In addition to working in medical settings, PAs are employed by military institutions, sports teams, and educational institutions.
The majority of PAs have full-time jobs with flexible schedules that sometimes include weekends and holidays. Similar to physicians, they might have to work long shifts on short notice and be on call. PAs should be physically fit and have strong interpersonal skills because spending hours interacting with patients and coworkers can get tiresome.
How To Become A Physician Assistant?
Here are the steps to take before you can become a physician assistant.
Get Your Bachelor's Degree
Getting a bachelor's degree from a recognized university is the prerequisite for working as a physician assistant. Applications from a variety of backgrounds are usually accepted into PA programs, but a science-focused major is advised as it will enable you to apply undergraduate credits toward your PA requirements.
Acquire Patient Care Or Healthcare Experience (PCE) (HCE)
Prior to applying to graduate school, prospective physician associates (PAs) are advised by the American Academy of Physician Associates to obtain experience in healthcare or patient care. HCE describes employment, whether paid or unpaid, in which you may still interact with patients but are not directly in charge of their care. PCE, on the other hand, necessitates direct patient treatment.
At least 1,000 HCE or PCE hours are needed for most PA programs, and these hours are normally obtained after working in the health industry for about a year. A medical technician, paramedic, surgical assistant, dental assistant, hospice worker, physical therapy assistant, and phlebotomist are among the positions that satisfy the need for clinical experience.
Enroll In A PA Program With Accreditation
You can acquire the advanced knowledge required to pass the national certification exam and start working as a physician assistant by enrolling in a PA graduate program. Clinical anatomy, clinical therapeutics, histology, as well as medical principles are among the subjects covered in a PA program. Additionally, you might participate in clinical rotations or clerkships, which entail observing certified PAs.
For those who cannot attend in person, several colleges offer online PA programs. Concentrations are a common feature of these PA programs, enabling students to customize their degrees to meet their professional objectives. Moreover, geriatrics, family medicine, women's health, pediatrics, psychiatry, and general internal medicine are among the common specialties of PAs.
Through the Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA), students can submit their admissions applications. PA applicants must submit HCE and PCE records, college transcripts, recommendation letters, resumes, and personal statements to CASPA.
Before applying, make sure the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) has approved the program of your choice.
Obtain Certification
Graduates from ARC-PA-accredited programs are eligible to take the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE). The National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) is responsible for administering the exam.
The PANCE is a five-hour multiple-choice test designed to evaluate candidates' knowledge of medicine and surgery. To obtain a PA license in any state in the United States, one must pass the PANCE. States may have different requirements for other particular licenses.
How Long Does It Take To Become A Physician Assistant?
Usually, it takes at least seven years to finish all of the steps above. You will need four years to complete your undergraduate studies, followed by a year to obtain experience in healthcare and two years to finish a PA program. If you need more time to study for and pass the PANCE, or if you want to gain experience when moving from undergrad and grad school, then the path to becoming a PA may take longer.
Salary Of A Physician Assistant
As of May 2022, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that the median annual salary for physician assistants was $126,010. The industry, degree of experience, and place of residence all affect an individual's compensation.
Certain regions of the United States, such as Connecticut, New York, North Carolina, Nebraska, and Montana, have the highest concentrations of physician assistant jobs, putting them in great demand. According to BLS projections, employment for these professionals will grow by 28% between 2021 and 2031, which is nearly six times the projected growth rate for all U.S. jobs and three times the projected job growth rate for other health practitioners nationwide.
Specializations
Similar to nurses and clinicians, physician assistants can choose to specialize in different areas of healthcare based on their areas of interest as well as strengths. Moreover, the types of patients PAs work with, as well as the range of salaries they can earn, depend largely on their specializations.
The majority of PA programs provide elective courses and some mandate that students finish supervised clinical practice across several specializations. Before starting graduate school, we advise you to select your PA specialization so that you can enroll in a program that offers comprehensive instruction in your field of interest.
Here are some typical specializations for PA professionals and students.
Emergency Practice
In this specialization, PA aspirants learn how to assess, stabilize, and treat patients with life-threatening conditions. Students specializing in emergency medicine also gain skills for collaborating with urgent care teams and for presenting cases to physicians.
Pregnancy And Gynecology
PA students who choose this concentration will graduate with a thorough understanding of childbirth, midwifery, and the female reproductive system as a whole. They get training in giving women prenatal and postpartum care as well as family planning counseling.
Pediatrics
By providing ambulatory care for infants and children, pediatric PAs assist pediatricians. Students specializing in the pediatrician field gain the ability to assess typical pediatric issues, provide prophylactic care, and explain treatment regimens to patients' guardians.
Surgery
PA students can assess and oversee surgical patients through the surgery specialization. They gain knowledge on how to care for surgical patients both before and after surgery.
Mental Wellness
The treatment and support of patients dealing with mental health issues is the main focus of this specialization. Students in this specialty gain knowledge on how to perform mental assessments, track patients' progress, as well as recommend individuals to behavioral health professionals.
Certifications
Furthering your experience, profile, as well as career certifications helps you gain credibility. Here are a few you can check out.
PA-C
The primary certification for PAs is the Certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) credential, for which you must pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination. Three hundred multiple-choice questions, given in five blocks of sixty questions each, make up the five-hour PANCE exam. Between sessions, candidates can take 45-minute breaks.
Those who wish to take the PANCE must complete a program approved by the ARC-PA before taking it. Potential PAs have 180 days from the date of graduation to apply for the exam; however, they can only take the test beginning seven days later. After submitting an application and paying a $550 fee, NCCPA will email you an acknowledgment along with more details.
Additional Qualifications
NCCPA provides optional credentials for ten PA specialties in addition to the PA-C:
Cardiovascular and thoracic surgery
Dermatology
Emergency medicine
Hospital medicine
Nephrology
Orthopedic surgery
Pediatrics
Palliative medicine and hospice care
Psychiatry
Obstetrics and Gynecology
These qualifications are known as certificates of additional qualifications, or CAQs. They give PAs credit for their specialized knowledge.
Professional Organizations
While it's not necessary, becoming a member of a professional organization can help PAs become more credible and open up more career development opportunities. The two professional associations that were established to aid physician assistants are highlighted below.
The American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA) is the preeminent national organization for PA professionals. It was established in 1968. It encompasses more than 168,000 PAs in each of the 50 US states. The AAPA gives its members the tools they need to grow professionally and enhance patient care.
Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA) is the national organization for PA education. It helps academic programs attract and hold onto talented faculty members and PA students. Additionally, it offers a range of study resources for PA certifications.
Wrapping Up
Additional motivations to become a physician assistant include demand, high pay, work-life balance, autonomy, and job security. If you have the desire and passion to become a PA, then the amount of time it takes is unimportant. Your clinical experience and self-assurance will enable you to lead health care forward and improve patient health and well-being with the Physician Assistant Studies Program.
If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask how long does it take to become a physician assistant, then please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!
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After researching the fact, it has been seen that a nurse anesthetist is a highly professional and trained specialized healthcare professional. In this case, a nurse anesthetist administers anesthesia to patients undergoing multiple medical procedures. Many people have the same question as you: how to become a nurse anesthetist?
The job role of a nurse anesthetist is like that of a bakery. This means several steps are implicated, but every step is essential in making a delicious dessert. Conversely, you must gather the necessary ingredients, such as completing a Bachelor of Science and obtaining a nurse's license.
Nurse anesthetists are registered nurses with other training in anesthesia and related fields. In this case, registered nurses function as data scientists. Furthermore, they are responsible for monitoring other vital signs, adjusting levels, and supporting the patients before and after surgery.
The Step-by-step Guide to How to Become a Nurse Anesthetist For 2024:
Nurse Anesthetist involves a high level of independent decision-making. To become a nurse, you must prepare by receiving a thorough education and solid experience. Below, I will discuss the step-by-step guide on how to become a nurse anesthetist in 2024.
1) Get The BSN
The first step to becoming a nurse anesthetist is to complete a bachelor's degree in science in nursing. In this case, this undergraduate degree program typically takes four years to finish.
However, if you already have a diploma or an associate degree in nursing, then you might move more quickly through this program. While completing the BSN, it must maintain a grade point average of at least 3.0. It is a must to apply for the CRNA program, especially in the future.
2) Obtain A State Licensure as an R.N.
If you still need to be licensed as an R.N., you must obtain a nursing license. This will be applicable once you have completed your BSN degree. If you want to become licensed, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses.
Furthermore, you can take the NCLES in the state where you wish to practice nursing. In this way, you will become familiar with state requirements, especially for the initial licensing and renewal.
3) Gain Experience in an Accurate Care Setting
If you want to become a nurse anesthetist, then you must plan to work in an acute care setting. This would be applicable for at least a year before applying to become a nurse anesthesia program.
After that, every program requires a minimum of one year of nursing experience in acute care, and you would get several chances to accept becoming a nurse anesthetist.
4) Earn Your Master's Or Doctoral Degree
Nurse Anesthetists are advanced practice registered nurses. This means that they must earn a master's degree or any doctoral degree to practice. Currently, multiple programs accept candidates for the Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia.
It typically takes around two years to complete the master's degree or even any doctoral degree.
In this case, the minimum requirement to get employed as a CRNA is to pursue a doctorate in anesthesia practice. At the same time, CRNAs are also working with master's degree, which would continue working in the same role.
What are the requirements to earn your master's degree?
Proof of the valid R.N. license.
Make sure one to two years, you must run your career as an ICU RN.
Ensure you have earned a BSN degree.
Must earn a 3.0 GPA overall in BSN courses.
Ensure you have completed the required prerequisites.
It would help if you had job shadow experience with CRNA.
Make sure you have specialized certifications in Nurse Anesthetists.
Being a nurse anesthetist, you must check the background upon admission.
5) Become A CRNA
Once you finish the program to become a CRNA, you will have one final round to obtain the license.
The National Certification Examination is a computerized exam that takes about three hours to complete. On average, once you have passed the test, you are eligible to begin working as a CRNA.
Multiple clinical experiences are listed on your resume. In this case, it might differ considerably from that of other candidates. For example, consider shadowing a pediatric cardiac anesthesia team member, where you will get some highly specialized clinical experience.
What Are the Reasons for Becoming a Nurse Anesthetist?
Did you have any idea why you would consider yourself a nurse anesthetist? Below, I will discuss why you want to become a nurse anesthetist.
1) Rewarding
If you want to become a nurse anesthetist, you are pursuing a highly rewarding career like an artificial intelligence architect. In this role, you would get several work opportunities that would ensure patients that their surgical procedures are running smoothly.
Above all, it depends on your employment, which means you might work in faster-paced and high-stakes environments where you could help stabilize patients. Furthermore, this would prevent several other complications.
2) Challenging
Another reason to become a nurse anesthetist is to enjoy being challenged in the workplace. Above all, it can be an exciting career option. In this case, nurse anesthetists would also regularly offer physical and intellectual challenges.
Multiple professionals in this role often spend several hours of their day. Being fit and having stamina will help a nurse anesthetist perform a job better. This is also an excellent career for those who would love to enjoy multiple complicated problem-solving and analytical thinking.
3) Encourages Professional Development
Nurse Anesthetists commit to continuing professional development since there are multiple medical research changes where you can see how healthcare professionals approach their roles.
After researching the face, new medical research might reveal a safer procedure for delivering anesthesia to multiple other patients.
Additionally, multiple medical facilities might update their policies and procedures in response to new research to find several new solutions.
4) Flexible Scheduling Options
Multiple nurse anesthetists might have some schedule flexibility. Since numerous other patients make their appointments with surgeons and other nurse anesthetists. Aside from these, such professionals have options for choosing their availability, depending on the working environment.
5) Extensive Job Opportunities
Nursing Anesthetist is one of the most remarkable and high paying careers. If you want to become a nurse anesthetist, you will have many job opportunities. Based on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics research, nurse anesthetists' employment rate you were increased between 2020 and 2030. Advanced practice nurses who have extensive training will provide specialized care services.
6) Allows For The Independent Work
Advanced practice professionals and nurse anesthetists frequently function autonomously in their essential roles. There are other types of nurses who are different from nurse anesthetists. It means you don't have a direct supervisor or aren't required to work under the direction of any administrator.
However, they do typically work alongside other members of the surgical team. It includes the lead surgeon, supportive nurses, and so on, whose responsibilities are all to focus on giving a specific type of care.
7) Diverse Workplace Settings
Nurse Anesthetists can qualify to work in several roles and settings. In this case, they would most commonly work in multiple medical facilities such as clinics, hospitals, and others that might work in research facilities.
8) Various Career Options
Nurse anesthetists have many options, especially in workplace settings. However, most nurses work in health care as surgical support professionals, whereas others can directly choose to work in academics and research.
In this case, there are other alternative career options for nurse anesthetists. This means they will educate students looking to become nurses. Another option is to pursue a career as a medical writer, or you can work in any legal consultation role.
In Conclusion
I have already discussed the step-by-step guide to how to become a nurse anesthetist above in this article. Recently, nurse anesthetists must earn a high level of multiple credentials to permit their careers. These professionals typically begin by earning an associate's or bachelor's degree in nursing.
I hope you like this article. If you have doubts, then comment below!
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Many people don't have the time or energy to manage their own stock portfolios. Individuals and institutions alike outsource this job to a stockbroker. How to become a stockbroker will not be a matter of question if you follow the write-up in an effective manner.
If you're interested in becoming a stockbroker, know that the competition is fierce. Many people leaving school are looking to become stockbrokers. Do you have what it takes to make your way in this career?
Being a stockbroker isn't easy. You'll face long hours and need strong dedication.
If you think you can do it, give it a shot. Continue reading below to find out how to become a stockbroker. Slay the competition and join the ranks.
How To Become A Stockbroker?
The world of finance is one filled with glamourized notions of wealth and excitement. If you're successful, this could be a reality.
You should first think hard about this decision. This career isn't for everyone. Introverts and extroverts alike can find themselves with a successful finance career.
You'll face challenges, as the process of becoming a stockbroker is intense and demanding.
First, consider your skill set.
A stockbroker spends many hours of the workday on the phone. You'll need to be able to communicate well with clients and other traders.
Research is essential. You'll need an in-depth understanding of the stock market. You should be able to relay this information to your clients in a digestible fashion.
Let's talk about education. How
Required Education:
Often, stockbrokers don't need to fulfill any specific education requirements.
That doesn't mean, however, that you will get away without a college education. The competition is tight. A bachelor's degree is almost always necessary if you want to stand out.
A master's degree would be better. This will show your prospective employers that you've acquired additional skills and abilities.
You won't need to have a specific major, but a degree in finance or business will help. Think about degrees in accounting, business, economics, or finance.
Search Internships:
Many brokerage firms and investments banks offer internship programs. This will give you an opportunity to work in a finance environment. You'll have the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of the profession.
You'll have a higher chance of getting hired once you graduate. Think of an internship as a sort of extended interview.
Licensing:
To work as a stockbroker, you'll need to obtain the necessary licensing. To obtain the licensing, you'll need to pass two exams. These are the Series 7 and Series 63 exams.
These can be pricey but you can get a personal, business, or student loan for this purpose from NowLoan.co.uk or similar brokers.
The Series 7 exam covers the trading of different types of securities. Series 63 focuses largely on state laws and regulations.
You'll need to find a sponsor before you can sit for the exams. You'll probably need to get hired by a brokerage firm or investment bank before you take the exams.
They should be registered with the Financial Industry Regulatory Committee (FINRA) or another similar authority.
Some firms and banks may require additional certifications. You should ask about this during the hiring process.
Certain licenses and certifications will increase your chances and earning potential.
Other Considerations:
Becoming a stockbroker is no easy task. Potential hires are subject to harsh scrutiny. Different ways you need to consider how to become a stockbroker.
Background Checks:
Brokerage firms and investment banks will run a background check to examine your criminal and financial history. If you have a history of serious legal trouble, you'll be thrown out of the hiring pool.
If you have proven to be financially irresponsible, this will damage your chances. This means you shouldn't have any recent tax liens, repossessions, or bankruptcies.
Remember, you're interested in a finance career. Your job will be to give advice to clients about managing their investment portfolio.
If you can't handle your own finances, how can you be trusted to handle another's?
Finding a Firm:
Not all firms and investment banks are the same. Some are larger or smaller. Some work internationally.
Find one that fits your desires and personality.
New stockbrokers often find large firms to be intimidating. You'll be surrounded by people who know what they're doing.
Smaller firms are good for those who want a more communal feel. These environments tend to be a bit warmer. They also tend to offer higher commission rates.
The downside to a smaller firm is the size. The name is less-known. It may be more difficult to find potential clients.
Some firms allow you to become a sub-broker. Sub-brokers act on behalf of a brokerage firm but are not a member of one. Kotak Securities Franchise is one such company.
To do this, you must meet most of the same requirements as a regular stockbroker.
Working on Commission:
As a stockbroker, you'll get paid on commission. The client pays a commission on the trades you execute. It's up to you to build a clientele and gain confidence.
The commission from each trade will get split between you and the firm. Your firm may offer you a higher or lower commission rate based on the number of trades you execute.
If you execute more trades, you'll likely get a larger share of the commission. The firm has a vested interest in generating revenue.
Many firms increase their share of the commission if they generate more revenue. This acts as an incentive and a means of generating more business.
Dedication:
Many new stockbrokers back out of the game. You'll need to demonstrate a strong work ethic and drive.
The most successful stockbrokers are those who put in the hours and dedicate their soul to the profession. That's why you should be absolutely sure you want to become a stockbroker before you make the choice.
Getting Started In Finance:
The world of finance is somewhat enigmatic to the average citizen. If you're thinking about a finance career, you're probably already aware of some of the quirks.
This guide is meant to give you an introduction to the basics of how to become a stockbroker.
Take the time to think about the requirements and decide if this is a career for you. To find out more, check out our other finance-related topics.
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