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The Physician Assistant Studies Department operates under the College of Medicine. This intensive 24-month graduate program awards a Master of Medical Science-Physician Assistant (MMS-PA) degree. Prospective students must finish four years of prerequisite studies at accredited institutions before undertaking two years of specialized training at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. A bachelor's degree is mandatory for enrollment. New cohorts begin each spring semester, with graduation following successful completion of four terms encompassing both academic coursework and clinical rotations. Training sites span multiple Tennessee cities including Memphis, Nashville, Chattanooga, and Knoxville. Given the scarcity of clinical placements in Memphis and other urban centers, students should prepare for travel expenses and temporary relocation during most of their clinical training. These rotations offer comprehensive exposure to physician assistant roles across diverse healthcare environments and regional settings.