Physician Assistant vs. Engineer: What Are the Differences?

A career in the medical field or as an engineer can be both rewarding and challenging. If you’re interested in working in one of these industries, you may be wondering how these two professions compare. In this article, we discuss the similarities and differences between physician assistants and engineers, and we provide helpful information about each field.

What is a Physician Assistant?

Physician Assistants are medical professionals who provide patient care under the supervision of a licensed physician. They take medical histories, perform physical examinations, order and interpret diagnostic tests and provide patient education. Physician Assistants can also prescribe medications, assist in surgery and provide other types of treatments. They work in a variety of medical settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practices and research facilities.

What is an Engineer?

Engineers are problem solvers who apply the principles of science and mathematics to develop economical solutions to technical problems. Their work is the link between scientific discoveries and the commercial applications that meet societal and consumer needs. Many engineers develop new products. Others develop processes that improve production or designing methods that reduce costs. Still others develop or apply new technologies to solve problems in areas such as healthcare, manufacturing and transportation.

Physician Assistant vs. Engineer

Here are the main differences between a physician assistant and an engineer.

Job Duties

Physicians assistants and engineers share some job duties, like designing solutions to medical problems. However, their daily tasks differ because of the nature of their work. For example, a physician assistant might meet with patients to diagnose and treat illnesses. An engineer might also meet with clients or colleagues to discuss design solutions. Another key difference is that physicians assistants usually work to maintain patient health, while engineers aim to ensure product functionality for a certain amount of time.

Job Requirements

Physician assistants typically need to earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited PA program before taking the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) to become certified. Some states also require licensure. The length of these programs can vary, but most take about two years to complete. During their studies, PAs take classes on topics like human anatomy and physiology, medical ethics and pharmacology. They also complete clinical rotations in different specialties so they can learn how to provide care in various settings.

Engineers usually need at least a bachelor’s degree in engineering, although some jobs may require a master’s degree or higher. To become licensed, engineers must pass the Fundamentals of Engineering exam, which is administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying. After four years of professional experience, they can then take the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam to become licensed professional engineers.

Work Environment

Physicians assistants and engineers both work in a variety of environments. Physicians assistants often work in hospitals, but they can also find employment in private practices or other medical facilities. Engineers typically work in offices, laboratories or construction sites. They may travel to different locations for their projects, such as traveling to the site where they’re building a bridge or skyscraper.

The work environment for each profession depends on the type of job that you pursue. For example, an engineer who works with bridges might spend most of their time outdoors, while an engineer working in an office might spend more time indoors.

Skills

There are several similarities between the skills needed for a physician assistant and engineer. Both professions require excellent problem-solving skills, as they will need to be able to diagnose problems and find solutions. Both also need to have strong critical thinking skills to be able to evaluate different options and choose the best course of action.

In terms of specific skills, both physician assistants and engineers need to have a strong understanding of anatomy and physiology. Physician assistants also need to know how to perform medical procedures, while engineers need to understand how to use various tools and equipment. Both professions also require excellent communication skills, as they will need to be able to explain complex concepts to patients or clients.

Salary

Physician assistants earn an average salary of $106,398 per year, while engineers earn an average salary of $89,577 per year. Both of these salaries can vary depending on the type of engineer or physician assistant you are, your level of experience and the location of your job.