The inaugural class of the University of La Verne’s physician assistant master’s degree program last month ceremonially began its academic journey by donning symbolic white coats.

The 22 students will spend the next two years working toward their degree and preparing to fill health care jobs in Inland Southern California.

Physician assistants are trained medical providers who diagnose illness, develop and manage treatment plans, perform medical procedures, assist in surgery, and write prescriptions, among other medical responsibilities.

The employment of physician assistants is predicted to grow 37 percent from 2016 to 2026.

– Contributed by University of La Verne