MHSA – FAQ

How can I get information about the MHSA Program?

• Website: bluefield.edu/anesthesiologist-assistant
• Auburn, Alabama Campus
  • Phone: (334) 442-4202
  • E-mail: [email protected]
• Spartanburg, South Carolina Campus
  • E-mail: [email protected]

Does the MHSA Program offer a part-time program of study?

• The MHSA Program is designed exclusively for full-time study.

Can I work during the program?

• Employment during the program is not permitted due to the academic demands of full-time study. Financial aid packages are designed to support students throughout the program without requiring employment.

What is the typical class size?

• Each program location admits up to 40–44 students per year.

When does the program start?

• Auburn Campus: The first week of June
• Carolinas Campus: The first week of September

Will simulation be part of the program?

• Simulation is integrated throughout the curriculum, beginning in Block 1. Sessions evolve from technical skill-building to complex case management, non-technical skills, and crisis response.

How will you help students maintain a positive work/life balance?

• Student health and wellness are a top priority. VCOM and Bluefield University offer resources including academic support, advising, peer counseling, and mental health services.

Is the MCAT or GRE required?

No. Entrance exams like the MCAT or GRE are not required for admission. However, applicants may choose to submit scores voluntarily for research purposes.

Can I apply with a C in a prerequisite course?

• Yes, but a grade of B- or higher is strongly recommended. Applicants may retake courses to improve their science GPA. Applications with all B- or higher grades will be prioritized.

Is a B- average acceptable in prerequisites?

• Yes, provided each individual prerequisite (including labs) is completed with a B- or higher.

How do I know if my undergraduate courses meet prerequisites?

• Review the Admission Requirements page. Courses must be at a four-year college level and for science majors (except English, calculus, and statistics). Survey or remedial courses generally do not qualify.

Can I apply before completing all prerequisites?

• Applicants may apply with a plan to complete outstanding courses before matriculation deadlines specified by each campus. A degree plan must be submitted, and all courses must be completed with a B- or higher.

Can I take prerequisites at a community college?

• Yes, if they are equivalent to four-year, science-major-level coursework.
• Note: Biochemistry and advanced statistics are rarely offered at an acceptable level at community colleges.
• A combined Anatomy & Physiology course may fulfill both requirements if completed with a B- or higher.

Do I need to submit transcripts from all schools I attended?

• All transcripts must be submitted. The admissions team focuses on science GPA and recognizes that academic performance may vary over time.

Does coursework over five years old still count?

• Generally, no.
• The five-year limit may be waived with an MCAT score of 500+ or GRE score of 300+, or for Tier 1 healthcare professionals. However, Biochemistry, Human Anatomy, and Physiology must always be completed within five years.

Will my statistics course be accepted?

• We accept advanced statistics courses (200-level or above). Introductory or survey-level stats courses are only accepted if accompanied by a non-introductory college calculus course.

Can previous healthcare coursework count toward the MHSA curriculum?

• The curriculum is fixed and must be completed in its entirety. Transfer credits from other graduate-level programs may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Do you give credit for prior clinical experience?

• No. All students must complete the full curriculum.

What are the application deadlines?

• Auburn Campus: Opens June 2, 2025; Closes October 1, 2025
• Carolinas Campus: Opens September 1, 2025; Closes January 23, 2026

If I’m open to either campus, which deadline applies?

• Applicants interested in either campus should apply by October 1 on CASAA. You can indicate your campus preference and provide a rationale within the application.

Is there an Early Decision option?

• Applicants who consider VCOM-Bluefield their top choice may apply Early Decision:
• Deadline: July 1, 2025 (for both campuses)
• Submit a letter of intent to [email protected]
• Meet GPA minimums (3.5 science and overall)
• Submit all materials and required recommendation letters by July 1
• Do not apply to other AA programs until a decision is made

Can I apply Early Decision to both campuses?

• Submit your letter of intent ([email protected]) for both campuses by July 1.

Does Early Decision improve my chances?

• Early decision results in earlier review of your application, but admissions criteria remain the same. ED is best for applicants who are fully committed to the MHSA Program.

Are interview spots limited?

• Interviews are competitive. Typically, 200 applicants are interviewed for 85 total seats across campuses.

When will I receive an admissions decision?

• Applicants are notified via phone within 30 days of their interview. A $1,000 non-refundable tuition deposit and signed confirmation letter are required to secure a spot. If we cannot reach you after three attempts, the offer may be extended to another candidate.

Is shadowing required?

• While not required for admission, clinical shadowing is strongly encouraged.

What does a typical shadowing experience include?

• Observing a single anesthesia provider in the operating room. It provides insight into daily responsibilities and the role of the CAA.

Does veterinary or dental anesthesia count?

• Veterinary shadowing does not count. Dental shadowing is only accepted if performed under a licensed anesthesia provider.

Can I submit a shadowing form from another facility?

• Yes, as long as it includes all required details and is verified by the supervising provider.

What if I can’t find shadowing opportunities?

• We may be able to connect you with contacts, but availability is limited and some may require a fee.

Where can I find the Anesthesia Shadowing Form?

• It is available for download on our website.

Are re-applicants considered?

• Yes, and they are encouraged to reapply.

Can I choose my clinical rotation location?

• Not entirely. Students may request regions but should expect to rotate through multiple locations nationwide.