CANTON -- Options for careers in health care have expanded for graduates of St. Lawrence University, with the announcement of an agreement with the graduate physician assistant program at Clarkson University.

Space will be made available for two qualified St. Lawrence graduates in each cohort of the Clarkson program, which leads to the master of science degree in physician assistant studies in 28 months.

Physician assistant is ranked number two on the list of "Best Jobs in America" by CNNMoney. An important part of the teamwork required in improving healthcare in the United States, the value of physician assistants has been demonstrated by numerous studies, which also point to a continuing need for qualified practitioners.

To qualify, St. Lawrence graduates must complete a series of required courses, and meet a number of other requirements.

Earlier this year, St. Lawrence formed a partnership with New York University's College of Nursing allowing qualified graduates to enter programs for a second bachelor's degree or master's degree in nursing. Additional medical profession options at St. Lawrence include its Early Assurance Program with the College of Medicine of the SUNY Upstate Medical University at Syracuse; an Early Assurance Program at the SUNY Buffalo School of Dentistry; and a pre-college matriculation early assurance program with SUNY Upstate Medical University (College of Medicine) for students interested in rural medicine.