Christopher Barela joined the Physician Assistant Program full-time in May 2020. Before that, he was a preceptor and adjunct professor for the PA program. He earned his Master of Science (MS) in Physician Assistant Studies from Mercy University (formerly Mercy College) in 2007 and a Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) from the University of Pittsburgh in 2024. Christopher practiced clinically for 17 years in Urgent Care and Occupational Medicine. He enjoys teaching and mentoring students at all levels of education. Christopher grew up in the Hudson Valley and still lives locally with his family. He enjoys being active and outdoor activities when not in class. 

Christopher served six years in the U.S. Air Force Air National Guard as a Security Forces Journeyman. He left the military in 2005 as a staff sergeant to pursue a career in medicine.
 

Education:

DMSc, University of Pittsburgh, 2024

MS with distinction, Physician Assistant Studies, Mercy College, 2007

BS, Health Sciences, Mercy College 2007

AAS with honors, Dutchess Community College, 2004

Areas of Focus/Intrest:

Urgent Care medicine

Occupational medicine

Education within the Physician Assistant profession

Awards/Certifications:

Pi Alpha National Honor Society

Academic Excellence Award, Mercy College Physician Assistant Program

National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants

New York State Licensed

New York State Worker’s Compensation Board