Christopher Barela

Christopher Barela is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Physician Assistant Program at Marist College’s School of Science, joining full-time in May 2020. Previously, he served as a preceptor and adjunct professor in the same program. He holds a DMSc from the University of Pittsburgh (2024), an MS in Physician Assistant Studies (with distinction) and a BS in Health Sciences from Mercy College (2007), and an AAS from Dutchess Community College (2004).

• Education:
• DMSc, University of Pittsburgh, 2024
• MS (PA Studies), Mercy College, 2007
• BS (Health Sciences), Mercy College, 2007
• AAS, Dutchess Community College, 2004

His research interests focus on Urgent Care medicine, Occupational medicine, and advancing education within the Physician Assistant profession. Before academia, he practiced clinically for 17 years in Urgent Care and Occupational Medicine settings.

• Awards:
• Pi Alpha National Honor Society
• Academic Excellence Award from Mercy College’s PA Program

Barela mentors students across educational levels and actively contributes to the program’s growth. He served in the U.S. Air Force Air National Guard for six years, leaving as a staff sergeant in 2005 to pursue medicine. Outside academia, he enjoys outdoor activities and resides in the Hudson Valley with his family.