Marietta College is proud to announce a 97% first-time pass rate for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) among the 2023 graduates, continuing the program's tradition of excellence.
Out of 36 recent Master of Physician Assistant Studies graduates, 35 passed the national certification exam on their first attempt. This surpasses the national average first-time pass rate of 94% for accredited PA programs.
Also, 25 of the graduates had accepted full-time jobs with an average starting salary of $109,360 before they graduated on July 22. Another graduate has accepted a fellowship at Cornell University, and the remaining 10 graduates should accept full-time positions soon. Aligning with the program’s mission, 76% are practicing in an underserved area and 84% are in Ohio or Appalachian region.
“We are thrilled to maintain such excellent outcomes that demonstrate the strength of our program,” said Director Christi Gierhart. She credits the faculty, staff, preceptors, alumni, and the College community for enabling student success.
The PANCE is taken after 26 months of rigorous PA coursework and clinical rotations. A passing score allows graduates to practice as licensed PAs. Marietta's program regularly achieves 100% pass rates, with a 97% five-year average. A passing score allows graduates to practice as licensed Physician Assistants anywhere in the U.S.
“We are very proud of the tradition of excellence the Marietta College PA program continues to demonstrate to our students, community, and the PA profession,” Gierhart said.
With over 500 applicants competing for 36 seats annually, admission into Marietta’s PA Program is highly selective. The curriculum fully prepares students to deliver compassionate, quality care and thrive in this rapidly growing field.
Marietta College's Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies continues to produce talented graduates each year.