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Accelerated PA Programs with the Highest Certification Exam Pass Rates

Accelerated PA programs are master’s degree programs that educate future physician assistants. These programs feature an accelerated pace that results in a shorter duration.

However, due to their fast pace, accelerated PA programs have their challenges. Candidates must have the determination and drive to complete them. Effective time management and study habits are a must for success, too.

But if you’re interested in pursuing a PA career, be sure to choose the right accelerated PA program. Of course, accreditation, academic quality, and affordability are crucial factors in your choice. Beyond these features, look for programs with the highest PANCE pass rates.

Why the emphasis on high PANCE pass rates? These are key indicators of their success in preparing students for exam success. Passing the PANCE is a critical step in earning the Physician Assistant-Certified credential.

In turn, the PA-C credential is a must to secure a state-issued license to practice as a PA. Importantly, all 50 US states and the District of Columbia require PAs to maintain an active license. 

Related:

What Is an Accelerated PA Program?

Accelerated PA programs have specific features unique to each of them. But there are certain common aspects among these programs, too.

Shorter time-to-completion

Traditional PA programs have longer completion periods of 27-30 months. Accelerated programs have shorter time-to-completion, usually between 18 and 24 months.

Faster pace for courses and clinical rotations

Candidates must be full-time students willing to meet a year-round schedule of studies. Depending on the program, candidates either tackle more courses per term or courses are taught at a faster pace.

As for clinical rotations, these are usually completed along with coursework. If not, these are shorter in duration but more intensive in their structure.

Again, determination and drive are vital traits to survive in a challenging environment.

But the challenges are well worth it when you’re enjoying the benefits.

  • Quicker entry into the PA workforce
  • Lower cost of attendance
  • Faster return on investment, thanks to a combination of quicker entry, lower cost, and higher salary

Besides, good things don’t always come on a silver platter. This is true when you’re interested in enjoying the six-figure salaries PAs enjoy.

Importance of PANCE Pass Rates in Choosing a PA Program

PANCE pass rates matter in choosing the best PA programs for these reasons:

  • These are key indicators of PA certification success among graduates. High pass rates means the programs have prepared candidates for exam success. Again, passing the PANCE is a crucial step toward state licensure.
  • These indicate an effective curriculum, strong faculty, and comprehensive clinical training. Candidates not only pass the PANCE. More importantly, they are ready for the real-world challenges of being PAs.

The national average first-time PANCE pass rate ranges between 92% and 95%, but it varies every year. In the 2022 and 2023 testing years, it was 92%, while it was 95% in 2020.

Here’s what you can do when considering accelerated PA programs with high pass rates.

  • Compare their first-time pass rates with the national average for at least 3-5 years. 
  • Consider the trends in their first-time pass rates. Are these increasing, steady, or decreasing? Look for either increasing or steady rates.
  • Put the numbers in context because class sizes and other factors will affect them.

Look beyond the PANCE pass rates, too. Consider the programs’ costs, accessibility, and alignment with your goals. A holistic approach will lead to a better choice in an accelerated PA program.

Top 5 Accelerated PA Programs with the Highest Certification Exam Pass Rates

Duke University – Accelerated PA Program

Started in 1965, Duke’s program is considered among the best PA programs for PANCE pass rates. Proof: The 5-year (2019-2023) first-time pass rate is 93%. 

Candidates who complete the program earn a Master of Health Sciences degree. But it isn’t an easy feat either, with its rigorous courses and clinical training. Faculty members, fortunately, provide excellent support, resulting in a high 97% graduation rate.

The program features a 109-credit curriculum. Candidates tackle a preclinical and clinical year.

Emory University – Accelerated PA Program

Emory is among the best accelerated PA school options due to its excellent exam preparation support. Candidates can access the online Board Review Course for home study. The course consists of video and audio lessons related to the PANCE.

No wonder Emory has high PANCE first-time pass rates over the years. The five-year (2019-2023) pass rate is 94% or above the national average.

Emory takes pride in its rigorous coursework and clinical rotations, too. Candidates prepare for success not only in the PANCE but in their PA careers. The program also features a robust community service component.

University of Southern California – Accelerated PA Track

USC offers among the top physician assistant programs with high first-time PANCE rates. The five-year average pass rate is 91% (2019-2023). Candidates who complete the program earn the Master of Physician Assistant Practice degree.

This is a full-time professional program where candidates must participate in all learning activities. The curriculum focuses on primary care in high-need areas and populations. There are extensive clinical rotations, including a 240-hour specialty training.

Candidates also complete an intensive exam preparation program.

Yale University – Online Accelerated PA Program

Yale’s high PANCE pass rates are among its main attractions for aspiring PAs. For its inaugural 2023 graduating class, it was a 93% first-time PANCE pass rate. Indeed, it may be a young program, but it’s making its mark.

Candidates earn the  Master of Medical Science degree upon program completion. This is a hybrid program with online classes, in-person clinical rotations, and three immersions. Candidates learn the knowledge and skills to become patient-centered professionals.

Yale offers excellent student support services, too. These include a student emergency aid fund and a mental health and wellness program.

University of Utah – Accelerated PA Program

The PA program certification rates at the University of Utah are impressive. For the Class of 2023, its first-time PANCE pass rate was 98% or higher than the national average.

This isn’t surprising as it has extensive practice, so to speak, being among the oldest PA programs. Plus, candidates take part in an intensive exam preparation program.

The university has also established a strong reputation in healthcare training. Candidates tackle rigorous courses and full-time clinical rotations. There’s also a master’s research project requirement. Graduates earn the Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree.

Preparing for Success on the PANCE Exam

The national PANCE first-time pass rates may be in the high 90s, but it’s considered challenging. Its comprehensive scope and emphasis on clinical reasoning are oft-cited reasons. There’s also the time pressure and test anxiety to complete the 300 multiple-choice questions.

Here are PANCE preparation tips that can make it less daunting.

  • The best PA exam preparation is to do well in your studies. Everything you need to pass the PANCE is covered in your courses and clinical rotations.
  • Use available study resources offered by your program. The best are official review books, PANCE preparation programs, and online courses. Check with your program for built-in review courses. Consider third-party programs, too, such as BoardVitals.
  • Adopt effective exam strategies. There is a minute for every question. Read the question carefully and choose the most likely answer.
  • Use practice exams to prepare for the rigor of the actual exam. Identify where you’re the weakest and work on them.
  • Create a study schedule and be consistent in following it.

Give yourself 3-4 months to study for the PANCE, too.

Key Skills and Knowledge Areas Covered in Accelerated PA Programs

  • Clinical and medical knowledge for diverse populations and healthcare settings. Diagnostic skills, pathophysiology and pharmacology, and patient care are topmost.
  • Communication skills are vital, too, because of the diversity of people PAs interact with. PAs interact with patients and their families, healthcare professionals, and community stakeholders. Role-playing exercises and simulated patient interactions are part of PA training.
  • Problem-solving skills enable PAs to respond to diverse issues effectively. Adaptability and critical thinking are part of these skills.
  • Teamwork and collaboration skills are vital, too. The healthcare industry emphasizes multidisciplinary teams. Aspiring PAs gain these skills through IPE interactions and team simulations.

Career Outcomes and Benefits of Completing an Accelerated PA Program

Physician assistants earned $130,020 in median annual wages (May 2023, BLS). The highest earners raked in more than $170,790 per year. Even the lowest earners took in $86,280 per year, or twice the median annual wage for all occupations.

There’s a high demand for PAs, too, with a 28% projected growth rate (2023-2033). Plus, PAs can choose a specialization that expands their career advancement opportunities. Primary care, emergency medicine, and pediatrics are popular.

Conclusion

Indeed, choosing an accelerated PA program with high PANCE pass rates will boost your career. But it’s also your responsibility to leverage your PA degree. Once you become a licensed PA, you have excellent opportunities to make a difference in individuals and communities.