Physician assistant program achieves 98% PANCE pass rate

Campbell University's Physician Assistant (PA) Program is celebrating an outstanding achievement as the Class of 2025 earned a 98 percent first-time pass rate on the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE). This is the program's highest first-time passage rate since 2020 and is well above the national average of 92 percent.

Dr. Laura Gerstner, chair and program director of Campbell's PA program, credits the results to the combined efforts of students, faculty, and clinical preceptors.

"This milestone reflects the dedication of our students and the tireless support of our faculty and preceptors," said Gerstner. "We are proud to see our graduates enter the profession well-prepared to deliver compassionate, patient-centered care in communities across North Carolina and beyond."

For the Class of 2025, the accomplishment is deeply personal.

"This 98 percent first-time pass rate is a reflection of the strong bonds and mutual support among classmates throughout this challenging journey," said Sarah Calvert ('25 PA), Wallace Student Society president for the Class of 2025. "It speaks to the dedication each student brought and the invaluable guidance from faculty who believed in every one of us. I'm so very proud to be part of a class of such amazing humans that lifted each other up to achieve this milestone."

Since its founding, Campbell's Physician Assistant program has been dedicated to preparing students to meet healthcare needs across North Carolina and beyond through a patient-centered, clinically practical, evidence-based curriculum. The program has graduated 563 alumni serving in 37 states, with more than 72 percent living and practicing in North Carolina. Campbell graduates are prepared to lead with compassion, serve their communities, and excel in one of the fastest-growing healthcare professions.