UNTHSC Physician Assistant Studies program granted 10-year accreditation continuation
The Physician Assistant Studies program at The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth recently was granted a 10-year accreditation continuation, the maximum duration allowed.
The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, known as ARC-PA, awarded the accreditation after a thorough review process verifying compliance with its stringent educational standards. ARC-PA is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as the national agency for the accreditation of professional degree programs for physician assistants.
Since its inception in 1997, UNTHSC’s PA program, housed within the College of Health Professions, has consistently demonstrated academic and professional excellence. With the Physician Assistance National Certifying Examination, or PANCE, pass rates exceeding national averages and one of the lowest student attrition rates in Texas, the UNTHSC program has successfully produced more than 1,200 health care providers, many of whom serve in underserved communities.
“Our program continues to have PANCE pass rates higher than the national average and demonstrates the success of our faculty, staff and students through the accreditation process,” said Lauren Dobbs, chair and association professor of UNTHSC’s PA program. “We are excited to share this news.”
The next scheduled ARC-PA validation review is for September 2034, contingent upon continued compliance with the commission’s standards and policies.
UNTHSC’s Master of Physician Assistant Studies program equips students to meet the growing health care needs of diverse and underserved populations. The program emphasizes primary care medicine and prepares graduates to enter clinical practice as highly skilled physician assistants.
“The 10-year accreditation is a testament to the dedication and excellence of our students, faculty and staff,” said Dr. Glenn Forister, dean of the College of Health Professions. “I am incredibly proud of the hard work and collaboration that went into achieving this milestone, which reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering top-tier health care education. This accomplishment reinforces our mission to prepare the next generation of health care leaders who will make a meaningful impact in their communities.”
For more information about the Master of Physician Assistant Studies program and other programs in the UNTHSC College of Health Professions, go to www.unthsc.edu/college-of-health-professions.
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