About
The Program
PANCE-The National Commission on Certification for PAs
Non-Discrimination Policy
The Program
The WMU Department of Physician Assistant (WMU PA) offers an entry-level, full-time, 24- month, professional education curriculum that leads to the Master of Science in Medicine. The first year focuses primarily on classroom and laboratory instruction and includes a component that addresses research issues pertinent to physician assistants. The second, or "clinical," year includes a variety of experiences in community teaching hospitals, clinics, and physician offices.
PANCE - The National Commission on Certification for PAs
WMU PA graduates are eligible to take the certification examination offered by the National Commission on Certification for PAs (PANCE), a computer-based exam which measures entry-level competencies and is required by all state licensing agencies. Successful completion of the PANCE allows the physician assistant to use the title of PA-Certified or PA-C.
Graduates of WMU PA consistently have pass rates and scores above the national average on the PANCE. Over the past five years, over 98% of WMU PA students have passed the PANCE on the first attempt. With questions related to WMU PA PANCE scores, contact eric.vansnes@wmich.edu .
Class |
Group |
Students |
Program |
NCCPA National |
| 2007 | All Examinations |
37 |
97% |
87% |
| 2008 | All Examinations |
34 |
100% |
89% |
| 2009 | All Examinations |
39 |
92% |
86% |
| 2010 | All Examinations |
35 |
100% |
88% |
| 2011 | All Examinations |
37 |
95% |
88% |
First Time Takers 5 Year Average: 98
All Examinations 5 Year Average: 97
Non-Discrimination Policy
Western Michigan University prohibits discrimination or harrassment which violates the law, or which constitutes inappropriate or unprofessional limitation of employment opportunity, University facility access, or participation in University activities, on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, protected disability, veteran status, height, weight, or marital status.