MACON, Ga. — The Mercer University physician assistant (PA) studies program Class of 2026 achieved a 100% first-time pass rate on the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE), exceeding the national first-time pass rate by nine percentage points.
In addition to graduating from an accredited program, passing the PANCE is mandatory for state licensure and to earn the PA-C designation. According to the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA), which produces the exam, it “assesses the clinical knowledge, clinical reasoning and other medical skills and professional behaviors that have been deemed important for entry-level practice as a PA.”
Jennifer de la Cruz, program director of the Mercer University Physician Assistant Studies Department, said a 100% first-time PANCE pass rate is an exceptional achievement.
“It reflects the dedication, resilience and clinical preparation of our graduates. Our faculty are committed to preparing students not only to succeed on the national certification exam, but also to become compassionate, highly skilled physician assistants who are ready to serve their patients and communities. We are immensely proud of the Class of 2026 and excited to see the impact they will make across Georgia and beyond.”
The 69 graduates in the physician assistant program Class of 2026 represent one of Georgia’s highest-performing PA programs that consistently exceeds national first-time PANCE pass rates.
“Achievements like this demonstrate what is possible when talented students are challenged, supported and inspired by outstanding faculty and staff in a culture that values innovation, collaboration and excellence,” said Lisa Murphey Lundquist, Pharm.D., executive vice president for academic affairs and provost. “Student success is one of the clearest measures of a university’s impact, and the accomplishments of the PA Class of 2026 speak volumes about the quality of a Mercer education.”
Since its inception in 2008, the physician assistant studies program has graduated 919 students with a Master of Medical Science degree and consistently demonstrates exceptional student outcomes, including a 98.5% graduation rate for the Class of 2026 and national recognition for student leadership and service, with the American Academy of Physician Associates naming Mercer’s Godsey-Matthews Student Society the recipient of its 2026 Outstanding Student Society Award for exceptional community service, advocacy and patient-centered care.
Feature image: Mercer University’s College of Health Professions Physician Assistant Program Class of 2026. Photo by Rod Reilly
