100 percent pass rate for PTA national licensure exam
Published on August 14, 2024
NORTH EAST, Md: Cecil College’s PTA Class of 2024 has set a new benchmark for excellence in Physical Therapy Assistant education. With growing recognition as one of Maryland’s premier PTA schools, Cecil College’s Physical Therapy Assistant program proudly announces that 100 percent of its recent graduates passed the National Physical Therapist Examination (NPTE) on their first attempt.
“This accomplishment is particularly noteworthy as the NPTE underwent significant updates in 2024, introducing a more challenging format and content,” said Cecil College Physical Therapist Assistant Program Director Deanna Smith, PT, MPT. “This success underscores the strength of Cecil College’s robust curriculum and the dedication of its expert faculty, who are committed to cultivating top-tier clinicians.”
The PTA exam assesses basic entry-level competence after graduation from an accredited program. Cecil College’s PTA program celebrated the Class of 2024 with a White Coat Pinning Ceremony on May 16. The ceremony honored six students who have completed rigorous coursework and clinical training.
Cecil College launched the program in January 2015 with a five-year accreditation. The program received full ten-year accreditation in October 2021 due to its stellar outcomes.
Cecil’s PTA program rose to national prominence when 100 percent of its first five cohorts of graduates passed the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) on their first attempt. Additionally, on the most recent exam, the program graduates exceeded the national average in exam performance in all categories. The program maintains a 100 percent overall pass rate on the NPTE.
Members of the Class of 2024 who took the NPTE include:
| Name | Hometown |
|---|---|
| James Brindley | North East, Md. |
| Julia Coyne | Earlville, Md. |
| Jenna D’Amico | Lincoln University, Pa |
| Marissa Grigora | Abingdon, Md |
| Richard Kind | Townsend, De |
| Skylar Sheppard | Elkton, Md |
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the demand for PTAs will grow 32 percent through 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations, with the annual mean wage in the State of Maryland being $68,870. (Source: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physical-therapist-assistants-and-aides.htm)
If you are interested in career training as a physical therapist assistant that is cost and time-effective, reach out to Program Director Deanna Smith at DSmith@nullcecil.edu or pta@nullcecil.edu. The deadline to apply for admission into the program is October 31.