This study examined correlations between two standardized critical thinking tests, the Health Science Reasoning Test (HSRT) and the California Critical Thinking Disposition Inventory (CCTDI), graduate GPA, and performance on the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) in a convenience sample of 42 physician assistant students. Positive correlations were found between GPA and PANCE scores (r =0.668, p＜0.01) and GPA and pre-program HSRT scores (r =0.423, p＜0.01). No other correlations were found. GPA was strongly associated with PANCE success and may be a useful way to identify students requiring remediation for certification preparation. HSRT was modestly associated with program success as measured by GPA; therefore, the HSRT may be a valuable tool in the program’s admission selection process.

Paper presented to the 6th Annual Symposium on Graduate Research and Scholarly Projects (GRASP) held at the Hughes Metropolitan Complex, Wichita State University, April 23, 2010.Research completed at the Department of Physician Assistant, College of Health Professions