Correlation and predictability of science prerequisites and GPA/PANCE scores among five cohorts of Physician assistant students.

Abstract

The primary purpose of this study was to determine whether a correlation existed or a prediction could be made regarding PA graduates who had taken advanced undergraduate science coursework along with the required science prerequisites, and those that had not, and subsequent performance in the WSU PA program and on the PANCE. The hypothesis being that those who completed these advanced courses would have better problem solving abilities and better performance in the Program and on the PANCE. Study data was collected on 208 PA Program graduates from 2003-2007 who had taken the PANCE. The explanatory variables included graduating program GPA, PANCE scores, and completion (or not) of organic chemistry and/or biochemistry undergraduate course work. The sample was divided into two groups categorizing them based on completion of the standard prerequisites or the standard prerequisites plus organic and/or biochemistry. Point-biserial Pearson correlation no correlation between GPA and PANCE by group. Linear regression=no predictability of GPA or PANCE scores. Advanced courses (beyond standard prerequisites) were not correlated or predictive of PA program performance or PANCE scores.