PRCC makes top scores on physical therapist exam

The 15 graduates of Pearl River Community College''s physical therapist assistant program all passed the 2010 national exam required for licensure the first time they took the test.PRCC''s 100 percent score compares to a statewide passing rate of 83.02 percent and a national rate of 85.74 percent.Students in the two-year physical therapist assistant program at PRCC''s Forrest County Center spend 18 weeks in practical clinical experience in addition to lectures and lab work.”The curriculum is thorough and more than adequate for students to successfully complete the exam,” said Dr. Patti Crowson, program director.She and instructor Karinna Lee accept 21 new students annually from a waiting list of applicants.According to data from the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy, 94.12 percent of PRCC students taking the 2008 test for the first time passed and 94.44 percent passed on the first time in 2009.”This is continuing evidence of their hard work and the work of the students,” said Dr. Cecil Burt, dean of the Forrest County Center. “Dr. Crowson and Ms. Lee do an excellent job.”For more information on the physical therapist program, telephone 601 554-5486 or go to www.prcc.edu.