HARRISBURG, Pa. – HACC, Central Pennsylvania’s Community College, continues to uphold its reputation for academic excellence and workforce preparation, as evidenced by its exceptional program pass rates. These rates reflect the College’s commitment to delivering high-quality instruction that prepares students for career success and advanced educational opportunities.
“HACC’s impressive pass rates are not just numbers; they represent our dedication to student success and academic excellence in the classroom,” said Al Griswold, Ed.D., vice president of academic affairs and workforce development at HACC. “Each successful graduate reflects our employees’ commitment to preparing individuals for a meaningful career and future that positively impacts the Central Pennsylvania region.”
High Achievements Across Health Career Programs
HACC students in health-related fields continue to achieve remarkable success in licensure and certification exams:
- In the Massage Therapy Program, students have consistently maintained high pass rates above state and national averages. Between Jan. 1, 2019, and May 18, 2024, 81.8% of HACC students passed the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards exam on their first attempt. Nationwide, only 70% of students passed on their first try and only 75.9% of Pennsylvania students passed on their first attempt.
- Between Oct. 1, 2023, and Sept. 30, 2024, 96.8% of HACC’s nursing students passed the NCLEX-PN exam, which is geared toward practical and vocational nurses, and 91.7% passed the NCLEX-RN exam, which is for aspiring registered nurses. The Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing requires all associate degree graduates to take the exams.
- For the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program, 97.8% of students in HACC’s Nurse Aide Training Program passed the exam in 2024, 98.3% in 2023 and 89% in 2022.
- The Paramedic Program experienced a significant increase in pass rates between 2022 and 2024. In 2024, 97% of HACC students passed the paramedic National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians Exam for paramedics – up from 76% in 2023 and 78% in 2022. This success coincides with the program recently earning Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs accreditation, a prestigious recognition that ensures students are successfully prepared for careers in emergency medical services.
- In 2023 and 2022, 100% of HACC students in the Cardiac Sonographer Program passed their Sonography Principles of Instrumentation and American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography® exams.
- In the Dental Assisting Program, 100% of students passed their radiation health safety exam in 2022, 2023 and 2024. For the infection control exam, 100% of students passed in 2022 and 2024, with 94% passing in 2023. Finally, for their general chairside exam, 100% of students passed in 2024 and 2023, with 92% passing in 2022.
- For the Dental Hygiene Program, 100% of students passed the Commission on Dental Competency Assessments (CDCA) clinical test on their first attempt in 2024, with 94% passing in 2023 and 95% in 2022. For the CDCA written exam, 100% of students passed on their first attempt in 2022, 2023 and 2024.
- Between 2022 and 2024, students in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program have had 100% success on their first attempt for their sonography principles and instrumentation, abdomen and obstetrics and gynecology examinations.
- Students in the Medical Assistant Program experienced a 95% pass rate for their exams between 2022 and 2024.
- The Medical Laboratory Technician Program had a 100% exam pass rate in 2022 and 93% pass rate in 2023.
- Between 2022-24, the Respiratory Therapist Program saw 100% pass rates.
Preparing Students for Career Success
These outstanding pass rates highlight the effectiveness of the College’s programs in aligning with industry standards. These rates not only validate the quality of instruction but also enhance graduates’ employment prospects. Employers recognize that HACC graduates are well-prepared, making them competitive candidates in their respective fields. Additionally, for students pursuing further education or professional licenses, these pass rates serve as a testament to their readiness and previous completion of a rigorous program.
The College remains dedicated to providing students with a strong educational foundation that supports their aspirations, whether entering the workforce or continuing their education. As the College maintains high standards of instruction, it continues to attract prospective students and faculty seeking an institution committed to excellence.
About HACC
HACC, Central Pennsylvania’s Community College, is the first and largest of Pennsylvania’s 15 community colleges. HACC offers approximately 100 career and transfer associate degree, certificate and diploma programs to approximately 12,000 students. Also, the College serves students at its Gettysburg, Harrisburg, Lancaster, Lebanon and York campuses; through virtual learning; and via workforce development and continuing education training. For more information on how HACC is uniquely YOURS, visit hacc.edu. Also, follow us on X (@HACC_info), follow us on Instagram (@HACC_edu), like us on Facebook (Facebook.com/HACC64) and use #HACCNews.
