HERKIMER, NY, August 22, 2024 — Six class of 2024 graduates of the Herkimer College Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program achieved a 100% pass rate on their July National PTA Licensing examinations. The determination, dedication, and accomplishment of these students is further demonstrated through their success in securing employment in their field.

Assistant Professor and Director of the Physical Therapist Assistant Program Elizabeth Pogonowski emphasizes the success, stating “The class of 2024 passed their national physical therapy examination this year… they should be recognized for their hard work and dedication! They all also have jobs, most of them had a job with a temporary license before they took their board exam.”

For over two decades, graduates of the College’s Physical Therapist Assistant program have experienced a 100% employment rate. The median annual wage for a physical therapist assistant was $64,080 as of May 2023, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The field is anticipated to grow 19% by 2032 with 24,300 openings for physical therapist assistants projected each year.

Herkimer’s PTA program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education. This dynamic program prepares dedicated students for a career as strong and skillful healthcare providers that can partner with and support a physical therapist. Graduates of this renowned program are highly sought after, with employers consistently in contact with the program recruiting our talented physical therapy assistants.

For students in this program, learning and skill development extend beyond the classroom with field trips and hands-on activities providing experiences that engage and empower the students. Herkimer College encourages local partnerships and experiences, with students in this curriculum enjoying clinical internships with local providers and facilities.

In the past, students have visited Springbrook in Oneonta for pediatrics insight, Sitrin Healthcare for aquatics experience, and MVHS for cardiac rehabilitation. Students also have had the invaluable experience of connecting and learning with other physical therapy professionals across the country at the American Physical Therapy Association’s national conference.

For more information on Herkimer College’s PTA program, or to apply, visit www.herkimer.edu/pta.

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Photo: Herkimer College Physical Therapist Assistant graduates during May 2024 Commencement. Pictured left to right: Carli Ann Brenon, Diana Rusev, Karie Bass, Leigh Ann Thistleton, Jason Luther and Dylan Jaklitsch. These dedicated graduates achieved a 100% pass rate on their Board Exams with a 100% employment rate.

About Herkimer College: Located in central New York State, just off the NYS Thruway exit 30 and situated in the foothills of the Adirondack Park, Herkimer College is one of 30 community colleges in the State University of New York (SUNY) system. Herkimer offers a quality and affordable educational experience and is ranked among the top two-year colleges in the nation based on transfer and graduation rates. Herkimer College offers a variety of associate degree and certificate programs in art, business, communication arts, criminal justice and law, education, healthcare and service, liberal arts and sciences, and STEM, and is a leading provider of fully online degree programs. The student body of approximately 2,500 hails from throughout the nation and several foreign countries. With on-campus housing for more than 600 students, a nationally ranked athletics program, and a variety of student activities, clubs, and events, Herkimer College students enjoy the complete college experience. Herkimer College is a fundamental contributor to the economic development of Herkimer County and the Mohawk Valley region. More information is available at www.herkimer.edu.