HIGH POINT, N.C., April 15, 2024 – High Point University has been acknowledged as one of the top 100 exceptional programs for physical therapy and physician assistant studies by U.S. News & World Report, further highlighting the achievements of the Congdon School of Health Sciences.
In the recent release of the 2024 Best Graduate Schools rankings by U.S. News & World Report on April 9, HPU secured the 74th position nationally. This recognition adds to the accolades received by the Congdon School of Health Sciences.
Physical therapists, known as movement experts, specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating movement disorders. They play a crucial role in assisting individuals affected by various health conditions, injuries, and disabilities, aiming to prevent mobility issues and promote overall well-being. Students enrolled in HPU’s Physical Therapy Department benefit from diverse hands-on learning experiences within cutting-edge facilities, including the Human Biomechanics and Physiology Lab at the Congdon School of Health Sciences.
Physician Assistant student Michela Schempf, alongside Dr. Michele Jedlica, an assistant professor in the Department of Physician Assistant Studies, are depicted examining a child at a local clinic.
High Point University’s Physician Assistant program holds the 65th spot among the top Physician Assistant Programs nationwide. Physician Assistants (PAs) are licensed medical professionals who serve in primary care as well as specialized medical settings. Collaborating closely with supervising physicians, PAs contribute to expanding healthcare accessibility and delivering patient-centered, evidence-based medical services. Graduates from HPU’s physician assistant program consistently achieve a 100% pass rate on the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE). The program equips students with access to state-of-the-art simulation labs on campus.
Both the Physical Therapy and Physician Assistant programs are housed within the Congdon School of Health Sciences. Dr. Kevin Ford, the school’s dean, expressed his pride in the national recognition of these programs, especially considering their relative newness.
The rankings underscore HPU’s commitment to healthcare innovation and the substantial growth in graduate programs. The university is preparing to welcome its inaugural class to the Workman School of Dental Medicine, the sole private dental school in the state. Additionally, plans are underway for the establishment of the School of Optometry, which will be North Carolina’s exclusive optometry school.
Dr. Nido Qubein, the President of HPU, emphasized the institution’s dedication to providing exceptional education and preparing graduate program students to lead in the evolving healthcare landscape, ultimately enhancing patient care outcomes.
Over the years, High Point University has witnessed remarkable progress under Dr. Qubein’s leadership, with significant transformations on campus. The university marked a historic milestone with the enrollment of over 6,040 students, the largest cohort in its century-long history. Data collected in alignment with the National Association of Colleges and Employers standards revealed that 99% of the Class of 2022 secured employment or pursued further education within 180 days of graduation, surpassing the national average by 14 points.
HPU’s commitment to innovation and student success has garnered numerous accolades, including being named the No. 1 Best Regional College in the South by U.S. News & World Report for the 12th consecutive year. The university’s continuous recognition in various categories such as Most Innovative Regional College, Best Undergraduate Teaching, and Best First-Year Experiences reflects its unwavering dedication to academic excellence and student welfare.
High Point University has also received recognition as one of America’s top academic institutions, maintaining its position for the seventh successive year based on student reviews. The Princeton Review highlighted HPU in several categories, ranking it among the top 25 nationally for Best-Run Colleges, Best Career Services, and Most Beautiful Campus. Additionally, the university’s game design program secured notable rankings, positioning HPU as a leading institution in the field.