GREENVILLE, Pa.—James E. Tkacik, D.M.Sc., PA-C was recently appointed the new Program Director for the Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies Program at Thiel College.
Tkacik has more than 35 years of experience working in the medical field, where he has held numerous roles at healthcare institutions across the country, including G&A Physician Services in Washington, D.C., Charles Cole Memorial Hospital in Coudersport, Pa., St. James Mercy Hospital in Hornell, NY, Olean General Hospital in Olean, NY, WellNow Urgent Care, Olean, NY and Allegany Family Medicine, Allegany, NY. Most recently, before being hired by Thiel, Tkacik was the Director of Clinical Education and a professor in the Physician Assistant program at St. Bonaventure University in St. Bonaventure, N.Y. In 2021, Tkacik was published in the Lynchburg Journal of Medical Science for his research on assessment tools as predictors of pass rates for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination.
Tkacik received his Bachelor of Science in medical science from Alderson-Broaddus College in Philippi, W.Va., in 1987. He later studied at St. Francis University in Loretto, Pa., where he earned his Master of Science in medical science. In 2022, Tkacik earned his Doctor of Medical Science from the University of Lynchburg in Lynchburg, Va.
Thiel College’s Physician Assistant Studies program began in 2021, with the mission of graduating physician assistants who have the disciplinary knowledge and skills, clinical preparation, and dispositions to provide excellent patient care and serve the needs of their community. Members of the program’s first cohort are set to graduate in August, while members of the second cohort were recently presented with their white coats to mark their completion of the first half of the 27-month program at Thiel.
About Thiel College
Thiel College is an independent college founded in the Lutheran tradition. Located in Greenville, Pa., the College offers 60 majors and minors, 24 varsity sports, and an 11:1 student-faculty ratio. The College is also home to a new Master of Science in speech-language pathology and 2Master of Business Administration. Both master’s degree programs offer innovative and accelerated five-year paths which allow students to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years. The speech-language pathology program also has an accelerated 15-month graduate-level program. The M.B.A. program also has a 12-month post-graduate program.A dedicated faculty paired with dynamic research and internship opportunities produce numerous graduate school and job placements. Coeducational from its beginnings, the College remains committed to combining tradition with innovation as it celebrates 150 years.