Marist University and Siena College have announced a partnership to create a direct admission pathway for Siena undergraduate students into Marist’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. The agreement aims to simplify the application process and provide early acceptance opportunities for eligible Siena students interested in pursuing a doctorate in physical therapy.
Marist’s DPT program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) and spans 36 months. The curriculum includes classroom learning, laboratory instruction, and clinical rotations at more than 300 sites across the United States, with additional international placement options in Italy and Switzerland. Students benefit from small class sizes and a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
“We’re excited to partner with Siena College on this unique program that will give expanded access to Marist’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program and help grow the number of future healthcare workers needed throughout the Hudson Valley and beyond,” said Dr. Alicia Slater, Dean of Marist’s School of Science. “This initiative reflects our institutions’ shared commitment to academic excellence and student success, and it creates a clear, supportive path for students who aspire to become compassionate, highly skilled physical therapists.”
Siena College highlighted the value of this collaboration for its students. “This initiative enhances Siena’s already strong allied health advising,” said Suzanne Barry, DO, director of Siena’s Science Humanities and Medicine Program. “The longstanding reputation of Siena graduates—particularly their solid science foundation and preparedness for doctoral-level study—helped lay the groundwork for this collaboration. Through this agreement, students will also benefit from early mentorship by Marist DPT faculty, strengthening their preparation for graduate education.”
Students enrolled at Siena can apply to the direct admission pathway at any point during their undergraduate studies by coordinating with their health advisor. After submitting an interest form, applicants are contacted by Marist’s DPT Program staff who assign them an advisor to assist through admissions.
To secure direct admission upon graduation from Siena College, students must meet defined eligibility criteria.
Marist already provides similar direct admittance options to its own undergraduates and incoming first-year students. Qualified Marist students may enter the DPT program after completing their undergraduate degree or follow an accelerated route that allows entry into the doctorate program immediately after finishing their bachelor’s degree in 3.5 years.
The goal of Marist’s DPT program is to prepare graduates with practical skills, ethical standards, clinical judgment, and critical thinking abilities necessary for effective patient care throughout various stages of life.
