May 20, 2025 — Marist University and Siena College have teamed up to launch a new direct admission program to Marist’s accredited Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. This initiative offers eligible Siena undergraduate students a streamlined process for early acceptance into Marist’s DPT graduate program.

Marist’s CAPTE-accredited DPT program is an industry-leading program that offers a comprehensive, 36-month curriculum combining in-depth classroom and lab instruction with extensive clinical rotations. With small class sizes and a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio, graduate students receive personalized attention from expert faculty. The clinically-focused curriculum includes hands-on experience with access to over 300 rotation sites nationwide and includes additional opportunities for international placements in Italy and Switzerland.

“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.

“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.”

The Doctor of Physical Therapy Lab at the Science and Allied Health Building. Photo by Carlo de Jesus/Marist University.

Siena students may apply to the Marist DPT Direct Admission Pathway at any time while enrolled at the college. Interested students should work with their health advisor to complete the interest form. Once submitted, the Marist DPT Program will contact students directly and assign a dedicated advisor to support them through the admissions process.

To qualify for direct admission upon graduation, students must meet specific eligibility criteria.

Marist already offers direct admittance to its Doctor of Physical Therapy degree for its incoming first-year students and currently enrolled undergraduates. Qualified students accepted to Marist may gain direct entry into the DPT program either in January following completion of their undergraduate degree or on an accelerated basis in which they complete their undergraduate degree in 3.5 years and enter the DPT program immediately in the spring semester, beginning in January.

Marist’s DPT program is dedicated to developing the next generation of physical therapists by providing the highest standard of education. Graduates are equipped to integrate hands-on skills, ethical care, clinical judgment, and critical inquiry to enhance the well-being of individuals across the lifespan.