POUGHKEEPSIE, NY — 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.”

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.

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About Marist University: Founded in 1929, Marist University is a comprehensive, independent four-year institution that blends the liberal arts with pre-professional studies and emphasizes experiential learning to enrich classroom instruction. With campuses in Poughkeepsie, New York, and Florence, Italy, as well as more than 70 programs offering a variety of international study options, the University is a portal to the world and is devoted to nurturing a welcoming, inclusive community. Through six schools offering nearly 50 majors, Marist fosters the intellectual growth and well-being of its more than 6,000 undergraduate and graduate students. The University encourages students to explore beyond traditional academic boundaries, pursuing coursework and personal experiences that provide valuable occupational expertise and reflect their individual passions. Marist has been recognized as a top institution in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, The Wall Street Journal, The Princeton Review, and others.

Siena is a private, liberal arts college in the Franciscan and Catholic tradition. Located in Loudonville, New York, Siena is committed to providing the Education for a Lifetime for a new generation of leaders eager to create a more just, peaceful and humane world. This education empowers them through a transformative journey of intellectual, spiritual and personal discovery. Founded in 1937, Siena offers more than 40 majors, 80-plus minors, certificates and concentrations, and prestigious joint-degree programs in liberal arts, science and business. A wide range of student activities join with immersive service learning, research opportunities, extensive study abroad options and NCAA Division I athletics in providing more than 3,600 undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to prepare for a lifetime of making a difference.