Proven Success to Support Your Professional Goals
Discover how Dominican University New York’s DPT Program empowers students with exceptional outcomes and opportunities for growth.
98%
Ultimate PT Licensure Exam Pass Rate for graduates
100%
Employment rate of graduates within 6 months
3.3 Years
Time to Earn the Doctorate
100%
Of The Clinical Faculty Still Treat Patients
Over 500
Clinical relationships
Study on the Weekends
The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at DUNY is designed to offer flexibility while still providing a challenging education. Classes are held on eight alternate weekends each trimester, with full days on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. This weekend schedule allows students to continue part-time work, take care of family commitments, and pursue other interests.
The program also includes four full-time clinical experiences, totaling 36 weeks, scheduled Monday through Friday. These hands-on rotations are a key part of the program and provide valuable real-world experience.
While the weekend format gives students some flexibility, it’s important to note that the program requires significant study time. Students who work more than 20 hours a week often find it challenging to keep up with the program’s demands. Based on past experience, balancing a heavy work schedule with the intensity of the program can be tough, so we recommend limiting work hours to ensure academic success.
See why our students prefer to study on the weekend
The TOP 10 Reasons PT Students choose Dominican University
We asked, here’s what they said:
1
Weekend Format
Classes meet Friday to Sunday every other weekend. Work and pursue your degree simultaneously!
2
Learn Manual Therapy
Expert faculty teach intricate hands-on techniques
3
Expert Faculty
Professors are chosen not just for their qualifications but also for their experience and their teaching skills.
4
Our Graduates Get Jobs!
100% of our graduates are employed within 6 months.
5
Cadaver Dissections
Dissecting full cadavers as opposed to viewing pro section cadavers that have been dissected before-hand enhances the educational experience.
6
Diverse, strong, vibrant student community
Ongoing student/faculty interaction foster a collaborative learning environment.
7
Small student-to-faculty ratio
Fewer than 35 students per cohort.
8
Clinical affiliations
The University has clinical affiliations with institutions such as the Hospital for Special Surgery, Kessler, New York Presbyterian, Lennox Hill, and more.
9
Research publications and presentations
The faculty foster student development in research projects, resulting in publications and presentations at national Physical Therapy Conferences.
10
Our Campus
Centrally located within 17 miles of New York City in the heart of the Hudson Valley region, with access to public transportation.
Students Prefer Dominican University’s Weekend Format
See how the two formats compare:
| Dominican University’s Weekend DPT Format | Traditional DPT Format | |
|---|---|---|
| In Class | Fri – Sun Every other weekend (8 weekends per trimester) 3 days/week | Mon- Thur 4 days/week (Every week per semester) |
| Terms | 3/year on campus | 2/year |
| Classes Term | 3 – 4 | 4 – 6 |
| Weeks in Clinic | 32 | 32 |
| Length | 3.3 years | 3 years |
| Credits | 99 | 100 |
Physical Therapy Pro Bono Clinic
Established in 2019, the Dominican University Physical Therapy Clinic offers free rehabilitation services exclusively to students, faculty, and staff. Operated by graduate students from the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, the clinic functions under the direct supervision of licensed faculty members
Explore the Physical Therapy Program
Discover Dominican University New York (DUNY), located near NYC. Our Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program offers a unique, flexible weekend format that allows you to continue working during the week while pursuing your studies.
Dominican University combines affordability with excellence. Our DPT program features one of the most cost-effective private school tuitions in the Tri-State area, alongside small class sizes and a distinguished faculty.
What truly sets us apart is our faculty’s extensive patient care experience, which brings practical, real-world solutions directly into the classroom. With numerous board certifications and advanced training, our program consistently boasts a board pass rate above the national average, and a 100% job placement success rate.
Unique Program Features:
- Weekend Format: Designed for flexibility, our weekend program allows you to balance part-time employment, family responsibilities, and other interests. Classes meet on eight alternate weekends per trimester (full days on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday), with four full-time clinical affiliations scheduled Monday through Friday.
- Manual Therapy Oriented: Learn hands-on from expert faculty to integrate manual therapy with critical thinking for patient care.
- Pro Bono PT Clinic: Provide free physical therapy to underserved communities, gaining valuable practical experience.
- Clinical Experiences: Benefit from placements at renowned institutions such as Hospital for Special Surgery, Kessler, New York Presbyterian, Lenox Hill, Helen Hayes, NYU, and more.
- Diverse Student Community: Foster a collaborative learning environment through ongoing interaction with faculty and peers.
- Cadaver Dissections: Enhance your education with full cadaver dissections, providing a deeper understanding of human anatomy.
- Mission Trip Opportunities: Serve on a mission trip to Guatemala, delivering PT services to those in need.
For detailed admission requirements, please visit the PTCAS Directory page for Dominican University New York.
Admissions Overview
Applying to a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program is an exciting first step toward your future as a physical therapist. While the process can feel overwhelming at times, staying organized and giving yourself plenty of time can make all the difference.
Pay close attention to the details, follow each step carefully, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions—we’re here to help!
How to Apply
At Dominican University New York, you don’t apply directly to the Physical Therapy Program. Instead, all applications must be submitted through the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS). This centralized system streamlines the process and ensures that all required materials are submitted correctly.
To get started, visit the PTCAS Portal and create an account. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and give yourself plenty of time to complete your application.
Questions?
For Admissions: (845) 848-7908
For DPT Program Info: Annemarie Lee – (845) 848-6049
VERY IMPORTANT: All applications must be submitted and completed before the deadline to allow PTCAS sufficient time to verify your information. This may take up to three weeks, so plan accordingly.
| Early Action | Final Submit Deadline |
|---|---|
| Apply early to get your decision faster and secure your spot sooner. | Submit by this deadline to be considered for admission. |
| 9/15/25* | 2/15/25 |
Early Action Notification: Early October, 2025
Minimum Overall GPA of a 3.0
Cumulative GPA must be above a 3.0 and includes ALL college transcripts, not just your current institution.
Minimum Prerequisite GPA of a 3.0
Prerequisite GPA must be above a 3.0 and includes ALL college transcripts, not just your current institution.
Required Prerequisites (11 courses):
Science Courses:
- Anatomy and Physiology I & II (each 4 credits with lab)
- Biology I & II (each 4 credits with lab)
- Chemistry I & II (each 4 credits with lab)
- Physics I & II (each 4 credits with lab)
- Psychology I & II (3 credits each)
- Statistics (3 credits)
Bachelor’s Degree Requirement
A bachelor’s degree must be completed before matriculating into the DPT program. Applicants may apply with a pending degree, which must be conferred prior to enrollment. Upon successful completion of the Physical Therapy curriculum, students will be awarded a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree.
Complete Prerequisites
Science Courses (On Campus Only):
- Anatomy and Physiology I & II (each 4 credits with lab)
- Biology I & II (each 4 credits with lab)
- Chemistry I & II (each 4 credits with lab)
- Physics I & II (each 4 credits with lab)
Courses That Can Be Online:
- Psychology I & II (3 credits each)
- Statistics (3 credits)
Total Credits: 41
Coursework older than 10 years will not be accepted.
Volunteer/Work Experience in a PT Setting
All applicants must document a total of 60 hours of voluntary or work experience in settings where a licensed physical therapist is employed. These hours must be completed in diverse healthcare settings. While 60 clinical experience hours are mandatory, it is recommended to complete 100 hours.
Three (3) References
Your application will not be reviewed until all (3) required letters of recommendation are successfully completed. The three required letters of recommendation must include:
- One Physical Therapist
- One Professor
Personal Statement
PTCAS requires a personal statement. The prompt changes each year and is submitted through the portal.
GRE Policy
The GRE is not required. If submitted, use the DUNY PT-specific code: 2190 (do not use general DUNY code). Scores must be received by PTCAS at time of review.
This chart highlights key outcomes for the graduating classes of 2022 and 2023, showcasing the program’s success in areas such as graduation rates, employment, licensure, and board exam performance. The data reflects the strong and consistent performance of our graduates across both years, with impressive results in each category.
| Outcomes | Graduating Class 2022 | Graduating Class 2023 | 2022-2023 Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Class Size | 28 | 28 | 28 |
| % Graduates | 97% | 92% | 95% |
| Employed 6 months post-graduation | 100% | 100% | 100% |
| Ultimate Licensure Exam Rate | 96% | 100% | 98% |
| First Time board pass rate | 88% | 96% | 92% |
What is a typical overall GPA?
Average GPA score for accepted students: 3.4
What is a typical prerequisite GPA?
Average GPA score for accepted students: 3.4
Course Retake Policy
Up to 4 retakes are allowed. The highest grade will be used in GPA calculation. After 4 retakes, the original course grade is factored in.
Course Expiration
Coursework older than 10 years will not be accepted.
Online vs In-Person Courses
Science courses must be completed in person. Exceptions:
- Up to 2 online science courses with lab are allowed
- All prerequisites from 2020–2021 may be online with lab
- Spring 2020 pass/fail accepted for max of 2 courses
Overview of Pathways
Dominican University offers multiple tracks to prepare students for DPT entry. The chart below outlines key similarities and differences between internal and external pathways.
| Dominican University Programs that lead to Physical Therapy (Internal Applicant) | External Submissions (External Applicant) |
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 + 3 (BA in Biology: Pre-Med) | Health Sciences: Pre PT track | Pre- PT: Biology | Traditional | |
| Degree(s) Conferred | Bachelors of Arts in Biology Doctorate of Physical Therapy | Bachelors of Science in Health Sciences | Bachelors of Science in Biology | Bachelors of Arts or Science |
| When to Apply | High School | High School or Declare by Sophomore Year | High School or Declare by Sophomore Year | High School or Declare by Sophomore Year |
| Initial Requirements | High School GPA: ≥ 3.3 SAT: ≥ 1150 4 years of science (Bio, Chem, Physics, A andards are met | Yes if Dominican University student | Yes if Dominican University student | No |
| Total Credits | 120 undergraduate | 125 undergraduate | 120 undergraduate | Varies |
| Curriculum Sequence | See college catalog for specific sequence | See college catalog for specific sequence | See college catalog for specific sequence | Varies All prerequisites must be completed |
| Dominican University Physical Therapy Program Requirements That All Applicants Must Meet | DPT Prerequisites (11) Clinical Observation hours: (minimum 60, recommend > 100) 3 Letters of Recommendation (1 PT, 1 Professor, 1 duplicate or other healthcare professional) Essay Extracurricular Activities, Achievements, Community service GRE Highly Recommended | DPT Prerequisites (11) Clinical Observation hours: (minimum 60, recommend > 100) 3 Letters of Recommendation (1 PT, 1 Professor, 1 duplicate or other healthcare professional) Essay Extracurricular Activities, Achievements, Community service GRE Highly Recommended | DPT Prerequisites (11) Clinical Observation hours: (minimum 60, recommend > 100) 3 Letters of Recommendation (1 PT, 1 Professor, 1 duplicate or other healthcare professional) Essay Extracurricular Activities, Achievements, Community service GRE Highly Recommended | DPT Prerequisites (11) Clinical Observation hours: (minimum 60, recommend > 100) 3 Letters of Recommendation (1 PT, 1 Professor, 1 duplicate or other healthcare professional) Essay Extracurricular Activities, Achievements, Community service GRE Highly Recommended |
| Who to Contact | Katie Anderson katie.anderson@duny.edu Tel: (845) 848-4041 or Karl Rusch karl.rusch@duny.edu Tel: (845) 848-6046 | AnnMarie Dellipizzi annmarie.dellipizzi@duny.edu Tel: (845) 848-6009 | Regina Alvarez regina.alvarez@duny.edu Tel: (845) 848-6007 | PTCAS |
Required Prerequisites
| * Science (on campus only) | Credits | Lab | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Anatomy and Physiology (A&P) 1 | 4 | Yes |
| 2 | Anatomy and Physiology (A&P) 2 | 4 | Yes |
| 3 | Biology 1 | 4 | Yes |
| 4 | Biology 2 | 4 | Yes |
| 5 | Chemistry 1 | 4 | Yes |
| 6 | Chemistry 2 | 4 | Yes |
| 7 | Physics 1 | 4 | Yes |
| 8 | Physics 2 | 4 | Yes |
| Below can be online credits | |||
| 9 | Psychology 1 | 3 | N/A |
| 10 | Psychology 2 | 3 | N/A |
| 11 | Statistics | 3 | N/A |
| Total | 41 |
Contact Us
Annemarie Lee
Administrative Assistant & DPT Operations Coordinator
Tel: (845) 848-6049
annemarie.lee@duny.edu
Visit the DPT Program Website
| Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | $1,190 per credit |
| Graduate Audit Fee: | $750 per course |
| General Fees: non-refundable | |
| Application fee | $50 |
| Registration: Full-time (more than 12 credits) | $475 per term |
| Registration Part-time | $220 per term |
| Replacement of I.D. cards: | $20 |
| Graduation Fee: | $300 |
| In addition to the general tuition and fees described above, students should anticipate the following estimate of annual expenses associated with attending the College during the current Academic Year. | |
| Books | $1,500 |
| Transportation | $1,700 |
| Personal Expenses | $1,950 |
Benefits for Veterans
Dominican University is proud to be a military-friendly institution, offering strong support for veterans and their families. We participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program. Learn more here.
MBA Pathway for DPT students
Do you plan to manage a physical therapy practice or a hospital department? In today’s competitive job market, you need an edge. Understanding the fundamentals of financial management, and organizational practices are essential.
Our DPT program will prepare you for the real world while also offering you the opportunity to continue your education with a Dominican University MBA in Healthcare. Completing both degrees will give you the skillset for successfully integrating health care and business.
The MBA Pathway for DPT students provides successful graduates of our DPT program with the following benefits:
- Up to 6 credits of advance standing towards an MBA in Healthcare
- The option to earn an additional 6 MBA credits while still enrolled in the DPT
- Expedited admissions
- No GMAT
- No application fee
Clinical Education
Clinical Education is a significant and critical component of the professional physical therapy curriculum. It allows students to observe and be mentored by expert clinicians working in their respective specialized clinical settings. Dominican University has developed more than 500 clinical relationships with a wide variety of carefully selected well respected local, regional, and national facilities.
The physical therapy curriculum provides four full-time clinical experiences throughout the 10 trimesters, totaling 36 weeks. During these four blocks of clinical practice, each student will have experiences with patients/clients across the lifespan in a variety of settings that encompass a range of conditions from acute to chronic. The student’s clinical education experiences will provide them with the entry-level knowledge and skills they need in the general practice of physical therapy.
Additional Resources
We offer clinical experiences at the following institutions:
Our Location
The University is located in Rockland County, NY, just 17 miles north of New York City, and 3 miles north of Bergen County, NJ.
If you’d like to visit the campus and meet the faculty, please choose from among our many visiting opportunities.
Alumni Testimonials
Dominican University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program provided me with the tools I needed to start my own practice
John Gallucci - Medical Coordinator for Major League Soccer
The decision to pursue my goals at Dominican University was nothing short of a touchdown
Leigh Weiss - Assistant Athletic Trainer/Physical Therapist, New York Giants
Meet Our Faculty
Meet the expert faculty behind Dominican University New York’s DPT Program, all of whom actively practice in the field. Four faculty members are FAAOMPT-certified, with over 10 holding board certifications in various specialties, along with numerous additional professional certifications across the team.
Emil Euaparadorn
Office: (845) 848-6048
Location: Prusmack Center
Read Bio
Mark Amir
Office: (845) 848-6045
Location: Prusmack Center
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Stefanie DiCarrado
Office: (845) 848-7926
Location: Prusmack Center
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Ayse Ozcan Edeer
Office: (845) 848-7615
Location: Prusmack Center
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Duane Grell
Location: Prusmack Center
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Stephen Rodriguez
Office: (845) 848-6047
Location: Prusmack Center
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Karl Rusch, PT, DSc, DPT, ATC, CMPT, COMT, FAAOMPT
Office: (845) 848-6046
Location: Prusmack Center
Read Bio
Justine Ward
Location: Prusmack Center
Read BioMeet Our Administrative Team
Annemarie Lee
Office: 845-848-6049
Speak to us about applying to the Physical Therapy program at Dominican University today!
Inquiries
Contact us today for more information about the Physical Therapy Program at Dominican University.
Janet Barron
Assistant Director for Graduate Admissions
Phone: 845-848-7908
Email: janet.barron@duny.edu
Graduate Program Info Session
Applications
The Department of Physical Therapy at Dominican University participates in the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service, known as PTCAS. To learn more about the PTCAS application process, please visit the PTCAS web site.
The Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Dominican University is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; telephone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org; website: http://www.capteonline.org. If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call please call 845-848-6049 or email Emil.Euaparadorn@duny.edu.