Yes — an exercise science degree is one of the most direct, well-aligned pathways into physical therapy. If you’re majoring in exercise science and wondering whether it will set you up for a doctor of physical therapy program, the answer is a confident yes, with one important caveat: your major alone won’t get you in. You’ll still need to complete specific prerequisite coursework, hit GPA benchmarks, and log real clinical experience before you can apply.

In this guide, we’ll explain exactly why exercise science works so well as a pre-PT major, what it may not automatically cover, and how to choose the right physical therapist doctor program once your undergraduate foundation is in place — including what makes Dominican University New York’s program a strong option for applicants exploring DPT programs in New York.

What Is Exercise Science, and Why Does It Align So Well With PT School?

Exercise science is the study of how the human body responds and adapts to physical activity — covering exercise physiology, biomechanics, anatomy, and injury prevention. It’s considered one of the most natural feeder majors into physical therapy because so much of its coursework doubles as preparation for a doctor of physical therapy program.

According to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), exercise science is consistently one of the most common undergraduate majors among applicants to DPT programs nationwide, alongside biology and kinesiology. Many universities even offer dedicated “Exercise Science: Pre-Physical Therapy” concentrations, and some — though not Dominican University New York — offer accelerated 3+3 tracks that combine a bachelor’s degree with a DPT in six years instead of seven.

Why It Works

1. Deep prerequisite overlap. Exercise science programs typically include anatomy and physiology, exercise physiology, biomechanics, and often chemistry — subjects that form the backbone of nearly every DPT prerequisite list.

2. Hands-on, applied learning. Coursework often involves biomechanics labs, fitness assessment, and exercise prescription — practical experience that translates directly into the clinical reasoning skills you’ll build in PT school.

3. Built-in observation opportunities. Many exercise science programs place students in internships at clinics, sports performance centers, or rehab facilities, which can help satisfy the clinical observation hours most doctor of physical therapy programs require for admission.

4. Strong academic credibility with admissions committees. Because so many applicants come from exercise science backgrounds, PT school admissions teams are highly familiar with how to evaluate this coursework.

What an Exercise Science Degree Might Not Cover

Even with all that overlap, no undergraduate major perfectly matches every DPT program’s prerequisite list — and it’s a mistake to assume otherwise. Every program sets its own requirements, so it’s essential to check the specific list for each school you’re applying to. At Dominican University New York, applicants to the DPT Program must complete 11 prerequisite courses totaling 41 credits:

• Anatomy and Physiology I & II (with lab)
• Biology I & II (with lab)
• Chemistry I & II (with lab)
• Physics I & II (with lab)
• Psychology I & II
• Statistics

Exercise science majors often complete anatomy and physiology, and sometimes chemistry, as part of their core curriculum. But physics, a full year of biology, and psychology are frequently missing and need to be added as electives or completed post-graduation. You can review DUNY’s full prerequisite breakdown on the DPT Program admission requirements.

It’s also worth noting: some DPT programs won’t accept exercise physiology as a substitute for standard human physiology, so it’s worth double-checking course descriptions against your target program’s specific requirements before assuming a class “counts.”

GPA and Experience Requirements

Having the right major is only part of a competitive application. At DUNY, admitted students typically present:

• A minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA and 3.0 prerequisite GPA (the average accepted student GPA is 3.4)
• At least 60 hours of documented volunteer or paid experience in a setting where a licensed physical therapist is employed, with 100+ hours recommended
• Three letters of recommendation, including at least one from a licensed physical therapist
• A completed bachelor’s degree in any major before matriculating into the DPT program

Exercise science students often find it easier to accumulate these clinical hours, since internships and lab placements naturally put them in proximity to PT clinics, sports medicine facilities, and rehab settings.

Choosing the Right DPT Program After an Exercise Science Degree

Once your prerequisites and GPA are on track, the next big decision is where to earn your doctorate. If you’re an exercise science graduate searching for a DPT program near me in the New York area, Dominican University New York (DUNY) is one of the most respected DPT programs in New York, built specifically around flexibility and hands-on training.

A Weekend Format Built for Real Life

Unlike most traditional weekday DPT programs, DUNY’s schedule meets on eight alternate weekends per trimester (Friday through Sunday), letting students continue part-time work or manage outside commitments while completing their doctorate in just 3.3 years. The curriculum includes four full-time clinical rotations totaling 36 weeks. You can review the trimester-by-trimester breakdown on the Professional Sequence.

Proven Outcomes

• 100% employment rate for graduates within 6 months of graduation
• Board pass rates consistently at or above the national average
• Fewer than 35 students per cohort, meaning close mentorship from faculty

Manual Therapy Training That Builds on Your Exercise Science Foundation

Because exercise science students already understand biomechanics and movement analysis, DUNY’s hands-on, manual therapy-focused curriculum — including full cadaver dissections and instruction from faculty who are FAAOMPT-certified — lets students build on that foundation instead of starting from scratch. Full course details are available on the course descriptions.

An Extensive Clinical Education Network

With more than 500 clinical relationships, including placements at Hospital for Special Surgery, NewYork-Presbyterian, and Northwell Health, DUNY students graduate with hands-on exposure across a wide range of patient populations and practice settings. Learn more on the Clinical Education.

A Convenient Rockland County, NY Location

For students weighing physical therapy programs in Rockland County, NY, DUNY is located just 17 miles north of New York City and minutes from Bergen County, NJ — one of the more accessible options for applicants across the tri-state area. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE); details are available on the CAPTE accreditation.

How to Apply as an Exercise Science Major

Applications to DUNY’s DPT Program are submitted through the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS), not directly to the university. Since PTCAS verification can take up to three weeks, exercise science students planning to apply should begin organizing transcripts, letters of recommendation, and clinical hours well ahead of the early action deadline. Full application guidance is available on the main Physical Therapy program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is exercise science a good major for physical therapy school?

Yes. Exercise science is one of the most common and well-aligned undergraduate majors among applicants to DPT programs, largely because it covers exercise physiology, biomechanics, and often anatomy — subjects nearly every physical therapy program requires and builds upon.

Will my exercise science degree cover all the prerequisites for a DPT program?

Not automatically. While exercise science covers anatomy and exercise physiology well, most programs — including DUNY’s — also require general chemistry, a full year of biology, physics, and psychology, which aren’t always built into an exercise science curriculum. Always compare your coursework against your target school’s specific prerequisite list before assuming a course transfers directly.

Does exercise physiology count as human physiology for DPT prerequisites?

It depends on the program. Some DPT programs, including certain competitive schools, will not accept exercise physiology as a substitute for a standard human physiology course. Always confirm this directly with each program’s admissions office or PTCAS directory listing.

What GPA do exercise science majors typically need for DPT admission?

Most doctor of physical therapy programs set a 3.0 minimum GPA, though competitive applicants often present GPAs closer to 3.4 or higher. At DUNY, the average GPA among accepted students is 3.4.

Can exercise science internships count toward clinical observation hours?

Often, yes — provided the internship takes place under the direct supervision of a licensed physical therapist. DUNY requires a minimum of 60 documented hours (100+ recommended) in settings where a licensed PT is employed, so confirm your internship supervisor’s licensure before counting those hours toward your application.

Is the GRE required if I have an exercise science degree?

It depends on the program. DUNY does not require the GRE for admission, though scores can be submitted if available.

What’s the difference between exercise science and physical therapy as careers?

Exercise science is the academic study of how the body responds to physical activity, and can lead to careers in fitness, strength and conditioning, or corporate wellness. Physical therapy is a licensed clinical profession focused on diagnosing and treating movement-related impairments. An exercise science degree is an excellent stepping stone, but practicing as a PT requires completing a doctor of physical therapy program and passing the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).

What is the job outlook for physical therapists?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of physical therapists is projected to grow 11% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations — a trend driven largely by an aging population and rising rates of chronic musculoskeletal conditions. Full projections are available on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook for Physical Therapists.

Final Thoughts

An exercise science degree is one of the strongest, most natural academic pathways into a doctor of physical therapy program — but like any major, it doesn’t guarantee admission on its own. Success still comes down to completing every required prerequisite, maintaining a competitive GPA, and gaining real clinical experience under a licensed PT. Once those pieces are in place, choosing the right physical therapist doctor program matters just as much as your major did.

If you’re an exercise science student exploring DPT programs in New York or searching for a top-rated DPT program near me, Dominican University New York’s weekend-format Doctor of Physical Therapy Program offers proven outcomes, hands-on training, and a flexible schedule — right in the heart of Rockland County, NY.

Short answer: yes — and it’s one of the smartest, most common paths into the profession. If you’re currently majoring in kinesiology and wondering whether it will actually get you into a doctor of physical therapy program, you’re in good company. Kinesiology consistently ranks as one of the top undergraduate majors among applicants to DPT programs nationwide, thanks to its heavy overlap with anatomy, biomechanics, and exercise physiology coursework.

But a kinesiology degree alone won’t automatically open the door to physical therapy school. You’ll still need to complete specific prerequisite courses, maintain a competitive GPA, and log clinical observation hours. In this guide, we’ll walk through exactly how a kinesiology background sets you up for success, what gaps you may need to fill, and how to choose the right physical therapist doctor program once you’re ready to apply.

What Is Kinesiology, Exactly?

Kinesiology is the scientific study of human movement — how muscles, bones, joints, and the nervous system work together to produce motion. Coursework typically includes biomechanics, exercise physiology, motor learning, and anatomy, all of which mirror what you’ll study (in far greater depth) during a doctor of physical therapy program. Because of this natural overlap, kinesiology is often described as one of the most direct academic pathways into physical therapy.

Why Kinesiology Works So Well as a Pre-PT Major

1. Heavy overlap with DPT prerequisites Courses in human anatomy, exercise physiology, and biomechanics directly reinforce the science foundation that every doctor of physical therapy program builds on. You won’t be learning these concepts from scratch in grad school — you’ll be expanding on what you already know.

2. It’s one of the most common majors among PT applicants Kinesiology and exercise science majors make up a significant share of applicants to DPT programs across the country, according to data published by the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS). Admissions committees are very familiar with — and comfortable evaluating — kinesiology transcripts.

3. Hands-on, applied learning Many kinesiology programs include movement analysis labs, biomechanics assessments, and applied exercise testing — experience that gives you a head start when you move into hands-on clinical coursework during your DPT.

4. Built-in exposure to the field Kinesiology students often complete internships or practicums in athletic training rooms, rehab clinics, or fitness settings, which can double as the clinical observation hours most DPT programs require for admission.

What a Kinesiology Degree Won’t Automatically Cover

This is the part many students overlook: kinesiology coursework alone rarely satisfies every DPT prerequisite. Every program sets its own requirements, so it’s essential to cross-check your degree plan against the specific school you want to attend. Most doctor of physical therapy programs, including the one at Dominican University New York, require:

• Anatomy and Physiology I & II (with lab)
• Biology I & II (with lab)
• Chemistry I & II (with lab)
• Physics I & II (with lab)
• Psychology I & II
• Statistics

Depending on how your kinesiology program is structured, you may already have several of these built into your major — but chemistry and physics, in particular, are often missing from kinesiology curricula and need to be added as electives or during summer sessions. You can view the exact prerequisite list for DUNY’s program on the DPT Program admission requirements.

DUNY also has a helpful breakdown of how different undergraduate majors — including kinesiology, biology, and health sciences — line up with PT school requirements on its Choosing the Right Major for a Future in Physical Therapy page, which is worth reading alongside this guide.

GPA and Experience: What You’ll Still Need

Having the right major is only part of a competitive application. At Dominican University New York’s DPT Program, admitted students typically present:

• A minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA and 3.0 prerequisite GPA (though the average accepted student GPA is closer to 3.4)
• At least 60 hours of documented volunteer or paid experience in a setting where a licensed physical therapist is employed (100+ hours recommended)
• Three letters of recommendation, including at least one from a licensed physical therapist
• A completed bachelor’s degree, in any major, prior to matriculation

A kinesiology degree can make it easier to accumulate those clinical hours naturally, since many programs place students in athletic training rooms or rehab settings as part of their coursework anyway.

Choosing the Right DPT Program After a Kinesiology Degree

Once your prerequisites and GPA are on track, the next step is choosing where to earn your doctorate. If you’re a kinesiology graduate searching for a DPT program near me in the New York area, Dominican University New York is one of the most respected DPT programs in New York, and it’s built specifically with working, self-motivated students in mind.

A Weekend Format Designed for Flexibility

DUNY’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program meets on eight alternate weekends per trimester (Friday through Sunday), letting students continue part-time work or manage outside responsibilities while completing their doctorate in just 3.3 years. The curriculum includes four full-time clinical rotations totaling 36 weeks. Full details are available on the Professional Sequence.

Strong, Verified Outcomes

• 100% employment rate for graduates within 6 months of graduation
• Board pass rates consistently at or above the national average
• Fewer than 35 students per cohort for close faculty mentorship

Hands-On Training That Builds on Your Kinesiology Foundation

Since kinesiology students already have exposure to movement science and biomechanics, DUNY’s manual therapy-focused curriculum — including full cadaver dissections and training from faculty who are FAAOMPT-certified — allows students to build quickly on that foundation rather than starting over. You can review specific coursework on the course descriptions.

An Extensive Clinical Network

With more than 500 clinical relationships, including placements at Hospital for Special Surgery, NewYork-Presbyterian, and Northwell Health, DUNY students graduate with real-world exposure across diverse patient populations. Learn more on the Clinical Education.

Conveniently Located in Rockland County, NY

For students weighing physical therapy programs in Rockland County, NY, DUNY sits just 17 miles north of New York City and minutes from Bergen County, NJ — an accessible option for applicants across the tri-state area. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE); details are available on the CAPTE accreditation.

How to Apply as a Kinesiology Major

Applications to DUNY’s DPT Program go through the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS), not directly to the university. Since PTCAS verification can take up to three weeks, kinesiology students planning to apply should start organizing transcripts, letters of recommendation, and clinical hours well before the early action deadline. Full application guidance is available on the main Physical Therapy program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is kinesiology a good major for physical therapy school?

Yes. Kinesiology is one of the most common and effective undergraduate majors among applicants to DPT programs, largely because its coursework in anatomy, biomechanics, and exercise physiology overlaps directly with what physical therapy programs require and build upon.

Will my kinesiology degree cover all the prerequisites for a DPT program?

Not necessarily. While kinesiology covers anatomy and exercise physiology well, most programs — including DUNY’s — also require general chemistry, physics, and statistics, which aren’t always included in a kinesiology curriculum. Always compare your coursework against your target school’s specific prerequisite list.

Do I need a master’s degree before applying to a DPT program?

No. A doctor of physical therapy program is the entry-level degree for the profession. You only need a completed bachelor’s degree (in any major, including kinesiology) plus the required prerequisite coursework before matriculating.

What GPA do kinesiology majors typically need for DPT admission?

Most doctor of physical therapy programs set a 3.0 minimum GPA, though competitive applicants often present higher. At DUNY, the average GPA among accepted students is 3.4.

Can kinesiology internships count toward clinical observation hours?

Often, yes — if the internship takes place under the direct supervision of a licensed physical therapist. DUNY requires a minimum of 60 documented hours (100+ recommended) in settings where a licensed PT is employed, so confirm your internship supervisor’s licensure before counting those hours.

Is the GRE required if I have a kinesiology degree?

It depends on the program. DUNY does not require the GRE for admission, though scores can be submitted if you have them.

What’s the difference between kinesiology and physical therapy as careers?

Kinesiology is the academic study of human movement and can lead to careers in fitness, coaching, or research, while physical therapy is a licensed clinical profession focused on diagnosing and treating movement-related impairments. A kinesiology degree is a strong stepping stone toward becoming a licensed PT, but licensure itself requires completing a doctor of physical therapy program and passing the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).

What is the job outlook for physical therapists?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of physical therapists is projected to grow 11% from 2024 to 2034 — much faster than the average for all occupations, driven largely by an aging population and rising rates of chronic musculoskeletal conditions. Full projections are available on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook for Physical Therapists.

Final Thoughts

A kinesiology degree is one of the strongest, most natural pathways into a doctor of physical therapy program — but it’s not an automatic ticket in. Success still depends on completing every required prerequisite, maintaining a competitive GPA, and logging real clinical experience under a licensed PT. Once you’ve checked those boxes, choosing the right physical therapist doctor program matters just as much as your major did.

If you’re a kinesiology student exploring DPT programs in New York or searching for a top-rated DPT program near me, Dominican University New York’s weekend-format Doctor of Physical Therapy Program offers proven outcomes, hands-on training, and a flexible schedule — right in the heart of Rockland County, NY.

If you’re dreaming of a career helping people move, heal, and get back to the lives they love, you’ve probably already started asking the big question: what is the best major for physical therapy? It’s one of the most common questions students ask before applying to DPT programs, and the honest answer might surprise you — there isn’t just one “right” major. What matters far more is how well your coursework prepares you for the rigorous prerequisites of a Doctor of Physical Therapy program.

In this guide, we’ll break down the best undergraduate majors for aspiring physical therapists, the prerequisites nearly every physical therapist doctor program requires, and how to position yourself as a strong applicant for a DPT program near me — including what makes Dominican University New York’s physical therapy programs in Rockland County, NY, stand out.

Do You Need a Specific Major to Get Into a DPT Program?

Here’s the good news: most doctor of physical therapy programs, including DPT programs in New York, don’t require a specific undergraduate major. Admissions committees care much more about whether you’ve completed the required science and math prerequisites and maintained a strong GPA than about the exact name on your diploma. That said, certain majors naturally align better with DPT prerequisites, saving you time, money, and stress.

Top Undergraduate Majors for Aspiring Physical Therapists

1. Biology

Biology is the most popular choice among pre-PT students, and for good reason. A biology degree typically covers anatomy, physiology, and general science coursework that overlaps directly with DPT prerequisites, giving you a strong academic foundation before you even apply.

2. Kinesiology or Exercise Science

Kinesiology is often considered the most direct pathway into physical therapy. This major focuses on human movement, biomechanics, and exercise physiology — concepts you’ll build on daily in DPT programs. Many students find this major keeps them engaged because it’s so closely tied to the actual work of a physical therapist.

3. Health Sciences

A health sciences degree offers a broader, interdisciplinary foundation covering anatomy, physiology, and healthcare systems. This path is ideal for students who want flexibility in case they later consider a related healthcare field.

4. Psychology

Psychology may seem like an unexpected pick, but it’s incredibly valuable. Physical therapists work closely with patients through pain, frustration, and long recovery timelines. Understanding human behavior and motivation can make you a more empathetic, effective clinician.

5. Athletic Training or Sports Medicine

If you’re drawn to orthopedic or sports-related physical therapy, a background in athletic training gives you hands-on exposure to injury prevention and rehabilitation early on.

The bottom line: Choose a major you’ll genuinely enjoy and excel in, as long as it allows you to complete the required prerequisite coursework. A strong GPA in a major you’re passionate about will always outperform a mediocre GPA in a “trendy” pre-PT major.

The Prerequisites That Actually Matter

Regardless of your major, nearly every doctor of physical therapy program, including the one at Dominican University New York, requires a similar set of prerequisite courses. At DUNY, applicants to the DPT Program must complete:

• Anatomy and Physiology I & II (with lab)
• Biology I & II (with lab)
• Chemistry I & II (with lab)
• Physics I & II (with lab)
• Psychology I & II
• Statistics

That’s 11 required prerequisite courses totaling 41 credits. You’ll also need a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA and a 3.0 prerequisite GPA, along with 60+ hours of documented volunteer or work experience in a PT setting. You can review the full breakdown on the DPT Program admission requirements.

If your undergraduate major naturally builds in these science courses — like biology, kinesiology, or health sciences — you’ll have an easier, more efficient path toward application.

Why Choose Dominican University New York for Your DPT Program

Once you’ve chosen your major and completed your prerequisites, the next big decision is where to earn your doctorate. If you’re searching for a DPT program near me in the New York area, Dominican University New York (DUNY) is one of the most respected DPT programs in New York, offering a unique combination of flexibility, hands-on training, and strong outcomes.

A Weekend Format Built for Real Life

Unlike traditional weekday DPT programs, DUNY’s program meets on eight alternate weekends per trimester (Friday through Sunday), allowing students to keep working part-time or manage family responsibilities while pursuing their doctorate. The program takes just 3.3 years to complete and includes four full-time clinical rotations totaling 36 weeks.

Proven Outcomes

DUNY’s DPT Program consistently reports strong outcomes:

• 100% employment rate for graduates within 6 months
• Board pass rates that consistently outperform national averages
• Fewer than 35 students per cohort, meaning a genuinely personalized education

Hands-On, Manual Therapy-Focused Training

Students benefit from full cadaver dissections, expert faculty with real clinical experience (several are FAAOMPT-certified), and a Pro Bono PT Clinic where students treat real patients under licensed supervision. You can explore the full Professional Sequence curriculum and course descriptions to see exactly what you’ll study trimester by trimester.

Extensive Clinical Education Network

With more than 500 clinical relationships at institutions like Hospital for Special Surgery, NewYork-Presbyterian, Northwell Health, and NYU Langone, DUNY students graduate with exposure across a wide range of patient populations and practice settings. Learn more about the Clinical Education component of the program.

A Location That Works for You

DUNY is located in Rockland County, NY, just 17 miles north of New York City and minutes from Bergen County, NJ — making it one of the most accessible physical therapy programs in Rockland County, NY, for students throughout the tri-state area.

The program is fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE); you can review the CAPTE accreditation details directly on DUNY’s site.

How to Apply

Applications to DUNY’s DPT Program are submitted through the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS), not directly to the university. Because verification can take up to three weeks, it’s smart to apply early. You can find full details, deadlines, and requirements on the main Physical Therapy program, or reach out directly to the admissions team for guidance on your specific situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to major in biology to get into a DPT program?

No. While biology is a common and convenient choice because it naturally covers many prerequisite courses, DPT programs accept students from a wide range of majors — including psychology, kinesiology, health sciences, and even non-science fields — as long as all required prerequisite coursework is completed with a strong GPA.

What GPA do I need for a competitive DPT program application?

Most doctor of physical therapy programs require a minimum cumulative and prerequisite GPA of 3.0, though competitive applicants often present GPAs closer to 3.4 or higher. At DUNY, the average GPA among accepted students is 3.4..

How long does it take to become a physical therapist?

After completing a four-year bachelor’s degree, a DPT program typically takes 3 to 3.5 years to complete. DUNY’s weekend-format program takes 3.3 years, including 36 weeks of full-time clinical rotations.

Is the GRE required for DPT programs?

It depends on the school. DUNY does not require the GRE for admission, though scores can be submitted if available.

What’s the job outlook for physical therapists?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of physical therapists is projected to grow 11% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than the average for all occupations — a trend largely driven by an aging population and rising rates of chronic conditions. You can review the full data on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook for Physical Therapists.

Can I work while completing a DPT program?

It depends on the program’s format. DUNY’s weekend-based DPT program is specifically designed to allow students to continue part-time work, though the university recommends limiting outside work to under 20 hours per week given the program’s intensity.

What clinical experience do I need before applying?

Most programs, including DUNY, require a minimum of 60 hours of documented volunteer or paid experience under a licensed physical therapist, with 100+ hours recommended for a more competitive application.

Final Thoughts

There’s no single “best” major for physical therapy — the best major is the one that lets you thrive academically while completing the science prerequisites every DPT program requires. Whether you choose biology, kinesiology, health sciences, or psychology, what matters most is a strong GPA, hands-on clinical exposure, and choosing a physical therapist doctor program that fits your goals and lifestyle.

If you’re exploring DPT programs in New York or searching for the best DPT program near me, Dominican University New York’s weekend-format Doctor of Physical Therapy Program offers a proven path to a rewarding career — combining flexibility, hands-on training, and strong graduate outcomes right in the heart of Rockland County, NY.