Exercise Science B.S. / Doctor of Physical Therapy (3+3)

3+3 Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

SUNY Cortland has partnered with SUNY Upstate Medical University to offer a combined 3+3 program. This pathway allows students to earn both an undergraduate degree in Exercise Science from SUNY Cortland as well as a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) from Upstate in under six years. 

Program Structure

• Years 1-3: Complete undergraduate coursework in Exercise Science at SUNY Cortland
• Years 4-6: Pursue the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at SUNY Upstate Medical University

Join SUNY Cortland's contact list and Upstate's contact list to learn more. 

Admissions Requirements

• Submit your undergraduate application to SUNY Cortland.
  We recommend applying early action by November 15.
• Submit your graduate application to Upstate for early assurance admission.
  The deadline is February 1.
• Ensure you meet academic guidelines including 8 hours of observational experience (below). 

Academic Guidelines 

High school seniors who meet the following criteria will be considered for an interview for the 3+3 DPT program at Upstate:

• Recommended minimum unweighted High School Grade Point Average of 90% or higher.
• Four years of science and four years of math. Regents, Honors, AP, or IB courses recommended.
• Eight hours of observational experience with a Physical Therapist through participation in a Health Explorers Post, New Visions Program, shadowing or volunteer work is required.
  • Applicants can e-mail apply@upstate.edu updates of any shadowing completed after submission of the application no later than February 1.
• Applicants need to be able to articulate what Physical Therapists do and be knowledgeable about the field of Physical Therapy.

Career Outlook

The American Physical Therapy Association recognizes a Doctor of Physical Therapy as the gold standard in physical therapy education. The Doctor of Physical Therapy degree prepares graduates for licensure in states nationwide.

• Median Annual Salary (2023): $99,710.
• Projected Job Growth (2022–2032): 15% increase, significantly faster than average.
• Employment Settings: Hospitals, outpatient clinics, schools, sports facilities, and research institutions. 

Advantages of SUNY Cortland

• Ranked #1 SUNY university college by College Factual (2025).
• Nationally ranked in the top 3% for health, physical education, fitness, and recreation majors.​
• Recognized among the top 10% of colleges nationwide.

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