SUNY Potsdam

« Back to Recent News

SUNY Potsdam and Upstate Medical University Establish Articulation Program in Exercise Science and Physical Therapy

SUNY Potsdam and Upstate Medical University Announce 4+3 Program Leading to Physical Therapy Careers

Potsdam, NY (11/01/2024) — SUNY Potsdam and Upstate Medical University are excited to announce a new educational partnership, creating a seamless pathway for students to pursue a doctorate in physical therapy.

Together, the institutions have established a new early assurance program agreement to provide seamless pathways for students at SUNY Potsdam to secure their admission into Upstate Medical's in-demand College of Health Professions' Doctor of Physical Therapy program.

This partnership provides early admission to SUNY Upstate's Doctor of Physical Therapy program, as students earn their Bachelor of Science degree in exercise science at SUNY Potsdam, in the clinical track.

"We are thrilled to partner with Upstate Medical University to offer this unique 4+3 program. This articulation agreement provides our exercise science students with a clear and assured pathway to a rewarding career in physical therapy," said SUNY Potsdam Department of Public Health and Human Performance Chair Tanya Hewitt. "By combining rigorous academic preparation at SUNY Potsdam with advanced professional training opportunities at Upstate Medical, we are equipping our students with the skills, knowledge and experience they need to excel in the healthcare field. This collaboration underscores our commitment to student success and to meeting the growing demand for highly qualified physical therapists."

The 4+3 DPT Early Assurance program guarantees admission to Upstate Medical's Doctor of Physical Therapy program for SUNY Potsdam exercise science majors, provided they meet all conditions outlined in their acceptance letter.

Students in the 4+3 program will complete their bachelor's degree at SUNY Potsdam in the exercise science (clinical track) program, followed by two and a half years at SUNY Upstate to earn their DPT degree. The exercise science program also offers a strength and conditioning track.

SUNY Potsdam's Department of Public Health and Human Performance offers career-ready bachelor's degrees in public health and exercise science, plus its 100 percent online master's degree in public health. The department also has popular minors in wilderness education, therapeutic recreation and more. For more information, visit www.potsdam.edu/academics/SOEPS/department-public-health-and-human-performance.

About SUNY Potsdam:

Founded in 1816, The State University of New York at Potsdam is one of America's first 50 colleges -- and the oldest institution within SUNY. Now in its third century, SUNY Potsdam is distinguished by a legacy of pioneering programs and educational excellence. The College currently enrolls approximately 2,500 undergraduate and graduate students. Home to the world-renowned Crane School of Music, SUNY Potsdam is known for its challenging liberal arts and sciences core, distinction in teacher training and culture of creativity. To learn more, visit www.potsdam.edu.

###

Media Attachments

SUNY Potsdam and Upstate Medical University have established a new 4+3 early assurance program, allowing students in Potsdam’s baccalaureate program in exercise science to gain pre-admission to Upstate’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program.

Instructor Tanya Hewitt leads a personal training class in SUNY Potsdam’s Maxcy Hall Athletic Complex. Students in SUNY Potsdam’s undergraduate exercise science program can now get early assurance to enter Upstate Medical University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program.

Copyright © 2026 Merit Pages, Inc. • All Rights Reserved. • Terms of Service • Privacy Policy • Opt Out