Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Physical Therapist Programs in Albany, Amherst, Babylon, Brookhaven, Buffalo, Hempstead, Huntington, Islip, New York City, and North Hempstead.
Ever wondered which Physical Therapist Programs in New York are worth your time?
This guide covers the top programs, helping you choose the best fit for your career goals.
From NYU Steinhardt to Columbia University, discover the programs that offer the best education, clinical opportunities, and career support.
Get started on your path to becoming a physical therapist in New York.
New York University (NYU) Steinhardt – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program
The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at New York University (NYU) Steinhardt is designed to prepare you for a successful career in physical therapy. The program emphasizes:
- Hands-On Training: Engage in supervised clinical practice to develop the essential skills needed for a competent practice.
- Knowledge Expansion: Learn about both the normal and abnormal structures and functions.
- Intervention Mastery: Provide interventions for patients of all ages facing various impairments and injuries.
- Health Promotion: Focus on promoting patient fitness, wellness, health, and quality of life.
- Research Application: Utilize research to support your practice, emphasizing the development of health policy standards linked to physical therapy.
- Professional Growth: Foster lifelong learning and professional development for a sustainable career.
The diverse student body is a testament to the program’s reputation and commitment to excellence. After graduation, you can explore several career paths, such as becoming a practitioner, faculty member, or supervisor in healthcare and private facilities. This program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) and is a member of the American Council of Academic Physical Therapy.
New York Institute of Technology – Doctor of Physical Therapy Program
The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at the New York Institute of Technology (New York Tech) offers a significant blend of comprehensive education and modern technology. It aims to prepare you for the dynamic healthcare environment with these features:
- Advanced Curriculum: Focus on injury prevention, treatment interventions, and holistic patient care.
- Case-Based Learning: Develop problem-solving skills through classroom lectures and peer collaborations.
- Experienced Faculty: Learn from board-certified clinical specialists in orthopedic, sports, neurological, geriatric, and pediatric care.
- Clinical Training: Gain hands-on clinical experience with 36 weeks of clinical education.
- Research Opportunities: Engage in research activities and global healthcare delivery initiatives.
This program’s quality is evident in its accreditation by CAPTE and high pass rates for the National Physical Therapy Examination. You’ll find varied career options, from professional sports teams and rehabilitation centers to schools and health agencies. New York Tech also provides an Orthopedic Residency Program for further skill refinement.
New York Medical College – Doctor of Physical Therapy Program
Explore the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at New York Medical College, a full-time, cohort-based curriculum that provides:
- Comprehensive Education: Learn both the art and the science of physical therapy.
- Expert Faculty: Study under faculty actively engaged in cutting-edge research and clinical practice.
- Clinical Excellence: Engage in clinical coursework taught by practitioners from top clinics like Westchester Medical Center and Burke Rehabilitation Hospital.
- Problem-Based Learning: Benefit from small group instruction to bolster your educational and clinical success.
Accredited by CAPTE, this program offers a combination of theoretical and practical knowledge, placing you in an excellent position to launch a career in physical therapy.
Touro College – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program
The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at Touro College stands out for its personalized and hands-on approach, featuring:
- Small Class Size: Benefit from individual attention and mentorship.
- Diverse Curriculum: Cover areas like neurological rehabilitation, cardiopulmonary care, wound treatment, and orthotics.
- Expert Faculty: Learn from specialists in neurology, orthopedics, pediatrics, and cardiopulmonary therapy.
- Extensive Clinical Placements: Gain practical experience through 38 weeks of full-time clinical opportunities.
Graduates from Touro College find themselves well-prepared and highly sought-after in the job market, with a 100% employment rate. The DPT program is CAPTE-accredited and offers robust skill development, ensuring a solid foundation for your physical therapy career.
University at Buffalo – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program
Embrace a unique learning experience with the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program at the University at Buffalo, featuring:
- 3+3 Curriculum: Complete all six years of your program at one university.
- Clinical Affiliations: Participate in five clinical affiliations throughout the three-year program, blending classroom and practical learning.
- High Success Rates: Achieve high graduation and licensure exam pass rates with a 100% graduation rate for the class of 2021 and a 95% first-time pass rate for the class of 2023.
- Affordable Tuition: Benefit from tuition rates that are more accessible compared to private institutions.
- Simulation and Competency Centers: Practice your skills with standardized patients in specialized training facilities.
Accredited by CAPTE, the University at Buffalo offers a well-rounded education that prepares you for a successful career in physical therapy.
Mercy College – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program
The Physical Therapy Program at Mercy College offers a thorough education for future physical therapists. This accredited program awards a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree and aims to transform you into a skilled professional through unique learning opportunities. You will appreciate:
- Small Class Sizes: Benefit from a personalized educational experience with individual faculty advisors.
- Weekend Curriculum Format: Attend full-time classes on nine out of fifteen trimester weekends, making it convenient for managing other responsibilities.
- Expert Faculty: Gain insights from experienced physical therapists from the region who specialize in lab instruction and lectures.
- Diverse Clinical Internships: Access over 200 facilities in the tri-state metropolitan area and beyond for practical, real-world experience.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Utilize Mercy College’s 12,000 square-foot simulation lab and Anatomage Table for advanced learning in human anatomy.
The program emphasizes evidence-based, patient-centered care across the lifespan and prepares you for the National Physical Therapy Examination, a requirement for licensure. Keep in mind, the program demands significant commitment, and working over 20 hours per week is not recommended. Familiarize yourself with the program’s specific prerequisites and financial considerations to ensure this is the right fit for your career ambitions.
Columbia University – Doctor of Physical Therapy Program
Columbia University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy Program is a prestigious program located in New York City. Known for its mission to foster a collaborative educational environment, this program offers:
- Long-standing Reputation: Capitalize on the program’s historical significance and renowned university name.
- Innovative Learning: Gain from robust post-professional programs like the Orthopedic Residency, Performing Arts Fellowship, and the Doctor of Education in Movement Science.
- World-Class Faculty: Engage with experts at the Department of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine.
- Diverse Clinical Practice: Benefit from a variety of clinical rotations at multiple locations, including Tarrytown and the Columbia University Irving Medical Center.
- Cutting-Edge Research: Participate in dynamic research opportunities and contribute to groundbreaking studies.
Accredited by CAPTE, the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Columbia offers a rich educational experience tailored to developing exceptional clinical and research skills.
Long Island University – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program
The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at Long Island University (LIU) provides a robust education aimed at preparing you for autonomous practice in various healthcare settings. This CAPTE-accredited program features:
- Balanced Curriculum: Integrate theory, academic knowledge, and clinical skills for comprehensive learning.
- Extensive Clinical Experience: Complete 35 weeks of full-time clinical experience in diverse settings, including inpatient and outpatient rotations.
- Dedicated Faculty: Learn from nationally recognized professionals and academic leaders in physical therapy.
- Research Opportunities: Engage in meaningful research in areas such as gait assessment, clinical instrument reliability and validity, health promotion, and alternative therapies.
- Rolling Admissions: Apply by March 3rd for entrance in 2025, meeting all prerequisite requirements and showcasing work experience in physical therapy settings.
With high graduation and employment rates, LIU Brooklyn ensures you’re well-prepared to excel in the physical therapy field.
Nazareth University – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program
The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at Nazareth University offers a distinctive educational experience through its integrated clinical education. Designed for academically strong students, the program includes:
- Early Clinical Exposure: Engage in hands-on learning from the first semester with faculty-supervised clinics.
- Specialized Clinics: Work in on-campus clinics that focus on a range of areas, including multiple sclerosis, neuromuscular diseases, orthopedic injuries, prosthetics, wellness, and pediatrics.
- Inter-professional Collaboration: Partner with occupational therapy, speech therapy, art therapy, and music therapy students in various clinics providing comprehensive care.
- Research Facilities: Utilize the motion analysis lab equipped with high-tech devices to conduct research on movement dysfunctions.
- Extensive Internships: Participate in four full-time clinical internships totaling 32 weeks at nearly 500 affiliated sites nationwide.
This CAPTE-accredited program prepares you for a wide range of professional settings upon graduation and provides the necessary tools for passing the National Physical Therapy Exam.
Physical Therapist Programs By State
Stony Brook University – Doctorate in Physical Therapy Program
The Doctorate in Physical Therapy Program at Stony Brook University offers a reputable education at both the Stony Brook and Southampton campuses. With almost 50 years of history and 1900 graduates, this program focuses on:
- Leadership Development: Cultivate evidence-based practice, critical inquiry, and clinical decision-making skills essential for autonomous practice.
- Student Success: Achieve high graduation rates, exceptional pass rates on the national licensing exam (NPTE), and impressive employment rates.
- Outstanding Outcomes: Benefit from a 2-year average of 100% employment and high NPTE pass rates (99% on Stony Brook Campus and 95.2% on Southampton Campus).
- Diverse Clinical Opportunities: Gain hands-on experience through the program’s varied clinical rotations and dedicated faculty and staff.
- Accreditation Excellence: Study in a fully CAPTE-accredited program, ensuring superior educational standards and comprehensive preparation.
The Stony Brook University Physical Therapy Program distinguishes itself through its commitment to academic excellence and outstanding student outcomes, making it an excellent choice for aspiring physical therapists.
Each of these programs provides unique features and strengths, helping you select the one that best aligns with your professional goals and personal circumstances. Make sure to thoroughly research each option to determine the best fit for your future as a physical therapist.