Division of Physical Therapy

NYMC offers a Doctor of Physical Therapy (D.P.T.) degree that can be completed over 3 years of full-time study, including summers. A D.P.T./M.P.H. (Master of Public Health) dual degree option is available for students who take additional public health coursework while in the D.P.T. program, completing the remaining M.P.H. requirements in a fourth year of study. The D.P.T. program is designed to prepare competent and caring physical therapists to practice in a variety of settings, adapt to changes in the healthcare system, and be capable of critical thinking and autonomous practice.

The didactic coursework emphasizes a strong foundation in the basic sciences and the application of these sciences to evidence-based clinical practice. A major feature of the program is a problem-based learning format for clinical application courses. In this format, learning is promoted through small tutorial groups, lectures, and structured laboratory experiences that include working with patients. The problem-based learning approach provides an opportunity for students to fully participate in their learning, to integrate basic and clinical science with clinical skills, and to develop skills in the critical analysis of patient problems. In addition to didactic coursework, students have a total of 36 weeks of full-time clinical experiences in four different settings, developing and refining their clinical skills under the direct supervision of practicing physical therapists.

Another major feature of the program is the requirement for all students to complete a group doctoral project. Students select a project offered by faculty in an area of clinical research, teaching, or public health service. Close mentoring of students results in project outcomes and a manuscript that is acceptable for publication or presentation at a professional meeting.

Organized by D.P.T. students as a community service, the Race for Rehab 5K is a New York Medical College-sponsored event where proceeds benefit the International Achilles Track Club, whose members participate in the race, and whose mission includes encouraging persons of all abilities to participate in mainstream athletics.

The program admits full-time students only. Classes begin in June each year.

The DPT program is fully accredited, taught by expert faculty. Check out DPT events, and DPT outcomes. You can view our policies, college catalog and DPT student handbook at SHSP Policies.

D.P.T. Student Experience

The Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at NYMC is extremely rigorous and challenging. Our faculty are expert in their fields and their first priority is excellence in the education of physical therapy students. Our students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and clinical environments that promote the integration of the theory and practice of physical therapy. Our foundational sciences are taught by faculty of our School of Medicine and School of Basic Medical Sciences. Our human anatomy lab allows our students to perform full body cadaver dissection and our spacious clinical lab areas are accessible to our students 24 hours a day.

But we also believe that close professional relationships between faculty and students are crucial for effective education at a doctoral level. In addition to being assigned to faculty members for professional development and advisement and an open door policy exists between all students and faculty, the division strives to create opportunities for students to interact with faculty – and with each other – outside the classroom. The DPT barbeque, held each August, celebrates the First Year students’ successful completion of the Summer Semester. Our yearly flag football game provides an opportunity to blow off steam with a little fresh air and healthy competition. The Division of Physical Therapy White Coat Ceremony recognizes of the readiness of students to make the transition from the classroom to the clinic.

Contact Us

Division of Physical Therapy
School of Health Sciences and Practice Building
914-594-4917