DEFIANCE, Ohio, April 17, 2026 — Defiance College is creating new opportunities for students pursuing careers in physical therapy through a partnership with Daemen University that includes establishing an accelerated pathway to a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. The agreement introduces both “3+3” and “4+3” program options, designed to help Defiance students move efficiently from undergraduate study into a doctoral-level program in a high-demand healthcare field.
The partnership builds on Defiance College’s commitment to career-focused education by connecting its exercise science program to Daemen’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program. Through these pathways, up to 10 Defiance students per year - five in the 3+3 pathway and five in the 4+3 pathway - will have the opportunity to continue their education in a structured and supportive environment.
In the 3+3 pathway, students complete three years at Defiance College in exercise science with a pre-physical therapy concentration before transitioning directly into the three-year professional phase of Daemen’s DPT program, providing an accelerated route into advanced clinical training.
Students in the 3+3 pathway must meet initial admission requirements at Defiance College, including a strong high school academic record with coursework in science and mathematics. To progress into the professional phase at Daemen University, students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.8 and meet grade requirements in specified science courses. The 4+3 pathway offers an additional option for students who complete their bachelor’s degree at Defiance, allowing qualified graduates who meet Daemen’s admission standards to transition directly into the DPT program.
For both pathways, students must complete at least 60 hours of clinical experience under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist through volunteer work, shadowing, or employment in a physical therapy setting.
“This partnership represents an important step in expanding access to in-demand healthcare careers for Defiance College students,” said Dr. Olivia Lozar, associate professor of exercise science. “By connecting our strong foundation in exercise science with Daemen University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program, we are creating a clear and supported route for students to advance their education and achieve their professional goals.”
“This articulation agreement reflects a shared commitment to student success,” said Dr. Greg Ford, founding dean of Daemen University’s Scott Bieler College of Health Professions. “We recognize the strong preparation Defiance students receive and are confident they will be well-positioned to succeed in our Doctor of Physical Therapy program.”
The agreement reflects Defiance College’s ongoing focus on aligning academic programs with career outcomes and expanding opportunities for students to pursue advanced degrees in high-demand fields.