Susquehanna University and Harrisburg University of Science & Technology have announced a new articulation agreement designed to create a clear pathway for Susquehanna graduates to pursue advanced study in HU’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program.
Through this agreement, effective immediately, Harrisburg University will reserve three seats in each annual Doctor of Physical Therapy cohort for qualified Susquehanna graduates. The collaboration aims to increase access to advanced clinical education and help address the ongoing shortage of qualified physical therapy providers in Central Pennsylvania and the United States.
“This partnership provides our students with a clear path to pursue their passion in the critical and growing field of physical therapy, while building on the broad skillset that is the core of a liberal arts education: critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving,” said Kathy Straub, dean of Susquehanna’s School of Natural & Social Sciences. “Combined with advanced clinical training, these strengths prepare our graduates to serve patients with both expertise and compassion.”
To be eligible for reserved seats, Susquehanna students must:
- Apply for admission to HU’s DPT program by March 31 prior to the start of the cohort.
- Graduate from Susquehanna University with a bachelor’s degree and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, including all necessary prerequisites.
- Complete HU’s DPT program application, including a goal statement and submission of official transcripts.
- Not enroll at another institution of higher education between their Susquehanna graduation and enrollment at HU.
- Enroll at HU within two years of graduation.
If the reserved seats are not claimed by March 31, they will be made available to other applicants and students on the waitlist. This agreement will remain in effect through August 2030, at which time it will be subject to renewal.
“This partnership reflects a shared commitment to developing the next generation of healthcare clinicians right here in Central Pennsylvania,” said Tonya Miller, PT, DPT, Ph.D., associate professor academic & program lead Doctor of Physical Therapy at Harrisburg University. “By creating a streamlined path for health science students to transition into our hybrid DPT program, we’re opening doors for students to grow, lead and make a meaningful impact in the communities they serve.”
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of physical therapists is projected to grow 11% between 2024 and 2034 – much faster than the average for all occupations. Overall, the BLS predicts as many as 13,200 openings per year for physical therapists over the next decade – many driven by retirements, exits from the workforce and an aging population.
This collaboration between HU and SU underscores a shared vision: strengthening educational opportunities, building strong regional workforces, and preparing the next generation of physical therapy professionals to serve with skill and purpose.
For more information about the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Harrisburg University, visit HarrisburgU.edu.
ABOUT HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY
Harrisburg University was recognized by US News & World Report as one of the nation’s most innovative colleges for 2025. HU is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and is a private, nonprofit university offering bachelor’s and graduate degree programs in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, nursing and other health science fields. For additional information about HU’s affordable, demand-driven undergraduate and graduate programs, please call 717.901.5146 or email . Stay updated by following Harrisburg University on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.
