Ripon College signs affiliation agreement with Bellin College DPT program
Ripon, WI (11/13/2025) — Ripon College and Bellin College have established an affiliation agreement that provides Ripon students with an opportunity for early admission to Bellin College's Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program.
Under this agreement, Bellin College will reserve four seats specifically for Ripon College students who submit their applications by the priority deadline. The opportunity is contingent upon students fulfilling Bellin College's admission requirements and completing the application process.
"The Bellin College DPT program is proud to collaborate with Ripon College in developing this efficient pathway for students to enter our doctoral program," Bellin College Associate Dean of Physical Therapy Eric Chaconas said. "Both institutions have philosophies that are well aligned and we know by receiving a Ripon graduate into our DPT program, we are gaining an exceptional student that will make a positive impact on the physical therapy profession."
This partnership not only enhances the pathways for students seeking advanced studies but also strengthens the collaboration between the two institutions, fostering academic growth and professional development in the healthcare field.
"In an ever-evolving educational landscape, our collaboration with Bellin College marks a strategic shift that not only broadens the horizons for our students but also deepens our commitment to innovative partnerships," Vice President, Dean of Faculty and Professor of Philosophy John Sisko said. "This affiliation agreement enhances pathways to advanced studies in physical therapy, preparing our students for successful careers while reinforcing the strong ties between our two institutions."
Assistant Professor of Exercise Science Kelly Foust, DPT, said the profession of physical therapy is growing tremendously, noting a rising interest among students in this career path.
"We are excited to have this partnership with a great DPT program that not only shares our values for education, but also gives our students the ability to stay local for graduate school, as Bellin College is the only doctor of physical therapy program in Northeast Wisconsin," Foust said. "This partnership allows Ripon College to give students even more opportunities to meet their career goals and address a need in healthcare in our local communities."
The DPT Program at Bellin College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education.
Students interested in this opportunity should have their academic adviser contact the graduate admissions counselor at Bellin College to initiate the application process.
Ripon College's partnership with Bellin College highlights the College's dedication to providing its students with exceptional educational and career opportunities. The College also has a similar affiliation with Carroll University's DPT program.
For more information about the affiliation agreement requirements, visit the physical therapy pathways webpage.
About Ripon College: Founded in 1851, Ripon College is a private liberal arts and science institution nestled in Ripon, Wisconsin. Ripon College is dedicated to delivering personalized education through a diverse array of undergraduate programs and extracurricular opportunities, ensuring students enjoy a well-rounded college experience. Ripon College enrolls more than 700 students with a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1. The college's picturesque, historic campus and vibrant community provide a supportive environment where students can thrive academically and personally.
About Bellin College: Founded in 1909, Bellin College is a premier, private health sciences college offering three-year bachelor's degrees in nursing, radiologic sciences, diagnostic medical sonography, radiation therapy and surgical assisting, and graduate programs in nursing and physical therapy. A focused curriculum, extensive hands-on lab and clinical practice, leadership and service learning, and dedication to the values of Excellence, Integrity, Community, and Caring helps our students succeed academically and professionally. Learn more at www.bellincollege.edu.
Ripon College
Liz Taft, AVP of Marketing and Communications, tafte@ripon.edu, 414-303-1214Share this Story
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