Speech Language Pathology, M.S.

Return to the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders . 

The Master of Science (M.S.) degree in speech-language pathology requires 39 credit hours consisting of 34 coursework credit hours and 5 clinical practicum credit hours. Students begin their supervised clinical work in the University’s speech and hearing clinic with subsequent practica at various off-campus facilities. Speech-language pathology graduate students are assigned two offsite practicum placements during the last semester of their master’s program – one in a hospital and/or rehabilitation setting and one in a public school setting. All coursework, with the exception of the research paper and/or thesis, must be completed prior to beginning the offsite practicum.

Prospective speech-language pathology graduate students are required to begin the master’s program in the fall semester because coursework is sequential and comprehensive. Students are required to purchase and participate in an electronic portfolio system in order to help document competencies related to standards outlined by ASHA and an electronic system to track client contact hours and Simucase, which consists of virtual case studies in speech-language pathology. In addition, students must successfully complete a comprehensive examination to qualify for graduation with an M.S. in speech-language pathology.

Admission

Admission requirements for graduate study in speech-language pathology include:

• A baccalaureate degree from an accredited university;
• An undergraduate grade point average of at least 3.0;
• An undergraduate grade point average of at least 3.5 in courses in communication disorders;
• An official copy of scores from the GRE General Test submitted to the Graduate School;
• Two letters of recommendation; 
• Admission to the Graduate School; and
• Be able to provide current vaccination records and pass a criminal background check.

Students who do not meet these requirements may be considered for provisional or probationary admissions at the discretion of the graduate program advisor and faculty of the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders . Students lacking a bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology must complete undergraduate leveling courses in the discipline before being considered for admission to the graduate program.