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Introduction to the Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at Gannon University is a program designed for students to participate in a collaborative, experiential, and integrative course of study developing skills that prepare them for the highest standards of the scope of practice in speech-language pathology.

Program Overview

The Ruskin speech-language pathology comprehensive curriculum combines research and evidence-based clinical practice, infused with a strong multicultural component, and requires completion of six (6) semesters of didactic and clinical coursework. Graduate students will be provided with opportunities to work alongside faculty on clinical and community research projects and service.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Master of Science degree program in Speech-Language Pathology at Gannon University is to foster the development of highly skilled, compassionate speech-language professionals who are dedicated to lifelong learning, leadership, and person-centered service. The program provides holistic, evidence-based speech, language, and hearing education and healthcare for a diverse society.

The Gannon University Difference

Gannon University is a Catholic, Diocesan university with 100 years of rich tradition in academic excellence. This success has presented the opportunity to expand our graduate degree offerings in rehabilitative science through a face-to-face program at our Ruskin, Florida campus. With faculty who model the mission of teaching, service, and scholarship, students are provided direct supervision by the faculty as they learn hands-on clinical skills. Clinical experiences in the surrounding communities prepare students for holistic, patient-centered care.

Program Outcomes

The outcomes of the Speech-Language Pathology program at Gannon University are to:

• Advance the students' knowledge and skills to diagnose, provide evidence-based treatment, and serve as an advocate in the scope of practice of speech-language pathology.
• Apply knowledge of ethical standards and best practices in providing services for speech, language, and hearing disorders.
• Effectively disseminate information in verbal and written form and commensurate with the target audience.
• Identify and address the diverse and changing needs of the community with leadership and service.

Program Details

The program will provide:

• Content and clinical experience to prepare students to qualify for and be successful in achieving national certification and state licensure, and participation in state and national professional organizations.
• The Master of Science degree program in Speech-Language Pathology in Ruskin, FL is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (CAA).

Accreditation

The Master of Science (MS) education program in Speech-Language Pathology (residential) at Gannon University, Ruskin Campus, is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.

Admission Requirements

The program is designed as a full-time course of study. Transfers to the program will be considered on a case-by-case basis. A maximum of 6 credits may be accepted for transfer, if a grade of B or higher was achieved, and approved by the program director. Prior to matriculation in the program, students must complete and fulfill the following requirements:

• Baccalaureate degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders or completion of equivalent coursework from an accredited college or university
• Cumulative prerequisite course quality point average (QPA) of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale; Grades below a "C" are not acceptable.
• Overall undergraduate QPA of 3.0 or better (4.0 scale)
• Prerequisite courses, as shown below, must be completed within ten years preceding entrance into the graduate program.
  • Biological Sciences - 3 credits (e.g., Human Anatomy and Physiology, Introduction to Biology)
  • Social/Behavioral Sciences - 6 credits (e.g., courses in Psychology, Sociology, Public Health)
  • Physical Sciences - 3 credits (e.g., college-level Chemistry or Physics)
  • Statistics - 3 credits (e.g., college-level Statistics course that is computational and not remedial or historical in nature)
• Equivalent coursework includes a minimum of one course in each of the following six subjects:
  • Normal Speech and Language Development in Children
  • Anatomy and Physiology of Speech and Hearing Mechanisms
  • Phonetics
  • Speech and Hearing Sciences
  • Introduction to Audiology
  • Communication Disorders in Children and Adults
• Additional requirements include:
  • Personal interview
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Twenty-five (25) hours of observation of clinical practice by an ASHA-certified speech-language pathologist
  • Written Essay on a Topic Designated by the Program

Student Outcomes Data

Program Completion Rates:

• Graduation Year: Number of students completing program within expected time frame
• Percentage of students completing within expected time frame PRAXIS Examination Pass Rates of Test-Takers:
• Period: Number of Students Taking the Praxis Exam
• Number of Students who Passed the Praxis Exam
• Pass Rate Percentage

Faculty Experts

The program boasts a team of experienced faculty, including:

• Ahmed Abdelal, Associate Professor and Program Director
• Rita Lenhardt, Assistant Professor
• Deborah Scheble, Assistant Teaching Professor and Director of Clinical Education
• Emily Evans, Adjunct Faculty
• Stephanie Karidas Vilardebo, Adjunct Faculty
• Katherine Manrique, Adjunct Faculty
• Alysia Muoio, Adjunct Faculty
• David Regal, Adjunct Faculty
• Vilma Reyes Zayas, Adjunct Faculty
• Sarah Stanton, Adjunct Faculty
• Katherine Widdicombe, Adjunct Faculty

Conclusion

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at Gannon University offers a comprehensive and accredited program that prepares students for a successful career in speech-language pathology. With its strong focus on research, evidence-based practice, and multicultural competence, this program is an excellent choice for those looking to make a difference in the lives of individuals with communication disorders.