Program Overview

MS, Speech-Language Pathology

The MS in Speech-Language Pathology provides an in-depth study of communication and swallowing disorders, preparing students for a rewarding career as a speech-language pathologist. The program explores topics such as articulation and phonological disorders, stuttering, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), voice and swallowing disorders, neurogenic communication disorders, hearing and language disorders, as well as the social and cognitive aspects of communication.

Program Overview

Through coursework and hands-on clinical experiences, students learn to assess and support individuals across the lifespan using an evidence-based, ethical, and culturally responsive approach.

Program Pathways

The program offers three pathways to the MS degree:

• On-Campus Program: A traditional, in-person experience with classes on campus, close faculty interaction, and clinical placements in the community.
• On-Campus Extended Program: A traditional on-campus program with a leveling year for those without a Bachelor's in Communicative Disorders & Sciences (or related field).
• Online SPEAKS Program: A flexible, online format designed for students who need to balance graduate study with work, family, or distance, including interactive online coursework and supervised clinical training in the local community.

Program Details

By the time of graduation, students are ready to take the next steps toward professional practice and are eligible to apply for certification through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), pursue California state licensure, and earn the California Speech-Language-Hearing Services credential.

Program Structure

The program details are as follows:

• On-campus Program: Full-time, in-person, 66 units, starts in Fall, 2 years.
• On-campus Extended Program: Full-time, in-person, 99 units (33 units of leveling classes, 66 graduate courses), starts in Fall, 3 years.
• Online SPEAKS Program: Full-time, online, 66 units, starts in Fall & Spring, 2 years.

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)

All students will leave the program knowing how to:

1. Apply foundational knowledge of speech-language, hearing, and swallowing disorders in a professional setting.
2. Identify types of least-biased assessment, differential diagnosis, and culturally responsive interventions in working with persons from diverse backgrounds.
3. Provide collaborative, inter-professional person-centered and family-centered services.
4. Integrate evidence-based practice to inform clinical decisions and service delivery.
5. Model professionalism, ethical actions, and advocacy for persons with speech, language, hearing, cognitive, and swallowing disorders.
6. Make use of spoken and written communication skills appropriate for clinical practice in speech-language pathology.

College and Department

The MS in Speech-Language Pathology is part of the College of Education, Department of Communicative Disorders and Sciences.