Program Overview

Introduction to the Ph.D. in Communication Sciences and Disorders

The Ph.D. in Communication Sciences and Disorders at Howard University's Graduate School is designed for advanced study in communication sciences and disorders, intersecting disciplines, and the development of research and teaching strategies. This program attracts exceptional students from diverse backgrounds and prepares them for fulfilling careers in research, teaching, or clinical practice in communication sciences and affiliated fields.

Program Overview

Our students seek to understand the etiology, symptomatology, prevention, and remediation of speech, language, and hearing disorders. They significantly contribute to the communication sciences and disorders field, applying clinical and research evidence to real-world cases. The program welcomes applicants with a master's degree in speech-language pathology or speech, language, and hearing sciences. Students may choose from two research specialization areas: the adult neurological track or the child language track. In addition, students may elect to complete the more traditional dissertation or to develop a research project.

Program Details

• Degree Classification: Graduate
• Related Degrees: Ph.D.
• Credit Hours: 72 credit hours
• Format: Full-time, On-campus format
• Degree: Ph.D.

Application Deadlines

• Spring 2026 entry: No spring entry
• Fall 2026 entry:
  • Early deadline: November 15 (for consideration of Graduate School's Competitive Assistantships)
  • Priority deadline: February 15
  • Final deadline: April 1

Admission Requirements

Application for Admission

• Online application
• Statement of purpose/Statement of academic interest (500-1,000 words)
• Official transcripts
• 3 letters of recommendation
• Master's degree in speech-language pathology or speech, language, and hearing sciences from an accredited college or university or the international equivalent
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae
• Autobiographical statement (500-750 words)

GRE Requirements

• GRE scores are not required
• No preferred minimums for GRE scores

GPA Requirements

• Overall GPA minimum: 3.2
• Undergrad GPA minimum: 3.0

Reference Requirements

• Evaluator type accepted:
  • Professor (Required)
  • Supervisor/Manager
• Evaluator type not accepted:
  • Coworker
  • Friend
  • Family Member
  • Clergy
  • Other

Program Structure and Research Areas

The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of communication sciences and disorders, as well as the skills necessary to conduct research and teach in the field. Students will have the opportunity to conduct case-based research, working alongside clinicians at Howard's Speech and Hearing Clinic or partner schools, hospitals, early intervention and community clinics, and private practice settings throughout the DC Metropolitan Area. Faculty conduct research on measures associated with treatments in childhood aphasia and apraxia of speech, eye tracking methodology to examine cognitive and linguistic processing issues, early intervention in aural rehabilitation, language processing and development in second language learning and monolingual contexts, and novel treatment approaches for neurogenic and swallowing disorders, among other areas of research.

Additional Requirements

Applicants must submit a nonrefundable application fee of $75, a statement of research interest, an autobiographical sketch, and official university transcripts from all institutions from which the applicant has received academic credit. Three letters of recommendation are required, at least two of which should be from persons familiar with the applicant's academic performance and potential.