Program Overview

Introduction to the Speech-Language Pathology Program

The Speech-Language Pathology (M.S.) - Residential program at James Madison University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the field of communication sciences and disorders. The program adopts a holistic review process that fosters inclusive excellence and values the experiences and attributes that students from diverse backgrounds bring to the university.

Admission to the MS SLP Program (Residential)

To be eligible for admission to the program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Have a minimum 3.25 GPA in the major or overall
• Complete a two-step application process, which includes:
  • Step 1: Submission of the Communication Sciences and Disorders Centralized Application System (CSDCAS) application
  • Step 2: Submission of the JMU Graduate School Application
• Applications are accepted from September 15th to January 15th
• Incomplete applications are not eligible for review
• Decisions will be announced in mid-March, with courses beginning in August

Required Application Materials

The following materials must be submitted through CSDCAS:

• Clinical Essay: Respond to a clinical scenario using evidence-based practice
• Video Personal Statement: Share compassion, collaboration, adaptability, and resilience
• Achievements & Experiences: Describe accomplishments and experiences
• Professional Letters of Recommendation: Obtain two letters from faculty, colleagues, and/or employers
• Official Transcripts: Provide official transcripts from all previous institutions
• Verification of Pre-Requisite Coursework: Verify completion of required coursework

Pre-Requisite Coursework

Students must have completed the following coursework prior to starting the master's program:

• One biological science
• One physical science (chemistry or physics)
• One statistics course
• One social science
• The following CSD courses or their equivalents:
  • CSD 207 - Phonetics
  • CSD 208 - Anatomy & Physiology of the Ear & Voice Mechanism
  • CSD 209 - Acoustics of Speech and Hearing
  • CSD 300 - Language Development
  • CSD 301 - Introduction to Audiology Students who have not completed a course in Aural Rehabilitation will be expected to complete the coursework to meet competencies.

Licensure/Certification

The program meets the educational requirements for licensure or certification in the Commonwealth of Virginia. However, requirements vary by state and are subject to change. Students should refer to the JMU Professional Licensure Program Status by Jurisdiction Index to determine if the program meets the educational requirements specified by the associated licensing or certification agency in their state or territory.