Master of Science in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences
Program Overview
The Master of Science in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences program at San Francisco State University prepares students to become speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and audiologists. The curriculum emphasizes culturally and linguistically responsive practices, research-based evidence, and ethical standards, aligning with ASHA certification standards. Graduates are eligible for licensure and certification as SLPs and audiologists, equipping them for careers in the field.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Science in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences program at San Francisco State University prepares students for careers as speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and audiologists. The program emphasizes culturally and linguistically responsive practices, research-based evidence, and ethical standards.
Objectives:
The program's learning objectives are aligned with ASHA (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association) certification standards. These objectives include:
- Analyzing communication and swallowing processes and disorders across the lifespan.
- Planning and conducting appropriate evaluations and screenings for diagnosis and intervention recommendations.
- Planning and implementing effective interventions with measurable goals, and evaluating client progress.
- Demonstrating effective written and oral communication skills for professional interactions.
- Demonstrating knowledge of research methodologies and integrating research into clinical practice.
- Providing culturally sensitive care and collaborating with other caregivers.
- Understanding contemporary professional issues, including regulations, certifications, licensure, and ethical principles.
Outline:
The program is comprised of 61 units minimum and includes three main components:
Academic Courses (38 units):
- SLHS 701: Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Practices in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences (3 units)
- SLHS 702: Social Communication Development (3 units)
- SLHS 703: Research Methods, Evidence-Based Practices, and Professional Issues (3 units)
- SLHS 707: Serving School Communities in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences (3 units)
- SLHS 708: Neurogenic Disorders of Language (3 units)
- SLHS 709: Speech Sound Production (3 units)
- SLHS 710: Seminar in Dysphagia (3 units)
- SLHS 714: Interprofessional Education & Family-Centered Practice (2 units, taken twice)
- Choose one of the following (13 units):
- SPED 743: Issues in Augmentative and Alternative Communication
- SLHS 754: Voice and Resonance (3 units)
- SLHS 755: Fluency Disorders (3 units)
- SLHS 756: Right Hemisphere Syndrome, TBI, Dementia in Communicative Disabilities (3 units)
- SLHS 757: Aural Rehabilitation (3 units)
Clinical Practicum (6 units):
- SLHS 713: Seminar in Therapy (1 unit, taken twice)
- SLHS 880: Advanced Communication Therapy (2 units, taken twice)
Internships (14 units):
- SLHS 712: Internship Workshop Seminar: Communicative Disabilities (1 unit, taken twice)
- SLHS 882: Advanced Internship (6 units, taken twice)
Culminating Experience (3-6 units):
- Select one of the following options:
- Plan A (3 units):
- SLHS 706: Counseling in Communicative Disorders
- SLHS 896: EXMCulminating Experience Examination
- Plan B (6 units):
- SLHS 706: Counseling in Communicative Disorders
- SLHS 898: Master's Thesis in Communicative Disorders
- Plan C (6 units):
- SLHS 706: Counseling in Communicative Disorders
Careers:
Graduates of the Master of Science in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences program are eligible for licensure and certification as speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and audiologists.
Other:
- Advisors: Clarke, Epstein, Gray, Raggio, Soto, Sundarrajan, Yu
- Department and Program Websites: slhs.sfsu.edu
- Admissions:
- Admission requirements include:
- Completion of a bachelor's degree or equivalent coursework in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences.
- Coursework in biological sciences, physical sciences, statistics, and social sciences.
- Satisfactory completion of ASHA Standard IV-A prerequisites.
- Evidence of completion of CBEST (California Basic Educational Skills Test) or equivalent.