Program Overview

Program Description

The professional Doctorate in Speech-Language Pathology is a degree for Masters-level clinicians who want to increase depth of knowledge in the field of speech-language pathology while also acquiring clinical research experience. Graduates of the program will gain advanced knowledge in the field of speech-language pathology, with specialized training in evidence-based practice, critical thinking, and leadership. They will also become adept at analyzing and synthesizing the existing research literature.

Program Structure

It is projected that students will spend just over 2 years in the program, taking 2 (3-credit) classes a quarter for 8 quarters. Students have the ability to extend the program for 2 additional quarters (for a total of 10 quarters) if the required Clinical Research Capstone project is not complete by the end of the final quarter. Only full-time students are admitted into the program.

Program Domains

The SLPD programs coursework is organized into two broad domains: the research domain and the content domain.

• Research Domain: Students are supported and guided through the process of completing an independent Capstone Research Project in speech-language pathology, working closely with a dedicated faculty mentor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. This experience encompasses every stage of the research process, including developing valid and measurable research questions, preparing a proposal for faculty review, obtaining IRB approval, implementing the study, analyzing data in collaboration with a statistician, and preparing the final manuscript. Students then present their completed capstone project for faculty evaluation. Through this process, students gain hands-on experience in scholarly research and contribute new knowledge to the field, culminating in the submission of their manuscript to a peer-reviewed journal prior to graduation.
  • Content Domain: Students engage with some of the most current, complex and specialized topics in the field through doctoral-level classes. These classes are designed to deepen clinical expertise and broaden professional perspectives, with an emphasis on evidence-based knowledge that enhances advanced practice.

Program Delivery

The SLPD program at Loma Linda University is designed to support working professionals who wish to advance their careers without the extensive time commitment of a PhD. The program offers online coursework, often with accompanying live evening classes held via video conference, allowing students to participate from a location that is convenient for them. This format fosters meaningful interaction and engagement between instructors and students. The only required on-campus component is a one-day, in-person orientation at the start of the program. While attendance at graduation weekend is not required, students are encouraged to join the celebration on campus.

Program Length

The program length is 8-10 quarters, which is equivalent to 2.3 to 2.9 years.

Possible Careers

Possible career paths for graduates include:

• Public and private schools
• Hospitals
• Rehabilitation centers
• Short-term and long-term nursing care facilities
• Community clinics
• Colleges and universities
• Private practice offices
• State and local health departments
• State and federal government agencies
• Home health agencies (home care)
• Adult day care centers
• Centers for persons with developmental disabilities
• Research laboratories

Application Deadlines

The application deadlines are as follows:

• Quarter: Autumn of 2026
• Application Open: Oct 1, 2025
• Priority Deadline: Not specified
• Final Deadline: Jun 15, 2026

Admissions Requirements

The admissions requirements include:

• Masters degree in speech-language pathology from an accredited institution
• Minimum GPA of 3.3
• Current clinical certification (CCCs) and state licensure to practice speech-language pathology
• Completed online application
• Nonrefundable application fee
• Official transcripts for all undergraduate and graduate coursework
• Resume
• Three letters of reference
• Written statement: 2-3 page essay describing research interests (and experience, if any), professional experience/accomplishments, why you want to pursue a Doctorate in Speech-Language Pathology, and why you want to attend Loma Linda University
• Virtual interview (to be scheduled with applicants who pass the first round of screening)

Expected Cost of Attendance

The estimated cost of attendance is based on full-time attendance for the number of months enrolled per academic year. The costs are as follows:

Required Program Costs

• Year 1: $16,182 (tuition and fees) + $950 (books, materials, supplies, and equipment allowance) = $17,132
• Year 2: $21,576 (tuition and fees)
• Year 3: $5,394 (tuition and fees)

Other Educational Costs

These costs can be funded with scholarships or loans and include:

• Living Expense (Food & Housing Allowance)
  • On Campus Dorm: $12,447 (Year 1), $16,596 (Year 2), $4,149 (Year 3)
  • LLU Owned Rental Property: $21,942 (Year 1), $29,256 (Year 2), $7,314 (Year 3)
  • LLU Owned Rental w/ Dependents: $22,437 (Year 1), $29,916 (Year 2), $7,479 (Year 3)
  • Undergraduate Dependent w/ Parents: $7,650 (Year 1), $10,200 (Year 2), $2,550 (Year 3)
  • Off Campus: $21,942 (Year 1), $29,256 (Year 2), $7,314 (Year 3)
• Transportation Allowance: $3,150 (Year 1), $4,200 (Year 2), $1,050 (Year 3)
• Miscellaneous Personal Expenses: $3,285 (Year 1), $4,380 (Year 2), $1,095 (Year 3)
• Federal Student Loan Fees: $1,273 (Year 1), $1,861 (Year 2), $157 (Year 3)
• Cost of Obtaining Professional License: $0
• Dependent Care and Disability-Related Expenses are available upon request.

Notes

The cost of attendance varies from year to year. The estimated amounts are for the academic year specified only and are based on full-time attendance for the number of months enrolled per academic year. International students need to calculate 12 months of living expenses based on these amounts. The amounts are expected to increase each year consistent with inflation in the professional education sector. To qualify for financial aid, most students must be enrolled at least half time in an aid-eligible program and be taking degree requirements. Half time is 6 units in a quarter for undergraduate programs and 4 units in a quarter for graduate programs.