College of Rehabilitative Sciences Graduate Programs
Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) Program
In our hybrid online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) program, you’ll become an exceptional practitioner. You can complete online coursework without needing to relocate for classes and learn essential clinical skills in our on-campus residencies. By attending in-person sessions for a few days each trimester, you will receive invaluable feedback and practical experience that prepares you to succeed in the field and stand out to future employers. The hybrid program balances flexibility with essential clinical rigor, ensuring students leave the program confident, competent, and ready to thrive as speech-language pathologists
Format: Online coursework + on-campus 1x per term for 3-day lab residencies (terms 1-4)
Start Dates: Sept., Jan., May (varies by campus)
Duration: 1 year, 8 months**
*Coursework includes weekly synchronous sessions **Time to completion may vary by student, depending on individual progress, credits transferred and other factors.
Facts and Figures
1 on 1
faculty support
3
start dates per year
4
on-campus hands-on residencies
400
clinical contact hours25 observation hours required prior to admission; 375 direct clinical contact hours earned in the program.
Why USAHS for Your SLP Degree
On-campus Residencies.
As an SLP student at USAHS, you’ll gain valuable hands-on experience and training at on-campus residencies once per trimester. While earning your Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology, you'll practice skills and collaborate interprofessionally in a supportive learning environment. Play Video
Blended Learning
Our hybrid online and in-person SLP program allows you to complete your studies in your community, while still gaining essential hands-on practice, while building connections with peers and faculty. Play Video
Clinical Placement Support
Utilizing our network of clinical partners, staff in our master’s program for speech pathology will guide and support you in securing a practicum placement close to your community, for valuable skill-building and professional practice competencies. Play Video
Faculty Mentorship
Your success towards earning a Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology is important to us. At USAHS, academic excellence and career preparation are the cornerstones of our speech-language pathologist graduate program, and as an SLP student you'll benefit from faculty mentors who will help you excel. Play Video
Real Patient Practice
As an SLP master's student at USAHS, you’ll engage in valuable clinical experiences at our pro bono teletherapy clinics. You’ll collaborate interprofessionally, developing the competence and confidence you need to be ready to practice upon graduating with your Master's of Science in Speech-Language Pathology. SLP Pro Bono Clinics
Innovative Learning Technologies
USAHS is at the forefront of innovative teaching and future-focused learning. Utilizing cutting-edge tools and state-of-the-art technology, you’ll develop the clinical skills and critical thinking needed to be successful during your journey toward earning your slp degree. Play Video
Unique Features of our Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology Program
The MS-SLP program is an immersive speech pathology master’s program that’s primarily online. Complete your coursework online and then attend the Austin, Dallas or San Marcos campus for three days, four times out of five trimesters, for on-campus residency experiences focused on clinical skills training.
The hybrid online speech pathology graduate program at our three campuses is designed to span just five trimesters (1 year, 8 months)*.
GRE scores are not required for admission to our speech-language pathology graduate program.
You’ll gain hands-on experience in real and simulated clinical settings, and you’ll practice using state-of-the-art endoscopy equipment—a rare feature among speech-language pathology master’s program.
While most speech language pathology online programs offer one intake, we have intakes in Spring, Summer, and Fall.
You will engage in clinical practica, both virtually and in person, with populations of all ages as you work toward earning 400 clinical clock hours.
You’ll have a chance to participate in our speech-language pathology pro bono clinic, in which SLP students assess and provide therapy to people from the local community via telehealth.
You will earn a certificate in cultural and linguistic diversity.
If you’re lacking prerequisites, USAHS offers six affordable leveling courses that can help you get ready to enter our hybrid online speech pathology program.
The curriculum of our speech-language pathology masters programs include 55-58 required credits that you will take over five trimesters, or 1 year and 8 months. This full-time speech-language pathology degree program includes virtual hybrid coursework, on-campus residency experiences (trimesters 1, 2, 3, and 4), virtual clinical experiences, and external clinical practica. You will earn 15 of your required credit hours in our hybrid online speech pathology program in clinical practica placements.
Required Core Courses
Credit Hours
Trimester 1
SLP 5110 Early Language Disorders
3
SLP 5115 Speech Sound Disorders
3
SLP 5125 Clinical Neuroscience for Speech-Language Pathology
SLP 5565 Integrated Knowledge and Skills in Speech-Language Pathology
3
SLP 5460 Professional Issues in Speech-Language Pathology*
3
SLP 5515 - Clinical Practicum V: Culturally Responsive Practice in SLP & Bilingual Assessment/Treatment
3
HSC Course, IPE Elective or Remediation
3
Total Program Hours
55-58
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MS-SLP Clinical Practica
USAHS has a diverse range of clinics, hospitals and schools* (depending on your state of residence) where you may be assigned to complete clinical practica for your master’s in speech therapy. The clinical practicum courses in our hybrid speech and language pathology online program will help you to develop essential professional skills and determine what setting best fits your career goals. Clinical placements are determined by USAHS based on the student’s academic needs and to provide the best educational experience. Students should plan on the need to travel and/or relocate for clinical experiences as part of our speech-language pathology master’s programs. Please visit the “MS-SLP Accreditation” page for more information on states from which we are currently accepting applications for enrollment .
*Note: Some states require an additional certification or license in order to work in a school setting. Students should be advised that the program is designed and intended to prepare graduates for SLP licensure in many states. However, graduates may need to complete additional requirements to be eligible for a license or certificate to work in a school setting or to have the ability to complete practicum in a school setting in his/her particular state of residence or school district, depending on the state and/or school district’s unique requirements. Students should contact the state board of education or his or her school district directly to determine if the program meets the requirements for state SLP certification or licensure in a school setting.
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MS-SLP Leveling Courses
USAHS has designed several leveling courses to serve as a pathway to the master’s program for speech language with a degree in something other than Communication Sciences and Disorders/Speech-Language Pathology or for an equivalent degree whose program did not include one or more leveling courses. The leveling courses also provide applicants with the necessary prerequisites to enter the hybrid online Master of Speech-Language Pathology program at USAHS.
Courses are available in the Spring term (January), Summer term (May) & Fall term (September), 15 weeks in length, asynchronous & synchronous learning.
Each leveling course costs $561. Note, these courses are not eligible for federal financial aid. Payment is required at the time of registration which begins approximately 30 days before the term start. A copy of your transcript demonstrating an awarded bachelor’s degree is required for enrollment. Please be sure to upload it as part of completing your registration form below.
If you have specific questions related to these courses, email your questions to [email protected].
MS-SLP Leveling Course Application
Please complete this application form to apply for one or all of our MS-SLP Leveling Courses by clicking ‘START LEVELING COURSE APPLICATION FORM’ below.
MS-SLP Leveling Courses
SLP 5003 – Introduction to Audiology
This course presents concepts and rationale underlying the measurement of hearing and balance disorders, with special reference to hearing science, anatomy and physiology, and measurement techniques.
SLP 5005 – Aural Rehabilitation
This course involves an introduction to the field of audiologic rehabilitation and examines the treatment of hearing disorders across the lifespan. Students study hearing technology, educational considerations, and nonmedical rehabilitation options for the treatment of audiological disorders.
SLP 5008 Speech Anatomy and Physiology
This course involves the study of the anatomy and physiology of the speech and hearing mechanisms. Students will study the structure and function of the skeletal, neurological, and muscular systems for respiration, phonation, articulation and resonation, as well as mastication and deglutition and the hearing mechanism. The organization and physiology of related nervous systems and functional implications will be explored.
SLP 5014 Introduction to Communication Sciences and Disorders
This course introduces students to the professions and field of communication sciences and disorders (CSD). Basic concepts related to communication, speech, and language; typical development, anatomy, and physiology; as well as communication disorders occurring across the lifespan will be examined. Cultural differences, communication disturbances and disorders related to identification, assessment, and evidenced-based treatment will be explored.
SLP 5026 Phonetics
This course involves phonetic analysis of normal and disordered speech, including training in transcription using the international phonetic alphabet. The motoric aspects of speech sound production, including a concrete description of the distinct properties that are associated with the production of these speech sounds will be explored.
SLP 5032 Normal Speech and Language Development
This course involves theoretical concepts and research findings concerning the normal developmental processes of speech and language learning and provides an understanding of child speech and language from infancy through adolescence, focusing on normal development. Students will study language and literacy development for monolingual and bilingual children.
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MS-SLP Accreditation & State Approvals/Post-Graduate Licensure
Accreditation
The Master of Science (M.S.) education program in Speech-Language Pathology {residential Austin, TX; satellite Dallas, TX; satellite San Marcos, CA; satellite St. Augustine, FL; all distance education} at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, 2200 Research Boulevard, #310, Rockville, MD 20850, 800-498-2071 or 301-296-5700.
State Approvals
San Marcos, CA; St. Augustine, FL; Austin, TX and Dallas, TX
USAHS is currently accepting applications for enrollment in the Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) program for residents in the following states: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
USAHS is currently not accepting applications from states where the program does not meet state licensure requirements and/or where the institution does not have state authorization. However, prospective students are encouraged to check back in the near future as the program may be offered in additional states. Current and admitted students are also advised to monitor this page for any updates prior to relocating to another state, as this can have an impact on continued enrollment in the program and the ability to be placed for on-the-ground activities or practicum experiences.
Post-Graduation Licensure
For states denoted in blue, USAHS has determined the program satisfies the educational requirements for professional licensure in those states. USAHS has not made a determination regarding whether the MS-SLP program satisfies the requirements for professional licensure in the states denoted in gray. For more information, students should contact the appropriate state licensure board to ensure an understanding of state licensure requirements as regulations vary from state to state.
USAHS has not made a determination that its curriculum meets the educational requirements for licensure or certification in the following locations: American Samoa, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau. The map below identifies the states from which the University is now accepting applications for the SLP master’s program.
Note on Licensure, Authorization, Endorsement, or Other State Credential Necessary to Practice as a Speech-Language Pathologist
Each state board that is responsible for regulating the practice of speech-language pathologists has its own academic requirements and issues its own license to practice in that state. Most state licensing boards require that Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) program graduates graduate from a CAA accredited or Accreditation Candidate status Speech-Language Pathology program and pass the Praxis Speech-Language Pathology exam to apply for an intern/provisional license while working on their Clinical Fellowship (CF) for national certification (Certificate of Clinical Competence, CCC) requirements. Licensure requirements may vary in school or other settings. The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA).
It remains the student’s responsibility to understand, evaluate, and comply with all requirements relating to field education experiences, licensing or certification, authorization or endorsement for the state in which she or he resides.
Current and admitted students are also advised to monitor this page for any updates prior to relocating to another state, as this can have an impact on continued enrollment in the program and the ability to be placed for on-the-ground activities or practicum experiences. Additionally, current and prospective students are advised if they choose to relocate to carefully review, evaluate and understand the requirements of the applicable licensure board in the state in which they intend to relocate.
Speech-Language Pathology in a School Setting
Some states require an additional certification or license in order to work in a school setting. Students should be advised that the USAHS’ MS-SLP program is designed and intended to prepare graduates for SLP licensure in many states. However, graduates may need to complete additional requirements to be eligible for a license or certificate to work in a school setting or to have the ability to complete practicum in a school setting in their particular state of residence or school district, depending on the state and/or school district’s unique requirements. Students should contact the state board of education or his or her school district directly to determine if the USAHS’ MS-SLP program meets the requirements for state SLP certification or licensure in a school setting.
Note on ASHA Certification
Speech-Language Pathology program graduates must hold a degree from a Speech-Language Pathology program that is accredited or in Accreditation Candidate status by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA), and complete the Clinical Fellow (CF) experience, in order to be eligible to apply for the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology by the American Speech and Hearing Association’s (ASHA) Council for Clinical Certification. This credential is required in order to practice as a nationally certified speech-language pathologist in many settings in many states. The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences MS-SLP program is accredited by the CAA.
Note on Praxis Speech-Language Pathology Exam
All states require that SLP graduates pass the Praxis Speech-Language Pathology exam in order to be eligible to practice as a licensed speech-language pathologist.
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MS-SLP Executive Summary of Strategic Plan 2022-2027
Mission: The mission of the Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology at USAHS is to graduate clinicians who can identify and manage a full range of communication conditions across the life span. Through the development of critical thinking, cultural competency, ethical standards, and compassionate patient care principles, the graduates will be poised to promote the quality of life for the clients whom they serve. They will be prepared to guide, lead, and influence their profession.
Program learning outcomes for the speech-language pathology online program include:
Differentiate and diagnose communication disorders utilizing evidenced-based practice.
Outline and implement evidence-based treatment plans appropriate to the disorder and in patient-specific contexts.
Describe and educate/ collaborate/ counsel with clients and caregivers on prevention, assessment, and intervention across disorders.
Distinguish and demonstrate professional practice competencies including accountability, integrity, effective communication skills, clinical reasoning, evidence-based practice, care for individuals served, cultural competence, professional duty, and collaborative practice.
Differentiate and demonstrate cultural and linguistic competence while communicating effectively recognizing the background, needs, values, preferred mode of communication of the client and family.
Demonstrate knowledge of and participate appropriately with other healthcare professionals in interprofessional teams.
Strategic Goals:
Map, integrate, implement, and assess IPE across the SLP graduate program curriculum
Integrate cultural and linguistic variables across the curriculum to reflect the populations served
Diversify, improve, and increase course delivery methods for optimal student learning and engagement
Enhance ways to increase cultural responsiveness training (e.g., study abroad options)
Enrich clinical education training through extending specialized training opportunities
Create new program delivery options to expand access to graduate education
Promote scholarship and student engagement in research
Strategic Indicators of Success:
Exit surveys
Survey data from students, alumni, employers, and clinical educators
Student outcome data
Analysis of the strategic plan by faculty
Curriculum review
Academic and Clinical Faculty Summits
Feasibility studies
Focus groups
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MS-SLP Student & Learning Outcomes
MS-SLP Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) program, graduates will be able to:
Differentiate and diagnose communication disorders utilizing evidenced-based practice.
Outline and implement evidence-based treatment plans appropriate to the disorder and in patient-specific contexts.
Describe and educate/collaborate/counsel with clients and caregivers on prevention, assessment, and intervention across disorders.
Distinguish and demonstrate professional practice competencies, including accountability, integrity, effective communication skills, clinical reasoning, evidence-based practice, care for individuals served, cultural competence, professional duty, and collaborative practice.
Differentiate and demonstrate cultural and linguistic competence while communicating effectively recognizing the background, needs, values, preferred mode of communication of the client and family.
Demonstrate knowledge of and participate appropriately with other healthcare professionals in interprofessional teams.
MS-SLP Student Outcome Data
The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) requires that student outcome data be made available for the three most recently completed academic years. Data available to date since program initiation are provided below. This page will be updated as required as data for the most recently completed academic year becomes available.
On-Time Program Completion Rates
Austin, TX
Year
# Completed Within Expected Time Frame
% Completed Within Expected Time Frame
Recent Year - 2024
95
96%
1-Year Prior - 2023
53
91%
2-Years Prior - 2022
58
93%
Dallas, TX
Year
# Completed Within Expected Time Frame
% Completed Within Expected Time Frame
Recent Year - 2024
90
94%
1-Year Prior - 2023
53
87%
2-Years Prior - 2022
51
91%
Praxis Pass Rates
Austin, TX
Year
# Taking the Exam
# Passed Exam
% Passed Exam Rate
Recent Year - 2024
78
66
85%
1-Year Prior - 2023
69
62
90%
2-Years Prior - 2022
61
53
87%
Dallas, TX
Year
# Taking the Exam
# Passed Exam
% Passed Exam Rate
Recent Year - 2024
73
61
85%
1-Year Prior - 2023
64
59
92%
2-Years Prior - 2022
56
47
84%
Note: The Praxis examination reporting period is the testing year or examination cycle, not the year of graduation for the test-takers. The data for each reporting period may include test-takers who graduated from the program within the prior 3 years.
Employment Rates of Graduates*
Austin, TX
Year
# of Graduates Who Reported Employment
% of Graduates Employed
Recent Year - 2022
53
100%
1-Year Prior - 2021
44
98%
2-Years Prior - 2020
36
100%
Dallas, TX
Year
# of Graduates Who Reported Employment
% of Graduates Employed
Recent Year - 2022
49
100%
1-Year Prior - 2021
34
100%
2-Years Prior - 2020
N/A
N/A
*Note: Self-reported surveys of employment are the percentage of those employed who responded to the survey. The employment rate reporting period is not the year of graduation. The data for each reporting period should represent the individuals who graduated from the program one year prior.
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MS-SLP Program Data
Click the hybrid online speech pathology program below to view the program data:
Q: What if I completed my prerequisites more than 5 years ago?
A: We recommend that prerequisites for the masters of science in speech-language pathology be completed no more than 5 years prior to enrollment—but contact an enrollment advisor to discuss your situation.
Q: What if my GPA for my prerequisite courses is under 3.0?
A: Contact an enrollment advisor to discuss the admission requirements. Our Enrollment team will advise you about courses you can complete—or possibly retake—to increase your prerequisite GPA.
Q: Is the GRE required for your hybrid speech language pathology online to the program?
A: No. The GRE is not required for admission to our MS-SLP program.
Q: Do all applicants receive an admission interview?
A: Applicants who meet our admission requirements receive an interview as part of the admissions process into our speech-language pathology online program.
CSDCAS Application
Q: If I’m missing observation hours, how do I complete them for the application?
A: You can complete your observation hours by taking a leveling course with USAHS. Reach out to an enrollment advisor to discuss options.
Q: Do I need to send transcripts to the University and CSDCAS?
A: No — please submit your transcripts directly to CSDCAS with your application.
Q: What should I write about in my personal essay?
A: When you fill out the CSDCAS application, you will receive the essay prompt, “Why do you think you can make a difference in speech-language pathology?” Your response should be approximately two pages, double-spaced.
Q: Can I submit the application with missing requirements?
A: Yes—you can submit your application with as many as three pending items. Reach out to an enrollment advisor to discuss the pending items and develop a plan to complete them.
Q: Can I apply for admission to all of the campuses – San Marcos, St. Augustine, Austin and Dallas?
A: No—you can apply to only one campus. Please speak with an enrollment advisor for help in designating your campus preference.
About the MS-SLP Program
Q: What tools are available to help me succeed in an online speech pathology program?
A: The Student Readiness Orientation includes information about how to use Blackboard, how to create videos for assignments, study skills tips, library tips, and more. Beyond the orientation, USAHS offers several resources to help our students succeed in our hybrid speech and language pathology online programs, including a writing center, an extensive virtual library, and tutoring services. During the admissions and enrollment process, you can seek guidance from your enrollment advisor; once you begin classes, please reach out to your student success advisor or faculty advisor.
Q: What are the differences between the San Marcos, St. Augustine, Austin and Dallas campuses?
A: All of our campuses offer a unique and vibrant experience. But take our virtual tours of the San Marcos, St. Augustine, Austin and Dallas campuses to see the difference for yourself!
Q: How many students are admitted per cohort?
A: Cohort sizes range between 30 to 55 students. You will enter with a cohort and progress through the master’s program for speech pathology together, collaborating and bonding.
Q: How competitive is it to get into USAHS’ master’s program for speech pathology?
A: The hybrid online speech pathology program is competitive, as is the field of SLP in general. You can meet with an enrollment advisor to discuss any specific questions.
Q: Is it easier to gain admissions for the Fall, Summer or Spring term?
A: The SLP field is competitive by nature, regardless of the term start date.
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Mission Statement
The mission of the Masters in Speech-Language Pathology program at USAHS is to graduate clinicians who can identify and manage a full range of communication conditions across the life span. Through the development of critical thinking, cultural competency, ethical standards, and compassionate patient care principles, the graduates will be poised to promote the quality of life for the clients whom they serve. They will be prepared to guide, lead, and influence their profession.
Note: Some states require an additional certification or license in order to work in a school setting. Students should be advised that the USAHS MS-SLP program is designed and intended to prepare graduates for SLP licensure in many states. However, graduates may need to complete additional requirements to be eligible for a license or certificate to work in a school setting or to have the ability to complete practicum in a school setting in his/her particular state of residence or school district, depending on the state and/or school district’s unique requirements. Students should contact the state board of education or his or her school district directly to determine if the USAHS MS-SLP program meets the requirements for state SLP certification or licensure in a school setting.
Accreditation
The Master of Science (M.S.) education program in Speech-Language Pathology {residential Austin, TX; satellite Dallas, TX; satellite San Marcos, CA; satellite St. Augustine, FL; all distance education} at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, 2200 Research Boulevard, #310, Rockville, MD 20850, 800-498-2071 or 301-296-5700.
MS-SLP Campuses
Texas Campuses
The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences offers vibrant campuses in both Austin and Dallas. Each serves as a hub for innovative speech pathology programs in Texas online and in person.
USAHS in Austin aligns with the city’s eclectic charm that’s surrounded by natural beauty and a creative community. Meanwhile, in Dallas, the Las Colinas campus offers convenience among online SLP programs in Texas due to its proximity to a bustling health and biotech scene.
Both locations support earning a master’s degree in speech-language pathology in Texas.
Looking for speech pathology programs online in California? Then consider hybrid study at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in San Marcos.
While studying SLP programs online in California, experience everything from beaches to mountains and vibrant city centers, like nearby San Diego and Los Angeles. San Marcos is one of the fastest-growing cities in San Diego County which makes it an excellent place to start a healthcare career.
Our hybrid online speech pathology programs in California help students excel at one of the premiere health science campuses in the state.
The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences offers an exceptional speech pathology program in Florida at our historic flagship campus in St. Augustine.
Our online speech pathology program in Florida features state-of-the-art facilities, including a 10-bed hospital simulation center, driving simulators, and 3D printers. These resources enhance the learning experience for students in our speech pathology graduate program in Florida.
With its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture, St. Augustine provides a unique and charming setting for your SLP education.
