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2025-2026 Academic Bulletin (Review Copy) [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
Speech-Language Pathology MS
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Andrews University's Speech-Language Pathology MS is designed to provide the student with in-depth academic study, the potential for research and extensive clinical experiences in preparation for careers in the diagnosis, evaluation and management of individuals with speech and language disorders. The Master's degree program is accreditated by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association's (ASHA) Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology.
Admission Options:
In addition to the standard Speech-Language Pathology MS (see admission requirements below), Andrews University offers two other tracks based on prior educational background: 1) Transitional Program and 2) Accelerated Program.
- Transitional Program (3 Year Track): Students interested in earning the Bachelors/Masters in a transitional program will need to follow the admission requirements as stated below in the section entitled, “Admission Requirements for the 3 Year Track.” This program is designed for students who wish to obtain a master's degree in speech-language pathology, but hold a bachelor's degree in another major area.
- Accelerated Program (5 Year Track): Students interested in earning the Bachelors/Masters in an accelerated program will need to follow the admission requirements as stated below in the section entitled, “Admission Requirements for the 5 Year Accelerated BS/MS Program.” This track allows eligible students to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and a Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology in 5 years compared to 6. Students must begin this track fall semester of the undergraduate freshmen year at Andrews University.
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Program Options
Each graduate student may choose the Standard Option or Research Option to complete their degree. Additional Requirements
- All students admitted to the Master’s program must maintain a 3.0 grade point average.
- Student will be permitted to earn one “C” while in the program. If a second “C” is earned or the student’s grade point average falls below a 3.0, the student will be placed on a remediation plan. Student may also be required to retake the course.
- Complete and pass Comprehensive examination (SPPA 670).
- Eligible MS-SLP students must take the Praxis Examination before graduation.
Clinical Requirements
- The applicant for certification in speech-language pathology must complete a minimum of 400 clock hours of supervised clinical experience in the practice of speech-language pathology. Twenty-five (25) hours must be spent in clinical observation, and 375 hours must be spent in direct client/patient contact. The clinical observation must be completed prior to beginning any practicum experiences.
- At least 325 of the 400 clock hours must be completed while the applicant is engaged in graduate study in a program accredited in speech-language pathology by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology. Clinical clock hours will be tracked by the student, advisor, and administrative assistant to insure that the student has had a diverse clinical experience and for accuracy. This program prepares the student for certification.
- Placement sites for Practicum may require vaccine records, drug screening, and fingerprinting separate from the program requirements, the cost of this is the student’s responsibility.
Maintaining Academic Standing
- Student will be permitted to earn one “C” while in the program. If a second “C” is earned or the student’s grade point average falls below a 3.0, the student will be placed on a remediation plan. Student may also be required to retake the course.
- Students must meet all essential functions of the School of Communication Sciences and Disorders.
- Students are required to meet with their advisor at least once per semester to discuss course plan and program progress.
- Students will meet all academic and clinical requirements for certification with the American Speech and Hearing Association.
- Students who elect to do a research project must be in good academic and clinical standing prior to securing approval.
Graduation Requirements
- Complete prerequisite course requirements in: statistics, biological science, physics/chemistry and behavioral science.
- Successfully complete all academic and clinical courses that meet all 2020 American Speech and Hearing knowledge standards and outcomes for the Certificate of Clinical Competence
- Complete 400 clock hours of clinical practice with at least 325 hours at the graduate level and 50 clock hours in each of the three types of clinical settings.
- Submit graduation application at the beginning of the second to last semester of study.
- Complete and pass Comprehensive examination.
- Eligible MS-SLP students must take the Praxis II/ASHA exam scores to graduate.
- If the research option is chosen, student must present and receive final approval at least 15 days prior to graduation.
Admission Requirements
Application Requirements: - All applicants must apply through https://csdcas.liaisoncas.com
- Submit completed application
- Submit 3 letters of recommendation
- Submit official undergraduate transcripts
Admission Requirement:
- Must have GPA of 2.75 or higher
3-Year Track
Prerequisite Courses Upon admission, students will complete one year of undergraduate prerequisite coursework in speech-language pathology. Students must maintain a 3.5 GPA during the prerequisite course completion (with no grade below a B). Prerequisites must be completed within one academic year. After successful completion, students will enter the Master’s degree program. The minimum GPA requirement for the MS program is 2.75. Students may be required to complete additional courses to meet the standards for certification by the American Speech and Hearing Association. Students must complete courses in human biology, statistics, physics or chemistry, and behavioral science for regular admission to the MS program. The following courses must be completed during the prerequisite year. 5-Year Track
Students eligible to begin the 5-year BS/MS accelerated program must meet the following criteria: - Students will take SPPA 280, SPPA 234, and SPPA 285 during their first semester as freshmen.
- Freshmen students interested in the 5-year BS/MS accelerated program will be invited during the spring semester of their freshmen year.
- Students in this program must maintain a 3.3 GPA overall and a 3.5 in core courses, those with SPPA acronym, during the first three undergraduate years.
- During the senior year, students will complete the initial courses toward the MS degree.
- At the end of the 4th year (senior year), students will graduate with a BS in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology.
Student Handbook
Please visit the School of Communication Sciences and Disorders website for the most up-to-date version of the department’s Graduate Student Handbook. Accreditation
The Master of Science education program in speech-language pathology at Andrews University is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, 2200 Research Boulevard, #310, Rockville, MD 20850, 800-498-2071.
Scholarships
Tuition scholarships are offered based on undergraduate GPA performance. See the website for detailed information. Student Learning Outcomes
Graduates of this program will: - Demonstrate knowledge and application of theoretical and conceptual knowledge of speech, language, and hearing as the components of communication across the lifespan.
- Differentiate between various speech, language, and hearing differences and disorders.
- Demonstrate the ability to present information clearly, logically, and critically both orally and in writing.
- Demonstrate knowledge of ethical standards as they relate to their field of study and interprofessional practice.
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