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The Speech-Language Pathology Program provides academic and clinical experiences that culminate in the Master of Science (M.S.) in Speech-Language Pathology degree. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for a professional role as a speech-language pathologist (SLP). Graduates of this program will be poised to assume positions as entry-level clinicians as part of a healthcare or educational team. The Speech-Language Pathology degree program is a continuous, full-time program of study that spans seven quarters, or 21 months from admission to graduation (Traditional Track). The maximum allotted time for completion of the program is 31.5 months.
The current degree program offers an additional full-time program of study option that spans eight quarters, or 24 months from admission to graduation (Leveling Track). The maximum allotted time for completion of the program is 36 months. The current degree program also offers an additional Part-Time program of study option that spans 12 quarters, or 36 months from admission to graduation (Part-Time Track). The maximum allotted time for completion of the program is 48 months.
The Speech-Language Pathology Program offers a balanced curriculum to prepare future SLPs to work with both children and adults with communication disorders. Course elements are designed to imbue students with the knowledge base pertinent to the field, while simultaneously fostering the critical thinking, problem solving, and self-confidence that contributes to effective independent clinical practice. Further, students will develop empathy and compassion, which are hallmark traits of a master clinician.
The Speech-Language Pathology Program curriculum incorporates academic, research, and clinical experiences. The curriculum includes basic science and research coursework, in addition to courses that focus on specific communication disorders. Each student will explore the evidence base of speech-language pathology and related professions, and will apply knowledge gained to clinical practices. All students will learn about basic research methods within the discipline, and can elect to complete research that culminates in a master's thesis. Students will engage in clinical practica at the Midwestern University Clinic and at local schools and healthcare facilities. Each student will complete two advanced practica of at least 10 weeks duration (Traditional Track) or three advanced practica of at least 8 weeks duration (Part-Time Track). These involve full-time work in an educational facility, hospital or clinic. Students will gain clinical experiences with a wide variety of clients with communication impairment.
The Speech-Language Pathology Program is designed to prepare entry-level speech-language pathologists. Graduates will be able to demonstrate evidence of all knowledge and skill requirements to begin a Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY). At the completion of the CFY, graduates will be eligible to apply for the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Students will also be eligible to apply for state licensure through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR), and a professional educator's license through the Illinois State Board of Education.
Program Objectives
The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology Program seeks to:
- Foster a humanistic learning environment for students;
- Foster a holistic and compassionate approach to patient care;
- Graduate competent speech-language pathologists who possess the levels of clinical judgment, understanding, empathy, technical skills, and independence to begin professional practice;
- Instill a philosophy of lifelong learning in speech-language pathology students;
- Promote research and scholarly activity among the faculty and students;
- Develop a clinical practice in the Midwestern University Clinic that provides a broad range of evidence-based experiences for speech-language pathology students;
- Contribute to the overall growth and academic excellence of Midwestern University by supporting its Mission and Vision.