KY

Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (SLP)
Online

Western Kentucky University | Master of Science in Communication Disorders

  • Bowling Green


About This Program

Western Kentucky University’s online Master of Science in Communication Disorders prepares speech-language pathologists for hospital, clinic, nursing facility, and school settings. Full-time students complete the program in eight semesters while part-time students extend to nine semesters. The program features evening synchronous classes and requires a mandatory 6-week summer SLP 590 Clinical Internship (bootcamp) at WKU’s main campus. International students have opportunities to complete practicums on campus. The program is fully accredited by the CAA.

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What You'll Learn
  • Assess and diagnose speech, language, and swallowing disorders across the lifespan.
  • Develop and implement evidence-based intervention plans for communication impairments.
  • Conduct clinical observations and supervised practicum in educational and medical settings.
  • Apply ethical standards and interprofessional practices in speech-language pathology.
For detailed, official program information including specific curriculum, faculty, research opportunities, and application requirements:
Visit Official Program Website
Typical Curriculum Structure
The Master of Science in Communication Disorders is a two-year graduate program preparing students for certification as speech-language pathologists through coursework in speech, language, and swallowing disorders, plus extensive clinical practicum hours.
Typical Course Topics
1. Speech Science 2. Language Disorders in Children 3. Voice Disorders 4. Aphasia and Neurological Conditions 5. Dysphagia and Swallowing Disorders 6. Motor Speech Disorders
Program Specializations:
School-Based SLP
Dysphagia Management
View the exact, up-to-date curriculum on the official program website
Typical Admissions Requirements
A bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, often in a related field or with completion of prerequisites such as phonetics, language development, anatomy and physiology of speech mechanisms, audiology, and basic sciences (biology, physics/chemistry, statistics, social/behavioral sciences).
Academic Requirements (Typical)

• Degree Required: Bachelor’s degree
• GRE/GMAT: Optional or Not Required
• TOEFL/IELTS: Required for international students (TOEFL 80+ / IELTS 6.5+)

Application Materials (Typical)

• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Letters of Recommendation: 2–3
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Application Timeline

Most programs have rolling admissions or deadlines in early winter for fall admission. Check the official program website for exact dates.

Check Application Deadlines
Career Opportunities in AI

Graduates are eligible for ASHA certification and state licensure as speech-language pathologists, prepared to work in hospitals, clinics, nursing facilities, schools, and other diverse professional settings.

Estimated Industry Salary
Speech-Language Pathologist: $80,000
Total compensation (entry to mid-level)
AI Job Growth
19%
Projected 2024-2034 (BLS)
Common Career Paths:
1. Speech-Language Pathologist 2. Clinical Supervisor in SLP 3. School Speech-Language Pathologist 4. Rehabilitation SLP Specialist
Top AI Employers (Industry-Wide):
Graduates work in hospitals, school districts, rehabilitation centers, and private practices.
Explore AI Career Paths
Program Details
Duration
  • 4 Year
Tuition
$ 42,420
Format
Online
Specializations
School-Based SLP
Dysphagia Management
Official Resources
Program Website
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