Program Overview
The masters in speech-language pathology program at the University of Kansas Medical Center prepares students for a rewarding and in-demand career as a speech-language pathologist (SLP). This comprehensive, clinically intensive graduate program equips students with the knowledge and supervised clinical experiences necessary to assess, diagnose, and treat speech, language, cognitive-communication, and swallowing disorders across the lifespan. Whether you are preparing for professional licensure in health care or education settings, the Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology provides a strong academic and clinical foundation grounded in evidence-based practice.
This masters in speech-language pathology program integrates rigorous coursework, clinical practicum experiences, and faculty-guided research opportunities. Students gain experience serving individuals with communication and swallowing disorders in a variety of environments, including medical centers, schools, specialty clinics, and community-based settings. The curriculum is designed to meet academic and clinical standards required for national certification and state licensure.
Through a carefully sequenced plan of study, students in this speech-language pathology masters program build expertise in speech sound disorders, language development and disorders, neurogenic communication disorders, voice and resonance disorders, fluency, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), and dysphagia. Coursework emphasizes culturally responsive care and interprofessional collaboration to prepare graduates for real-world clinical environments.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Gain in-depth knowledge of speech disorders, language development, anatomy and physiology of speech and swallowing, neuroscience, and diagnostic and therapeutic clinical practices.
- Clinical Experience: Complete extensive supervised clinical practicum hours across diverse populations and service delivery models, working with clients in health care, school-based, and community settings.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access specialized labs and clinical training environments designed for speech, language, and swallowing evaluation and treatment.
- Experienced Faculty: Learn from nationally recognized faculty members who are active scholars and clinicians dedicated to mentorship and student success.
- Research Opportunities: Engage in research addressing contemporary challenges in communication sciences and disorders, with opportunities to collaborate on faculty-led projects.
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For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Speech-Language Pathology, MAKU School of Health Professions
The Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology is part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, home to a collaborative and creative community making the world better through inquiry and research.Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the masters in speech-language pathology program will be prepared to:
- Assess and Diagnose: Apply standardized and non-standardized assessment tools to evaluate speech, language, cognitive-communication, and swallowing disorders across diverse populations.
- Treat Disorders: Design and implement evidence-based intervention plans tailored to individual client needs.
- Clinical Reasoning: Integrate current research with clinical expertise and client values to guide decision-making.
- Communicate Effectively: Collaborate professionally with patients, families, educators, and interdisciplinary health care teams.
- Ethical Practice: Demonstrate knowledge of professional standards, ethical guidelines, and regulatory requirements governing speech-language pathology practice.
- Engage in Lifelong Learning: Pursue continuing education and professional development to maintain clinical competence and certification.
What Careers are Possible with a Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology?
Graduates of the SLP masters program are prepared to pursue licensure and national certification as speech-language pathologists. Career opportunities are available in:
- Hospitals
- Outpatient clinics
- Rehabilitation centers
- Nursing facilities
- Early intervention programs
- K–12 schools and universities
- Private practice settings
Professionals with a speech-language pathology masters degree may also pursue leadership roles in clinical administration, supervision, or research. Some graduates continue into doctoral study in communication sciences and disorders or related fields. According to Lightcast, employment for individuals with graduate training in speech-language pathology is projected to grow approximately 18% over the next decade, reflecting strong national demand. Median annual compensation is approximately $95,000 nationally, though salary can vary based on experience, setting, and geographic location.
Tuition and Financial Aid
The Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology program is an investment in your future, and we offer several financial aid options, including graduate assistantships and scholarships. Tuition costs can vary based on residency status, and we encourage students to apply for financial aid to reduce costs.
For more details on tuition, financial aid, and assistantships, please visit KU Financial Aid.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for the Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. While a degree in speech pathology or a related field is recommended, applicants from other backgrounds are also welcome to apply.
- Official transcripts from previous institutions.
- Short written essay
- Minimum GPA in CSD/SPLH equivalent courses as calculated within the application’s online GPA calculator
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume/CV
For more information on admission requirements, visit KU Graduate Admissions.
Student Life and Learning Experiences
Students in the speech-language pathology masters program participate in structured clinical education experiences beginning early in the curriculum and progressing in complexity. Supervised practica provide hands-on training with pediatric and adult populations experiencing a wide range of communication and swallowing disorders.
In addition to clinical training, students may engage in faculty-led research projects exploring topics such as neurogenic communication disorders, pediatric language development, speech motor control, and culturally responsive practice. Interprofessional education experiences further enhance preparation for collaborative health care environments.
The academic community fosters mentorship, professional networking, and involvement in student organizations related to communication sciences and disorders. Through these experiences, students in one of the region’s leading speech-language pathology masters programs develop both clinical competence and professional identity.
Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology Sample Courses
The masters in speech-language pathology curriculum includes coursework such as:
- Multicultural Considerations in Speech-Language-Hearing
- Evaluation of Speech and Language
- Field Study in Speech-Language Pathology
- Infants and Toddler with Significant Needs
- Phonatory Disorders
For more information on the full list of courses, visit the KU Catalog.
Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications are due Jan. 6.
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in five semesters over two years.
Is SLP a good paying job?
Speech-language pathologists enjoy competitive salaries, with job growth expected to remain strong due to the increasing demand for services. Salaries can vary based on location, setting, and level of experience. However, SLPs are generally well-compensated, especially those working in health care and clinical settings.