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

The Master’s Degree program in speech-language pathology (SLP) is administered through Vanderbilt University’s School of Medicine. The Master’s degree program provides clinical education leading to professional certification in speech-language pathology. The 1.5 to 2.0 calendar years (depending on background) covers at least five semesters (51-59 semester hours), including the summer session following the first calendar year of full-time study. Students without a background in Communication Disorders will require an extra semester. Throughout the program, many clinical opportunities are available. The program culminates in a ten-week clinical or research externship at a site of the student’s choosing. The program exceeds American Speech-Language-Hearing Association requirements. Cochlear implant, autism courses and education courses are a part of the curriculum for students with interests in those areas. There is also a thesis option.

Students with backgrounds in such areas as communication disorders and other health related professions, biomedical sciences, psychology and psycholinguistics are encouraged to apply. All students must possess GRE scores consistent with Vanderbilt’s standards; a strong record of past academic achievement; a commitment to perseverance; and exceptional organizational and time management skills.