A Guide to Researching Speech-Language Pathology Programs

Steps to Finding Your Speech-Language Pathology Program

Define Your Criteria

• Accreditation: Look for programs accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA).

  Why? If you have any desire to legally work as a Speech-Language Pathologist, you’ll need to become licensed in your state. A master’s degree in speech-language pathology is a ubiquitous requirement for licensure in every state. Additionally, states regulate the quality of education required for speech-language pathologists and CAA accreditation is the seal of approval states see as proof of quality.

• Location: Consider geographic preferences, cost of living, and proximity to family or other support systems.

  Additionally, consider the potential for networking with professionals, alumni, and industry leaders. Being in a hub for your field can facilitate valuable connections that may enhance your career prospects. Even if you are completing your program online, it’s likely the network you gain through your professors will be located within the university’s home city.

• Program Focus: Some programs may emphasize certain areas of SLP more than others (e.g., pediatric speech therapy, research, audiology).

  If you don’t know which demographic you want to work with, consider contacting professionals working with each demographic. Ask if you might be able to either volunteer at their place of work, or at the very least, have a cup of coffee together and talk about what it’s like working in the various areas.

• Duration and Format: Determine whether you prefer a traditional, online, or hybrid program, and consider the length of the program.

  Pros of an Online Program: Online programs offer flexibility in terms of scheduling. This works great for those who have families or work commitments while pursuing their degree. Cost savings can be substantial depending on the program, but also due to not having to relocate and pay for rent in a new, potentially expensive, college town.

  Pros of a Traditional (On-Campus) Program: In-person interactions with professors and peers and fostering a sense of community within your cohort and have a positive impact on the whole experience. Additionally, this can lead to more impactful networking efforts. Might be easier to gain access to clinical experience; however, this is required of all SLP programs, so this may not be as important as it initially seems. Structured schedules can be a huge benefit to those who need help to organize and motivate themselves to get work done. 

• Clinical Experiences: Look at the clinical placement opportunities and the variety of experiences offered.

  If you have a preference for working with a specific demographic, it will be important to make sure the program you choose has access to clinical experience opportunities within that area. Otherwise, you may find it difficult to land your first job in the area as well.

Start with Broad Research

• Online Searches: Begin by searching for Speech Pathologist degree programs in your state and online.

  Learn more about SLP and Communications degree options by exploring our Communication Sciences and Disorders Education Guide.

• Professional Organizations: Check resources from organizations like the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).

  Find speech-language pathology professional organizations in your state.

• Rankings and Reviews: Although not the only factor to consider, educational rankings and student reviews can provide some insights into the quality of a speech pathology program.

  Speech pathology degree programs are often evaluated and ranked based on factors such as academic reputation, faculty expertise, peer reviews, program resources, clinical opportunities, research output, and student outcomes. It’s important to recognize online program ranking can be subjective, but they can also help narrow down options based on criteria that is important to you.

Deep Dive into Specific Programs

Visiting program websites, contacting admissions offices, and attending information sessions or open houses are essential steps to gather detailed and personalized information about speech pathology programs. This information is crucial for making an informed decision about which program aligns best with your academic and career goals.

• Visit Program Websites: Thoroughly review the curriculum, faculty profiles, clinical opportunities, and research labs. Program websites can also provide comprehensive information about the curriculum, admission requirements, and resources available to students. This allows you to get a broad overview of the program offerings and structure.

• Contact Admissions Offices: Ask about admissions requirements, application deadlines, and any prerequisite courses. If you have specific questions or need clarification on certain aspects of the program, reaching out to the admissions office allows you to get accurate and personalized information.

  Additionally, establishing contact with the admissions office can create an early connection with program staff, making you more familiar with the institution and potentially facilitating a smoother application process.

• Attend Information Sessions: Many programs offer open houses, webinars, or virtual tours. The following are some benefits to spending the time directly connecting with a program in this way:

  • Program Culture and Atmosphere: Information sessions or open houses provide an opportunity to get a sense of the program’s culture, atmosphere, and overall environment. This firsthand experience can help you assess whether the program is a good fit for you.

  • Meet Faculty and Current Students: Attending events allows you to meet faculty members, current students, and alumni. Conversations with these individuals can provide valuable insights into the program’s strengths, challenges, and the kind of support you can expect.

  • Tour Facilities: Open houses often include tours of the program’s facilities, including classrooms, laboratories, and clinical spaces. This allows you to see firsthand the resources available to students.

  • Networking Opportunities: Information sessions and open houses provide networking opportunities with program staff and other prospective students. Building connections during these events can be beneficial throughout your academic journey and beyond.

  • Ask Questions: These events usually include Q&A sessions, giving you the chance to ask specific questions about the program, faculty, curriculum, and any concerns you may have.

Connect with Current Students and Alumni

• Networking Events: Attend SLP-related events, conferences, or local meetups.
• Social Media and Forums: Engage with students and alumni on platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook groups, or specialized forums.

Connecting with current students and alumni of speech pathology programs is a valuable step in the research process, providing firsthand insights into the program’s culture, strengths, and potential challenges. There are various avenues for establishing these connections.

Social media and online forums related to speech pathology are another avenue for connecting with current students and alumni. Many individuals actively participate in these platforms, sharing their experiences and responding to queries from prospective students. This digital interaction allows for a broader reach and access to a diverse range of perspectives.

Attending alumni events, networking mixers, and professional conferences related to speech pathology presents additional opportunities for connecting with individuals who have completed the program. These events often provide a more casual setting for networking and informal conversations.

On-campus visits and tours can be tailored to include interactions with current students, giving you a chance to learn more about their experiences and perspectives. Program coordinators or advisors can also facilitate connections with current students and alumni, providing a more structured approach to networking.

Understanding the importance of connecting with current students and alumni is crucial. This firsthand information goes beyond official program materials, offering real-world insights into the program’s atmosphere, collaborative nature, and the unique aspects that may not be immediately evident. Furthermore, these connections can expand your professional network, offering potential mentorship, job opportunities, and personalized advice based on their experiences navigating the program and post-graduation career paths. Ultimately, establishing these connections contributes to a more informed decision-making process as you choose the speech pathology program that aligns best with your goals and preferences.

Consider Financial Aspects

• Tuition and Fees: Evaluate the cost of each program and any additional expenses.
• Financial Aid: Research scholarships, grants, assistantships, and work-study opportunities.

Financial considerations are integral to the assessment of speech pathology programs, encompassing various aspects that influence the overall cost and impact on a student’s future. When comparing programs, it is essential to delve into several financial factors to make an informed decision.

Firstly, the total cost of attendance should be carefully calculated, combining tuition, fees, and estimated living expenses. Additionally, evaluating the cost of living in the program’s location is vital, as higher living costs can significantly contribute to the overall financial burden. Understanding the financial aid and scholarship opportunities offered by each program is crucial. These can substantially alleviate the upfront costs of education.

Another aspect to consider is the potential for additional costs associated with clinical placements, such as travel expenses or mandatory background checks. It is also important to assess the estimated costs for textbooks, clinical materials, and other supplies, as these expenses can vary between programs. Research-related expenses, if applicable, should be taken into account.

When comparing programs, it’s not just about the immediate costs but also the potential return on investment (ROI). This involves considering the program’s reputation, the success of its alumni in securing employment, and the overall quality of education against the total cost of education.

As an example, let’s consider two speech pathology programs. Program A has a higher tuition but offers substantial scholarships, assistantships, and has a strong reputation for producing successful graduates. The cost of living in the area is moderate. On the other hand, Program B has lower tuition but limited financial aid options, and the cost of living in its location is high. The financial impact for a student choosing Program A might involve higher upfront costs, but the potential return on investment could be favorable with better financial aid, strong program reputation, and increased employability. Conversely, a student choosing Program B may have lower immediate costs but could face higher living expenses and limited financial support, potentially impacting long-term financial outcomes.

A comprehensive assessment of financial aspects involves considering both upfront and long-term costs, available financial aid, and the potential return on investment based on program reputation and alumni success. Making informed financial decisions is paramount for ensuring a sustainable and positive future for the student.

Create a Shortlist

• Prioritize: Based on your research, create a list of programs that best match your criteria.

Creating a shortlist of speech pathology programs serves as a strategic and practical approach during the research phase for prospective students. The abundance of available programs can be overwhelming, and a shortlist helps individuals concentrate their efforts on a select number of options that best align with their academic and personal preferences.

A key advantage of having a shortlist is the ability to conduct more focused research. This narrowed focus ensures that each program on the list can be thoroughly investigated without feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of choices. Additionally, a shortlist facilitates efficient decision-making, particularly when considering factors like application deadlines and admissions processes.

Stay Organized

• Track Deadlines: Keep a calendar of application deadlines, prerequisites, and required tests like the GRE.
• Documentation: Organize all the information and documents needed for application.

Seek Guidance

• Academic Advisors: If you’re currently in school, consult with academic advisors or career counselors.
• Professional Mentors: Reach out to professionals in the field for advice and insights.

By following these steps, you can systematically evaluate various programs and make an informed decision about where to apply. Remember, choosing the right SLP program is a personal decision, and what’s ideal for one person may not be the best fit for another.