What does a speech-language pathologist do?
A speech-language pathologist, SLP, provides therapy services for children and adult clients who exhibit a wide range of communication disorders including articulation, language, swallowing, fluency, and voice disorders, as well as communication difficulties related to hearing loss. The American Speech Language Hearing Association, ASHA, has detailed descriptions of the potential responsibilities of SLPs in different employment settings.
Where do speech-language pathologists work?
Speech-language pathologists are employed in a variety of settings including hospitals, schools, clinics, and rehabilitation companies. The American Speech Language Hearing Association, ASHA, has detailed descriptions of the potential responsibilities of SLPs in different employment settings.
What is the entry-level degree to work as a speech-language pathologist?
The Master’s degree is required for licensure and certification in speech-language pathology.
How long will it take me to complete a master's degree at Rockhurst University?
The program is completed in five full-time semesters for students with an undergraduate degree in SLP. Leveling coursework is completed in one academic year for students with undergraduate degrees outside SLP. Part-time program options are available and individualized to the needs of the student. Please reach out if you have questions about a possible part-time program option.
Do I have to take the GRE to be admitted into the master's program?
No, the GRE is no longer required for admission to the Rockhurst University Master of Science in Speech-Language Disorders program.
How can I check on the status of my admission to the program?
To check on the status of a graduate application for admissions please contact Graduate Admissions.
Does Rockhurst have a student organization for SLP?
Yes! Rockhurst has an active student organization, the Rockhurst University Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association (RUSSLHA) that provides social, philanthropic, and academic enrichment events throughout the year.
Where do your students complete their clinical practicum hours?
A major strength of the Rockhurst University Master of Science in SLP program is the wide variety of clinical practicum experiences available to graduate students. The department has a large network of excellent clinical training opportunities with hospitals, schools, rehabilitation facilities, early childhood, and private practice clinics in the Kansas City area.
Who will help me plan my program of study?
Each student is assigned a clinical and academic advisor and meetings occur at regular intervals throughout the program to support your progression in the program.
Is Rockhurst's SLP program accredited?
Yes, the Rockhurst SLP program is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation: The Master of Science (M.S.) education program in speech-language pathology (residential, distance education, and satellite locations) at Rockhurst University is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, 2200 Research Boulevard, #310, Rockville, MD 20850, 800-498-2071 or 301-296-5700.
Is financial assistance available?
Please contact the Financial Aid Office for information regarding financial assistance.
Do many of the SLP graduate students hold part-time jobs?
While having a part-time job is not discouraged, many students find most of their time during the week taken up with classes, clinical experiences, and studying. Students must consider taking a part-time job seriously consider their time management skills, as strong academic and clinical performance are imperative to the continuation and completion of the program.