Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Prepare to serve diverse populations with communication and swallowing disorders.

A combination of coursework and clinical experiences both on and off campus prepares you with the skills you need to become a certified and licensed speech-language pathologist.

PennWest’s Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MSSLP) puts you on the path to serving diverse individuals and communities in a wide variety of settings as a speech-language pathologist.

Our knowledgeable faculty are dedicated to enhancing your intellectual, cultural, social and ethical development. We make that happen by emphasizing complete integration of theory, research and practice.

From your first days on campus, you’ll be connected to an experienced advisor who will help you focus on your specific interests and map out a path to ensure success. In all, you will engage in five clinical rotations, three on campus and two externships in various clinical settings. These experiences will help you gain the necessary clinical skills to make informed professional judgments and become a client-and-community-centered practitioner.

Our program builds a professional community through engagement in various educational, advocacy and service opportunities so you will graduate ready to make an impact in your community.

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Fact Sheet

Executive Summary

Student Outcome Data

PennWest University Fall 2023 tuition costs are being finalized and are expected to be released in early 2023.

Accreditation Matters
CAA Logo

The Master of Science (MS) education program in speech-language pathology {residential, distance education, and satellite locations} at Pennsylvania Western 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.

On-Campus Speech and Hearing Clinics

These on-campus clinics serve as a supervised training environment for graduate students to observe, screen, assess, counsel and provide therapeutic intervention for communication and/or swallowing disorders.

Clarion Speech & Hearing Clinic
California Speech & Hearing Clinic
Edinboro Speech & Hearing Clinic

Advocacy and Leadership

Local chapters of the National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association prepare you to become active members, advocates and leaders in state and national professional organizations.

Fast Facts

$79,060

The median salary of a speech-language pathologist in 2021 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Credits:

60

Format:

Face-to-face

Location:

Edinboro

California

Clarion

Contact:

Graduate Admissions
gradadmissions@pennwest.edu
724-938-4187

Start Terms:

Fall, Spring

Careers and Salaries

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of speech-language pathologists is projected to grow 21 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Approximately 40% of speech-language pathologists work in educational settings, while others work in hospitals, outpatient therapy facilities, in nursing and residential care facilities and in private practice.

The median salary of a speech-language pathologist in 2021 was $79,060 per year.

Graduate Outcomes

  1. Demonstrate adequate knowledge of principles of basic science and normal development in relation to speech, language and hearing for entry level into the profession.
  2. Demonstrate knowledge of characteristics, etiologies, and diagnostic and treatment methods for each disorder area within the scope of practice for speech-language pathology.
  3. Apply and integrate discipline-specific knowledge to develop and implement appropriate diagnostic and clinical management plans, providing services resulting in evidence-based practice in speech language pathology.
  4. Demonstrate knowledge of professional and ethical standards of conduct.

The Power of PennWest

PennWest’s three campuses, California, Clarion and Edinboro universities, have been delivering award-winning online programs for more than 20 years. You’ll graduate with a degree from Pennsylvania Western University, completely supported by the expertise and community of learners on our brick-and-mortar campuses.

Flexible. Affordable.
Designed to Meet Your needs.