Speech-Language Pathology (M.S.)
Degree: Master of Science
Major: Speech-Language Pathology
Total Hours: 54
Graduate Programs in Speech and Hearing Science Lamar University programs in audiology and in speech-language pathology hold national accreditation by the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
Master of Science (M.S.) in Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) students completing a master’s degree in speech-language pathology typically meet the national certification standards of ASHA as well as requirements for state licensure. SLP M.S. graduates who meet ASHA certification and state licensure standards are considered eligible for employment as speech-language pathologists. Depending on the student’s undergraduate program of study, the typical 54-semester-hour master’s degree may need to be expanded to accommodate ASHA certification and state licensure requirements. SLP M.S. students must complete a minimum of 375 hours of supervised clinical practicum.
Graduates may apply to ASHA for the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) in SLP. This national certification requires the completion of specified course work and clinical practice. Students seeking ASHA certification should obtain a copy of ASHA regulations from a faculty advisor early in their training program. M.S. SLP students are required to take comprehensive exams during their final semester. Further, ASHA standards mandate the passing of a national qualifying board examination (ETS Praxis) for prospective speech-language pathologists. Master’s students typically take this examination during their final semester.