The master of science education program in speech language pathology at Marshall 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. Communication Disorders majors at the graduate level follow a prescribed program leading to eligibility for national certification in Speech-Language Pathology by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and licensure by the West Virginia Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology. Students wishing to be eligible for West Virginia certification as public school speech-language pathologists must also meet the requirements for such certification.
Admissions
Program/Degree Requirements
The Communication Disorders Program is a full-time, residential program designed for completion in 6 semesters. A minimum of 35 graduate credit hours of academic coursework is required in addition to clinical practicum. All practicum necessary to complete certification requirements must be completed prior to graduation. Minimum practicum requirements include 24 hours of clinical courses. Student who are assigned clinical practicum are expected to fulfill the responsibilities of these assignments for the full semester. Students who fail to do so may not be assured of future assignments.
The student and advisor will develop a Plan of Study or blueprint for graduation requirements. The Plan of Study must be on file in the Graduate College office before the student registers for the 12th semester hour.
The Speech-Language Pathology specialty area exam of the ETS Praxis Series serves as the comprehensive examination required for all students. A score of 163 or better is considered passing and is required for graduation. In addition to the comprehensive examination, a candidate who writes a thesis will be required to pass an oral examination on the thesis.
Students should consult the department chair, their Communication Disorders academic advisor, and the clinic handbook regarding all academic and clinical requirements and standards specific to the program