The knowledge to lead
and improve lives.
and improve lives.
When you get your master’s degree from Saint Mary’s, you will be known as the speech language pathologist who says "yes" to the difficult cases. You will tailor treatment to the individual, and know how to adjust to any situation. Upon graduation you will have the skills to do more than simply be aware of the needs of others. You will enter this high-demand field with the ability to lead as a speech language pathologist or to pursue your doctorate degree.
Outstanding Faculty / Real-World Curriculum
At Saint Mary’s, you will learn from faculty members who understand the current, complex field of speech language pathology. Considerable attention is paid to your ability to think critically and communicate effectively, imperative skills in today's job market. Our Speech Language Pathology faculty are devoted to furthering their fields, practicing what they teach and bring you the very latest in professional theory and technological advances.
Career Paths
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that careers in speech language pathology will grow much faster than the average job growth rate—increasing by 25% between 2019 and 2029. Speech language pathologists work in various settings:
- Elementary, middle and high schools
- Home health agencies and rehabilitation centers
- Skilled nursing facilities
- Hospitals and outpatient clinics
- Offices of ear, nose and throat doctors
Speech language pathology is a rewarding career where you will be able to help your clients improve the quality of their lives through communication. Our curriculum is designed to provide you with the foundation to start working as a speech language who can practice anywhere.
In 2021, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), conducted a survey of SLPs in six categories of healthcare and found the average annual salary for a full-time speech language pathologist is $80,000. Most SLPs can expect to earn around $64,000 annually upon graduation.
Dual Degree Available
Expand your opportunities by earning both a Master of Autism Studies (MAS) and a Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology (MSSLP). In just three years, this dual degree program will prepare you to respond to the critical needs of people with autism while shaping you into a strong clinical practitioner. The interdisciplinary coursework addresses the science of autism spectrum disorder and its various forms of intervention. Hands-on opportunities will hone your skills through placements in a variety of settings, including schools, healthcare facilities, and early intervention programs.
SLP Bridge Program
At Saint Mary’s, you can earn your master’s degree in Speech Language Pathology without a bachelor’s degree in communication science and disorders. Our SLP Bridge Program allows students with an undergraduate degree in another field to become a licensed speech language pathologist. This program prepares you for our graduate programs and provides:
- Clinical opportunities on campus before you start your master’s program
- Meaningful professional connections
- Professional speech language pathologist
- The chance for a second bachelor’s degree for Saint Mary’s alumnae
On-Site Clinic
Saint Mary’s College is home to the Judd Leighton Speech and Language Clinic, providing services for children and adults with communication disorders. Services are provided by student clinicians who are supervised by an American Speech-Language and Hearing Association (ASHA) certified Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) who is licensed in the state of Indiana. Saint Mary’s College offers clinical experiences in the on-site clinic, as well as an early childhood development center and a long term care facility. Our students have a wide range of clinical opportunities without having to go far.
Community Partnerships
You can expect to make an impact in an area in great need of your services. Currently, there is a shortage of qualified speech language pathologists in education and healthcare settings. Thanks to extensive community partnerships, you'll be able to make a dent in this shortage while gaining firsthand experience working with clients.
On Campus Housing
On-campus housing for graduate students in the Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology program is available in Regina Hall. If you’d rather live off-campus, many rental options for nearby apartments and houses are available.
Accreditation
The Master of Science (M.S.) education program in speech-language pathology (residential) at Saint Mary’s College 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.