M.A. in Speech Language Pathology

Entry requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

1. Academic Requirements:

• Applicants must have completed a recognized undergraduate degree from an accredited institution.
• A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or its equivalent) is required. This translates to approximately 60% or above in the grading system.

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0.
• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 80.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 53.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105.

3. Standardized Tests:

• GRE: A minimum GRE score of 300 is required.

California State University, Fresno, is committed to supporting the academic aspirations of international students by offering various scholarships and financial aid opportunities. These scholarships help ease the financial burden of pursuing higher education in the United States. 

1. International Student Scholarship: Fresno State offers merit-based scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement and may cover a significant portion of tuition costs.

2. Dean's Graduate Medal: This scholarship is awarded to the top graduate student from each academic college at Fresno State. It recognizes outstanding academic achievement and contributions to the college.

3. President's Graduate Medal: The President's Graduate Medal is the highest honor for a graduate student at Fresno State. It is awarded to a graduate student who has demonstrated exceptional scholarship, leadership, and service.

4. Graduate Equity Fellowship: The Graduate Equity Fellowship is designed to support underrepresented and economically disadvantaged graduate students. It provides financial assistance and mentoring to help students succeed in their academic pursuits.

5. Athletic Scholarships: Fresno State offers athletic scholarships to talented student-athletes. These scholarships are typically awarded to individuals who excel in specific sports and contribute to the university's athletic programs.

6. External Scholarships: International students can also explore external scholarship opportunities, including those offered by government agencies, private organizations, and foundations in their home countries.

7. Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at Fresno State may offer scholarships to graduate students in specific fields of study. These scholarships often have specific eligibility criteria and application processes.

8. Fulbright Scholarships: Fresno State participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships for international students to study, teach, or conduct research in the United States. Applicants can apply for Fulbright scholarships through the Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy in their home country.

9. Cultural and Exchange Program Scholarships: Fresno State may offer scholarships to international students participating in cultural exchange programs or partnership agreements with specific universities and organizations.

10. Research and Teaching Assistantships: Graduate students may have opportunities to work as research or teaching assistants, which often come with a stipend and/or tuition remission.

Tips for Scholarship Application:

• Applicants should pay close attention to scholarship application deadlines and ensure that all required documents are submitted on time.
• Strong academic performance, letters of recommendation, a well-written personal statement, and a demonstrated commitment to community involvement and leadership can enhance scholarship application chances.

Graduates of the M.A. in Speech-Language Pathology program at California State University, Fresno, are in high demand in various professional settings.

1. Speech-Language Pathologist: Graduates can work as licensed speech-language pathologists in K-12 schools, healthcare settings, private practices, or rehabilitation centers, providing assessment and treatment for individuals with communication and swallowing disorders.

2. Clinical Supervisor: Experienced SLPs may take on supervisory roles, overseeing clinical programs and mentoring future SLPs.

3. Researcher: Those interested in research can pursue careers in academia or research institutions, conducting studies to advance the field of speech-language pathology.

4. Healthcare Settings: SLPs can work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, collaborating with medical teams to provide services to patients with communication and swallowing disorders.

5. School Districts: Many graduates choose to work in school districts, helping students with speech and language disorders achieve their educational goals.

6. Private Practice: Some SLPs establish private practices, offering specialized services to clients in need of speech-language therapy.

7. Telepractice: With advancements in technology, SLPs can provide services via telepractice, serving clients remotely.

8. Research Organizations: Graduates can join research organizations focused on communication sciences and disorders, contributing to cutting-edge research and development.

9. Nonprofit Organizations: SLPs may work for nonprofit organizations that support individuals with communication disorders and their families.

10. Consultant: Experienced SLPs can work as consultants, providing expertise to schools, healthcare facilities, and organizations.

11. Ph.D. Pursuits: The M.A. program serves as a strong foundation for those interested in pursuing doctoral studies in speech-language pathology or related fields.