B.S. in Speech Pathology & Audiology

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Application Fee: $50

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 73 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 49 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 100.

Western Illinois University (WIU) offers several scholarships to international students to assist them in financing their education. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, talents, leadership, and other criteria. 

Presidential Scholarships: These scholarships are among the most prestigious at WIU and are awarded to academically exceptional students. They cover a significant portion of tuition costs and are renewable for up to eight semesters.

International Commitment Scholarships: WIU offers a range of international commitment scholarships to incoming international undergraduate students. These scholarships are based on academic merit and are available at varying levels of funding.

International Transfer Scholarships: Transfer students from international institutions can apply for transfer scholarships to help fund their education at WIU. The scholarship amounts may vary based on academic achievement.

Global Excellence Scholarships: These scholarships are designed to recognize and support outstanding international students. They are awarded based on academic performance, leadership, and community involvement.

International Peace Scholarship: WIU offers this scholarship to female international students who have a strong commitment to international understanding and peace. It's part of the P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship Fund.

College and Departmental Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within WIU offer scholarships to international students pursuing specific fields of study. Eligibility criteria and award amounts may vary by department.

Foundation Scholarships: WIU's Foundation administers a wide range of scholarships, some of which are available to international students. These scholarships are often based on specific majors or criteria defined by donors.

External Scholarships: International students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities, both in their home countries and through international organizations, to help finance their education at WIU.

Fulbright Scholar Program: While not directly administered by WIU, international students can apply for the prestigious Fulbright Scholar Program, which provides funding for academic and cultural exchange opportunities in the United States.

To apply for scholarships at WIU, international students typically need to submit an application for admission and a separate scholarship application, if required. Deadlines and eligibility criteria can vary.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Speech Pathology & Audiology from Western Illinois University are well-prepared to pursue a range of rewarding career opportunities in the field of communication disorders. The program’s comprehensive curriculum and practical experience provide graduates with the skills needed for various roles in healthcare, education, and research. 

Speech-Language Pathology Assistant: Graduates can work as speech-language pathology assistants, supporting licensed speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in diagnosing and treating speech and language disorders. They assist with therapy sessions, conduct screenings, and help with administrative tasks, all under the supervision of a licensed professional.

Audiology Assistant: In this role, graduates assist audiologists in assessing and treating hearing disorders. They may conduct hearing tests, assist with hearing aid fittings and adjustments, and help patients with hearing-related inquiries, working closely with audiologists to provide comprehensive care.

Rehabilitation Aide: Graduates can work as rehabilitation aides in clinics or hospitals, where they support patients undergoing therapy for communication disorders. They help with therapy exercises, monitor patient progress, and assist with the use of therapeutic equipment.

Early Intervention Specialist: Graduates may work with young children who have communication delays or disorders as early intervention specialists. They design and implement strategies to support language development and collaborate with families to address the child's needs effectively.

Special Education Assistant: In educational settings, graduates can support students with communication disorders by working as special education assistants. They help implement individualized education plans (IEPs) and provide support to students with speech and language difficulties.

Research Assistant: Graduates can pursue careers as research assistants, contributing to studies on speech and hearing disorders. They assist with data collection, analysis, and interpretation, and support research projects that aim to advance understanding and treatment of communication disorders.

Audiology Sales Specialist: Graduates may work in sales or marketing for companies that produce hearing aids and other assistive listening devices. They provide product information, conduct demonstrations, and assist healthcare professionals and consumers in selecting appropriate devices.

Community Health Educator: Graduates can work as community health educators, promoting awareness about speech and hearing health issues. They develop educational programs, conduct workshops, and provide resources to help individuals and communities address communication disorders.

Patient Advocate: In this role, graduates work to ensure that patients with communication disorders receive appropriate care and support. They assist patients in navigating healthcare systems, accessing resources, and understanding their treatment options.

Clinical Coordinator: Graduates may take on administrative roles as clinical coordinators, managing the operations of speech and hearing clinics. They oversee scheduling, patient management, and coordination of care, ensuring that the clinic runs efficiently.