Master of Social Work - Traditional
The traditional Master of Social Work (MSW) program at the University at Buffalo is des...
M.A. in Speech Language Pathology
Buffalo, New York
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The M.A. in Speech-Language Pathology at UB is a rigorous, full-time professional program that combines in-depth academic coursework with diverse, hands-on clinical experiences. The program's core mission is to prepare students for rewarding careers where they can help individuals improve their ability to communicate, a fundamental aspect of human connection. Students gain comprehensive training in assessing, diagnosing, and treating various speech, language, and swallowing disorders. The program offers opportunities for students to explore their passions within the field, ensuring they are well-prepared for the broad scope of practice and diverse settings in which SLPs work.
ASHA Accredited: The Master of Arts (M.A.) education program in Speech-Language Pathology (residential) at the University at Buffalo is fully accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). This accreditation is crucial as it signifies that the program meets the highest professional standards, ensuring that graduates are eligible to sit for the PRAXIS examination, which is required for ASHA's Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP) and for state licensure in New York and other states. The current accreditation is valid through 2031, providing assurance of the program's ongoing quality and relevance.
Curriculum: The M.A. in Speech-Language Pathology requires a minimum of 40 credit hours of academic courses in Communicative Disorders and Sciences, in addition to required clinical practicum credits. The actual number of hours may vary based on a student's undergraduate background and any necessary prerequisite coursework. The curriculum is designed to fulfill the academic and clinical requirements for the ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC/SLP). Core areas of study include normal processes involved in speech, language, and hearing, as well as the etiology, symptomatology, prevention, and remediation of various disorders. Students also complete 375 clock hours of supervised clinical practicum across a variety of communicative disorders and with all ages. This includes mandatory clinical practicum sessions in the UB Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Clinic and two full-time externships in community settings like hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and school districts.
Research Focus: Research plays a vital role in the M.A. in Speech-Language Pathology program at UB, emphasizing evidence-based practice and contributing to the advancement of clinical knowledge. While a master's thesis is not a required component for the degree, it is a strongly recommended option for students considering doctoral study, providing an opportunity for in-depth original research. Faculty members in the Department of Communicative Disorders and Sciences conduct extensive research that spans across the lifespan and across speech, language, and hearing, aiming to improve clinical practice and patient outcomes. Current research explores areas such as the application of artificial intelligence for early detection of dyslexia and dysgraphia, as well as other speech and language processing challenges in children. This active research environment allows students to explore deeper topics of interest and develop their skills in understanding and implementing research findings.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a cornerstone of the M.A. in Speech-Language Pathology program, with a strong emphasis on hands-on clinical experience. Students gain real-life experience through supervised practicum rotations in the UB Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Clinic, which provides services to the local Western New York community. Additionally, students complete two full-time externships in diverse off-campus settings such as hospitals, skilled nursing homes, outpatient/inpatient rehabilitation centers, school districts, and private clinics. These placements provide direct interaction with clients across the age spectrum and a wide range of disorders, under the mentorship of experienced, ASHA-certified speech-language pathologists. This extensive clinical training ensures graduates are well-prepared for the demands of the profession and have established professional networks upon graduation.
Global Perspective: The M.A. in Speech-Language Pathology program at UB, while primarily focused on preparing professionals for practice within the United States, inherently gains a global perspective through its engagement with diverse populations and universal aspects of human communication. The university's diverse student body and faculty contribute to a rich cross-cultural learning environment. While specific study abroad opportunities are not highlighted as a distinct feature of this professional program, the curriculum prepares students to serve individuals from various linguistic and cultural backgrounds. The understanding of communication as a complex human process, as well as the exploration of communication disorders across the lifespan, are universally applicable skills that prepare graduates to address communication challenges in an increasingly interconnected world.
Location
Buffalo, New York
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 28210
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 90 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 61 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 120.
The University at Buffalo (UB) offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid opportunities specifically aimed at supporting international students who wish to pursue their studies in the United States. These scholarships are designed to reward academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement, helping to make education more affordable for talented students worldwide.
Merit-Based Scholarships: UB provides competitive merit scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate and graduate students. Awards such as the International Student Academic Excellence Scholarship recognize high-achieving students based on their academic records, standardized test scores, and extracurricular involvement.
Graduate Fellowships and Assistantships: Graduate international students can apply for teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and fellowships which offer tuition remission and stipends. These opportunities allow students to gain valuable teaching and research experience while offsetting the cost of their education.
Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments at UB offer scholarships tailored to students in specific programs or fields of study. These awards may consider academic merit, research interests, or financial need.
External Scholarships: UB encourages international students to explore external scholarship options from private organizations, governments, and international foundations that support study in the U.S. The university’s International Student Services office provides guidance on identifying and applying for such funding sources.
A Master of Arts (M.A.) in Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) from the State University of New York at Buffalo (UB) is a highly specialized and professionally accredited degree designed to prepare graduates for a rewarding career in helping individuals with communication and swallowing disorders. This program combines rigorous academic coursework with extensive, hands-on clinical experience, emphasizing evidence-based practice and preparing graduates for ASHA certification and state licensure.
School-Based Speech-Language Pathologist: A significant number of SLPs work in public and private school settings (PreK-12). They assess, diagnose, and treat speech, language, voice, fluency, and swallowing disorders in children, develop individualized education plans (IEPs), and collaborate with teachers, parents, and other specialists to support student learning and communication.
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Hospital-Based Speech-Language Pathologist: SLPs in hospitals (acute care, rehabilitation, psychiatric, children's hospitals) work with patients of all ages who have communication or swallowing difficulties due to conditions like stroke, traumatic brain injury, neurological disorders, or head and neck cancer. They conduct evaluations, provide direct treatment, and educate patients and families.
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Rehabilitation Center Speech-Language Pathologist: Similar to hospitals, SLPs in rehabilitation centers focus on helping patients regain communication and swallowing skills after a medical event or injury. They often work as part of an interdisciplinary team, aiming to improve functional independence and quality of life.
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Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Speech-Language Pathologist: In nursing homes and long-term care facilities, SLPs primarily work with elderly residents managing speech, language, cognitive-communication, and swallowing challenges, often related to aging, dementia, or post-stroke recovery. They design treatment plans and provide therapy to maintain or improve function.
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Private Practice Speech-Language Pathologist: Many SLPs choose to work in or establish their own private practices. This offers flexibility in client population (e.g., specializing in pediatrics, voice, or adult neurogenic disorders) and work schedule. Private practitioners provide direct clinical services, consultation, and often manage the business aspects of their practice.
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Early Intervention Specialist: SLPs are crucial in early intervention programs, working with infants and toddlers (birth to three years old) who have or are at risk for developmental delays in communication and feeding. Services are often provided in the child's home or childcare setting, with significant parent education and involvement.
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Outpatient Clinic Speech-Language Pathologist: These settings serve a diverse range of clients who do not require inpatient care. SLPs in outpatient clinics assess and treat various communication and swallowing disorders, often on a recurring basis, providing ongoing therapy and support.
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University Clinic Supervisor / Clinical Educator: Experienced SLPs with a master's degree can supervise and mentor graduate students in university-affiliated clinics, guiding their clinical practicum experiences and helping to shape the next generation of speech-language pathologists. Some may also teach specific clinical courses.
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Telepractice Speech-Language Pathologist: With advancements in technology, telepractice (or teletherapy) has become a growing field. SLPs can provide remote assessment and intervention services to clients using telecommunication technologies, increasing access to care for individuals in rural areas or those with mobility limitations.
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Research Assistant / Program Coordinator: While a Ph.D. is typically required for lead research roles, an M.A. in SLP can lead to positions as research assistants in university labs or medical centers, contributing to studies on communication and swallowing disorders. They may also work as program coordinators for public health initiatives related to communication.
