Communication Disorders, MS

20 Months On Campus Masters Program

Arizona State University Tempe

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Communication Disorders at Arizona State University prepares students for professional careers as speech-language pathologists, helping individuals with speech, language, cognitive, hearing, feeding, and swallowing difficulties. The programme combines advanced academic coursework with extensive supervised clinical training, allowing students to develop practical skills in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment while working with children and adults across diverse clinical environments, including schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centres, and private practices.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students develop a strong foundation in communication disorders, clinical assessment, and evidence-based intervention techniques. Core subjects include Neural Bases of Communication Disorders (SHS 567), which examines the neurological foundations of communication; Language Assessment and Intervention in Infants and Toddlers (SHS 572), which focuses on early language development; Articulation and Phonology: Assessment and Intervention (SHS 585), which explores speech sound difficulties; and Aphasia and Related Neurogenic Language Disorders (SHS 575), which examines acquired communication disorders. Students also study Clinical Methods and Simulation in Speech-Language Pathology (SHS 538) and begin supervised clinical training through Clinical Practicum (SHS 580).

Year 2: Students advance their clinical expertise through specialised coursework and supervised placements in schools, hospitals, and healthcare facilities. Subjects include Management of Feeding and Swallowing Disorders (SHS 574), Fluency Disorders (SHS 578), Voice and Resonance Disorders (SHS 579), Current Assessment, Intervention and Research in Autism (SHS 577), and Traumatic Brain Injury and Cognitive Linguistic Disorders (SHS 581). Students also complete Clinical Internship (SHS 584), gaining professional experience in real-world settings, and finish their degree through either a master's thesis or a written comprehensive examination.

Focus Areas

Speech-Language Pathology, Communication Disorders, Speech Sound Disorders, Articulation and Phonology, Language Development, Aphasia, Neurogenic Communication Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Fluency Disorders, Voice and Resonance Disorders, Feeding and Swallowing Disorders, Traumatic Brain Injury, Cognitive-Communication Disorders, Augmentative and Alternative Communication, Multilingual and Multicultural Communication, Clinical Assessment and Diagnosis, Evidence-Based Intervention.

Learning Outcomes

Develop the ability to evaluate and treat individuals with communication and swallowing disorders across the lifespan; apply evidence-based approaches to clinical assessment, diagnosis, and intervention; understand the anatomical, neurological, physiological, developmental, and cultural foundations of communication; formulate appropriate treatment recommendations for individuals with diverse communication needs; assess speech, language, literacy, cognition, and swallowing difficulties; collaborate effectively with healthcare professionals, educators, families, and community organisations; demonstrate ethical and professional conduct in clinical practice; use research findings to support effective, person-centred speech-language pathology services.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The Communication Disorders, MS programme at Arizona State University is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). The programme is designed to meet ASHA certification standards for speech-language pathologists and prepares graduates to pursue professional certification and state licensure, subject to applicable requirements. Students must also complete the ASHA Praxis national examination in Speech-Language Pathology.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

ASU describes the Communication Disorders MS as a nationally ranked programme.
The programme offers practical clinical experience through university clinics, hospitals, public schools, early intervention programmes, and private practices.
Students gain experience working with culturally and linguistically diverse populations.
Graduates can pursue careers in schools, acute-care hospitals, neonatal intensive care units, outpatient rehabilitation centres, paediatric clinics, and private practices.
The programme prepares graduates for professional roles in speech-language pathology, clinical assessment, communication rehabilitation, and healthcare services.
ASU does not specify a numerical employability ranking for this individual programme.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Arizona State University Tempe, the MS in Communication Disorders program is designed to provide students with hands-on, practical experiences that are essential for developing the skills needed in the field. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and tools that enhance their learning and prepare them for real-world challenges. The program emphasizes experiential learning through various opportunities, including internships, collaborative projects, and specialized labs.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in the MS Communication Disorders program:

- Clinical Practicum: Students engage in supervised clinical experiences at the ASU Speech and Hearing Clinic, where they work directly with clients under the guidance of licensed professionals.

- Research Opportunities: The program encourages participation in research projects, allowing students to collaborate with faculty on cutting-edge studies in communication disorders.

- Advanced Technology: Students utilize specialized software and digital tools, such as speech analysis software and assistive communication devices, to enhance their learning and clinical practice.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a core component of the curriculum, fostering teamwork and communication skills essential for future professionals.

- Internships: The program offers internship placements in various settings, including schools, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers, providing students with valuable real-world experience.

- Laboratories: Students have access to dedicated research labs equipped with the latest technology for studying speech and language disorders.

- Field Trips: The program includes field trips to local clinics and organizations, giving students insight into different professional environments and practices.

- Libraries and Resources: ASU's libraries provide extensive resources, including access to journals, databases, and materials specific to communication disorders.

- Institute for Speech and Hearing: The program is affiliated with the ASU Institute for Speech and Hearing, which focuses on research and community outreach in the field.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enhance your academic experience but also prepare you for a successful career in communication disorders.

Choosing the MS Communication Disorders program at ASU Tempe means you’ll be equipped with the practical skills and experiences that employers are looking for. I encourage you to apply and take the next step toward a rewarding career!

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing an MS in Communication Disorders at Arizona State University (ASU) Tempe opens the door to a rewarding career in a field that is both impactful and in high demand. Graduates from this program often find themselves in roles such as Speech-Language Pathologists, Audiologists, Clinical Researchers, and Rehabilitation Specialists. The skills and knowledge gained here will prepare you for a successful career dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with communication challenges.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of progression and future opportunities:

- University Services: ASU offers robust career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events specifically tailored for communication disorders students. The ASU Career Services team also connects students with internships and job placements in local clinics and hospitals.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for speech-language pathologists is projected to grow by 25% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. The median annual salary for speech-language pathologists is around $80,000, with potential for higher earnings based on experience and specialization.

- University–Industry Partnerships: ASU has established partnerships with leading healthcare providers and rehabilitation centers, providing students with hands-on experience and networking opportunities that can lead to job placements after graduation.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The MS in Communication Disorders program is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA), ensuring that your degree meets the highest standards and is recognized nationally.

- Graduation Outcomes: ASU boasts a high graduation rate, with many students successfully passing their licensure exams and securing employment shortly after completing their degree.

Further Academic Progression: After earning your MS in Communication Disorders, you may choose to pursue a Doctorate in Speech-Language Pathology (SLP.D.) or a Ph.D. in Communication Disorders. These advanced degrees can open doors to leadership roles in academia, research, or specialized clinical practice, allowing you to further contribute to the field and enhance your career prospects.

Choosing ASU for your graduate studies means investing in a future filled with opportunities to make a difference. If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to reach out!