MA Communication Sciences and Disorders

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Houston

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Houston prepares students for professional careers in speech-language pathology through advanced academic coursework, research and supervised clinical training. The programme is suitable for students who want to help children and adults with speech, language, cognitive, hearing and swallowing disorders while developing the clinical expertise needed to assess communication difficulties and provide effective treatment across healthcare, educational and rehabilitation settings.

Curriculum Structure

The programme combines academic coursework, clinical assignments and supervised professional experience. Full-time students typically complete the degree in two years (five to six semesters), while part-time students generally take three years (seven semesters).

First Year – Foundations of Communication Disorders and Clinical Practice

Students develop a strong understanding of the causes, characteristics, assessment and treatment of communication disorders across different age groups. Coursework covers areas such as speech and language development, phonetics, speech science, anatomy and physiology, audiology and communication disorders. Students also begin supervised clinical assignments, applying their academic knowledge to assessment and intervention activities.

Second Year – Advanced Clinical Training and Professional Practice

Students advance their clinical knowledge through specialised studies in areas such as acquired language disorders, cognitive communication disorders, voice disorders, swallowing disorders and motor speech disorders. They complete advanced clinical assignments and external placements, gaining experience in professional healthcare and educational environments while strengthening their ability to evaluate clients and develop appropriate treatment plans.

The degree requires 49 academic credit hours, comprising 31 credits of required coursework, three elective credits and 15 credits of clinical assignments. Full-time students must complete their final clinical externship placements during the second summer and final two semesters.

Focus Areas

Speech-Language Pathology, Communication Disorders, Speech and Language Development, Phonetics, Speech Science, Audiology, Voice Disorders, Motor Speech Disorders, Acquired Language Disorders, Cognitive Communication Disorders, Swallowing Disorders, Clinical Assessment, Clinical Intervention, Bilingual Communication and Evidence-Based Clinical Practice.

Learning Outcomes

Develop the ability to assess and diagnose speech, language and communication disorders, understand the causes and characteristics of communication difficulties, design evidence-based treatment plans, support children and adults with communication challenges, apply clinical assessment and intervention techniques, understand cognitive and swallowing disorders, work with diverse populations, interpret research findings and demonstrate professional competence through supervised clinical experience.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The programme is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). This accreditation confirms that the programme meets recognised academic and clinical training standards for preparing professional speech-language pathologists. Graduates can pursue the academic and clinical requirements for the ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP), subject to meeting all certification requirements.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Houston's Communication Sciences and Disorders graduate programme is ranked 39th nationally in the US News and World Report graduate programme rankings, according to the department's official website. Its graduate outcomes are also strong: 99% of MA graduates passed the Praxis examination on their first attempt over the reported three-year period, while the average on-time completion rate was 87%. Historically, more than 90% of graduates have secured employment in speech-language pathology positions within nine months of graduation.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Houston, the MA in Communication Sciences and Disorders program is designed to provide students with hands-on experiences that are essential for developing practical skills 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 MA Communication Sciences and Disorders program:

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

- Research Laboratories: The program features dedicated research labs equipped with advanced technology for studying speech, language, and hearing disorders, allowing students to participate in cutting-edge research projects.

- Internships: Students have the opportunity to complete internships in diverse settings, including schools, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers, providing valuable real-world experience.

- Collaborative Projects: Group projects are a significant part of the curriculum, encouraging teamwork and communication skills essential for future professionals in the field.

- Digital Tools: Students utilize specialized software for speech analysis and therapy, enhancing their technical skills and understanding of modern practices in communication sciences.

- Field Trips: The program includes field trips to various healthcare and educational facilities, giving students insight into different environments where they may work after graduation.

- Access to Libraries and Resources: The university's extensive libraries and online resources support students' research and learning needs, ensuring they have access to the latest literature and studies in the field.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enrich the academic experience but also equip students with the skills and confidence needed to excel in their careers.

Consider applying to the MA Communication Sciences and Disorders program at the University of Houston to take advantage of these incredible opportunities!

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MA in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Houston prepares graduates for a rewarding career in speech-language pathology and related fields. With a strong emphasis on clinical practice and research, students can expect to find themselves in roles such as Speech-Language Pathologist, Clinical Supervisor, or Research Coordinator. The program equips you with the skills and knowledge necessary to make a significant impact in the lives of individuals with communication disorders.

Here’s what you can look forward to in terms of progression and future opportunities:

- University Services: The Career Services Center offers personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and interview preparation to help you secure internships and job placements. Additionally, the Speech, Language, and Hearing Clinic provides hands-on experience working with clients under the supervision of licensed professionals.

- 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 in Texas is approximately $80,000, reflecting the demand for qualified professionals in this field.

- University–Industry Partnerships: The University of Houston has established partnerships with local healthcare facilities, schools, and rehabilitation centers, providing students with valuable networking opportunities and real-world experience through internships and collaborative projects.

- Long-Term Accreditation Value: The 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, which is crucial for licensure and certification.

- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates of the program have a high employment rate, with many securing positions within six months of graduation. Alumni have gone on to work in diverse settings, including schools, hospitals, and private practices.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your MA in Communication Sciences and Disorders, you may choose to pursue a Doctorate in Speech-Language Pathology (SLP.D.) or a Ph.D. in Communication Sciences and 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.

The University of Houston is committed to your success, and the MA in Communication Sciences and Disorders is a fantastic step toward a fulfilling career. I encourage you to apply and take the next step in your academic journey!