M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology

The 16-month on-campus Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology degree is one of the oldest and most distinguished Baylor University graduate programs with a rich tradition that spans over 50 years. In just four semesters, this accelerated program equips graduates for successful careers as speech-language pathologists.Program TracksThe on-campus SLP program offers three degree tracks: a non-thesis track, a thesis track, and a graduate leveling track.Most students pursue the non-thesis track, which prepares them to become certified speech-language pathologists. Students in the non-thesis track are required to complete 45 semester hours, take the Praxis Exam, and pass the required final comprehensive examination to earn the Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology degree. This accelerated program is equal to four semesters (i.e., terms) and can be completed in approximately 15 months.The thesis-track is designed for students interested in participating in graduate research culminating in a thesis with the ultimate goal of pursuing doctoral study. The thesis track requires the completion of 45 semester hours of the required coursework with an additional 3 semester hours added for the completion of the thesis. Students considering the thesis track should contact the department’s graduate program director to discuss the advantages of pursuing this option.A student who has been accepted into the on-campus SLP graduate program but who does not have an undergraduate degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders or Speech-Language Pathology is considered a graduate student with leveling status. These students are required to complete 24 hours (two semesters) of leveling courses in Baylor’s CSD Department to meet requirements for state licensure and professional certification. After completing the required 24 hours, the student will begin the Standard Graduate Track. On-campus SLP graduate students with leveling status will complete the degree program in 6 semesters (i.e., terms).