Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Carly Jo Hosbach-Cannon, Associate Professor, Graduate Chairperson

Lynne Hewitt, Professor, Program Director

Lauren Wright-Jones, Clinical Assistant Professor, Graduate Chairperson, Online Modality

The master’s of science program in speech-language pathology at Ithaca College is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, 2200 Research Boulevard #310, Rockville, Maryland 20850, 800-498-2071 or 301-296-5700.

The department offers two graduate majors: Speech-Language Pathology, M.S., and Speech-Language Pathology with Teacher Certification, M.S.. The graduate program in Speech-Language Pathology, M.S. is offered in two modalities; full-time in person, and part-time fully online. The in-person degree options require full-time study; for both, degree requirements must be completed within two years. For the on-line modality M.S. in SLP, the degree can be completed in 8 semesters (2.7 years) without prerequisite courses or 11 semesters (3.7 years) with prerequisite courses.

In order to meet ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) requirements, all 25 observation hours and 375 clinical clock hours must be completed according to ASHA standards and under the supervision of an individual who currently holds the ASHA CCC’s and has completed the necessary supervision training (in accordance with the ASHA 2020 Standards).

Speech-Language Pathology, M.S.

This major prepares students to:

Meet academic and clinical requirements for ASHA’s CCC’s in speech-language pathology (CCC-SLP);
Meet New York State licensure requirements.
Successfully complete the requirements for the clinical fellowship and Praxis examination

Speech-Language Pathology with Teacher Certification, M.S.

Students who complete this major meet all of the requirements for the speech-language pathology major, and also meet the academic and clinical New York State Education Department (NYSED) requirements for the initial certificate in Teaching Students with Speech and Language Disabilities (TSSLD), which is required when working with pre-K to 12th grade students.

This major prepares students to:

Meet academic and clinical requirements for the New York State initial teaching certificate in speech-language pathology;
Meet academic and clinical requirements for ASHA’s CCC’s in speech-language pathology (CCC-SLP);
Meet New York State licensure requirements;
Successfully complete the requirements for the clinical fellowship and Praxis examination

See American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
See New York State Licensure Requirements

Admission

Consideration for admission to the graduate (in-person and online) program requires the following:

An undergraduate degree; and
A minimum cumulative undergraduate grade point average of 3.00 (on a 4.00 grading system)

Applicants from undergraduate programs in communication disorders, as well as those whose baccalaureate degree is not in speech-language pathology, are encouraged to review information about prerequisite courses prior to applying. In most cases the expectation is that students complete all the prerequisites prior to enrolling. However, with permission of the graduate chair, up to two prerequisite courses may be completed during the program. For students without an undergraduate degree in speech-language pathology, all remaining prerequisite courses in SLP must be completed with a B or better; all prerequisite courses in communication disorders must be taken for a grade. During the admission process, the undergraduate work of all applicants will be evaluated to determine what undergraduate courses, if any, must be completed before accepted applicants are able to enroll in graduate level courses. A list of prerequisite courses is located on the department's website. All prerequisite course work must be completed within the last 10 years.

For part-time M.S. in SLP degree students lacking a background in communication disorders, there is the option of being admitted to our leveling program. Students admitted to the leveling program will complete all required prerequisites in communication disorders at Ithaca College. They must earn a B or better in all undergraduate prerequisite coursework in communication disorders. Note that all students must complete statistics, biology, physics or chemistry, and psychology prerequisites prior to enrolling. For these courses, a passing grade is acceptable (B or better only applies to communication disorders courses).

Application for Admission

All application materials must be submitted by March 1 for fall admission. Please visit the department's website for instructions on the application process.

Graduate Assistantships

Each year the department awards several graduate assistantships and scholarships in the full-time in-person program. Applicants wishing to be considered for a graduate assistantship must submit their application for admission into the in-person program by February 1. Please visit the department's website for further information.

Tuition Expenses

For information regarding graduate tuition for the speech-language pathology programs please see the Office of Admission.

Majors

SLPG 54700 Fluency Development and Disorders (NLA)

Comprehensive study of the nature and development of fluency and fluency disorders. Identify and apply knowledge in the following areas: (1) development of normal speech fluency, (2) onset and development of fluency disorders, (3) exploration of stuttering theories and current research, and (4) examination of diagnostic and therapeutic intervention programs for preschoolers, school-age children, and adults. (F,S,U,Y)
Attributes: TE
2 Credits

SLPG 55300 Voice and Related Disorders (NLA)

Study of normal and disordered phonatory processes; including upper airway disorders; apply knowledge in evaluation and remediation of specific voice problems across the lifespan. (F,S,U,Y)
3 Credits

SLPG 55500 Adult Dysarthria (NLA)

Preparation for diagnosis and treatment of dysarthria. Identify and apply knowledge in neuroanatomy and physiology of speech production, etiology of dysarthria, differential diagnosis based on dysarthria characteristics, and treatment using a biopsychosocial model. (F,S,U,Y)
2 Credits

SLPG 55600 Acquired Cognitive Communication Disorders (NLA)

Preparation for diagnosis and treatment of acquired cognitive communication disorders, including: right hemisphere disorder; traumatic brain injury; normal aging; mild cognitive impairment; dementia. Identify and apply knowledge in neuroanatomy, theoretical models of cognition and memory, etiology of acquired cognitive communication disorders, their characteristics, and diagnosis and treatment using a biopsychosocial model. (F,S,U,Y)
2 Credits

SLPG 55900 Speech Sound Disorders in Children (NLA)

Study of disordered speech sound production in children. Identify and apply knowledge in: typical speech sound acquisition; articulation; phonology; relationships between speech sound disorders and literacy; cultural-linguistic variations in speech production; characteristics of speech sound disorders across different clinical populations. Evaluate approaches to assessment and treatment using best practices in clinical decision-making. (F,S,U,Y)
Attributes: TE
3 Credits

SLPG 61000 Early Intervention for Children with Communication Disorders (NLA)

Outline the development of normal and disordered communication in children from birth to 3 years of age. Summarize important legislation and service delivery models used in early intervention. Describe assessment and intervention methods used with children under the age of 3. (F,S,U,Y)
Attributes: TE
2 Credits

SLPG 62000 Speech-Language Pathology in Educational Settings (NLA)

Recognize roles and responsibilities of the SLP in educational settings. Identify and apply knowledge of: legislative foundations including IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), and Safe Schools Legislation; professional certification and ethics; Individual Educational Program development; implementation of culturally sensitive therapeutic programs in a diverse classroom setting; RTI (Response to Intervention); and specific disability areas such as learning disabilities. (F,S,U,Y)
Attributes: TE
2 Credits

SLPG 62100 Autism Spectrum Disorders (NLA)

Identify and apply knowledge in autism spectrum disorders (ASD): definitions and characteristics, etiology and prevalence, evidence-based supports, and the speech-language pathologist's roles and responsibilities in assessment and intervention for ASD. (F,S,U,Y)
1 Credit

SLPG 62200 Counseling in Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) (NLA)

Engage in discussion, reflection, and collaborative exercises around the roles and responsibilities of the speech-language pathologist (SLP) in counseling individuals with communication and swallowing disorders and providing support and education to their families/caregivers. Apply counseling techniques and integrate approaches. Describe essential aspects of interprofessional teams in counseling. (F,U,S,Y)
1 Credit

SLPG 62500 Medical Topics in Speech-Language Pathology (NLA)

Apply interdisciplinary focus to characteristics, assessment, and management of special populations frequently encountered in medical settings; evaluate evidence-based techniques, materials, and programs; identify key elements of interprofessional practice in medical settings. (F,S,U,Y)
2 Credits

SLPG 63100 Pediatric Motor Speech Disorders (NLA)

Apply knowledge of etiology and characteristics of pediatric motor speech disorders to identifying evidence-based interventions. (F,U,S,Y)
1 Credit

SLPG 63300 Cultural Competence in Speech-Language Pathology Clinical Practice (NLA)

Summarize cultural competence across the full range of dimensions of diversity and clinical practice in speech-language pathology, including considerations of linguistic and cultural variation in communication and its impact on service delivery. (F,S,U,Y)
1 Credit

SLPG 64000 Audiology and Assistive Technology/Listening Devices (NLA)

Identify psychosocial, educational, vocational, and linguistic effects of hearing loss, including the normal and disordered auditory system; interpretation of test results; listening devices and assistive technology for treatment of auditory disorders; and troubleshooting equipment. Emphasis on the role and scope of practice of the speech-language pathologist in screening for and treating hearing disorders through technology. (F,S,U,Y)
2 Credits

SLPG 64100 Facilitating Spoken-Language Learning in Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Children (NLA)

Identify and apply knowledge in facilitating spoken-language learning in deaf and hard-of-hearing children using the auditory-verbal approach. Apply auditory-verbal philosophy to maximizing hearing and facilitating listening, language, and literacy in deaf and hard-of-hearing children. Identify key elements in family-centered practice for this population. Prerequisites: SLPG 64000. (F,S,U,Y)
1 Credit

SLPG 64900 Augmentative and Alternative Communication (NLA)

Identify and apply knowledge in supporting individuals with complex communication needs using augmentative and alternative communication techniques and strategies. Hands-on experience with augmentative communication devices and related equipment. (F,S,U,Y)
Attributes: TE
3 Credits

SLPG 65100 Adult Aphasia and Related Disorders (NLA)

Identify, differentiate, and contrast the phenomenology, symptomatology, and diagnostic and therapeutic processes of adult aphasia, apraxia of speech, and related disorders. (F,S,U,Y)
3 Credits

SLPG 65200 Language Disorders in Children Ages 3 to 21 (NLA)

Identify typical language development and apply concepts to disordered communication in children from 3 to 21 years. Identify and evaluate theories, apply evidence-based practices to case examples, including considerations of: legislation; service delivery models; culturally responsive practice; assessment and psychometrics; interventions/supports; needs of special populations; impact of language on literacy. (F,S,U,Y)
Attributes: TE
3 Credits

SLPG 65500-65507 Seminar in Speech Pathology: Selected Topics (NLA)

Explore various topics in speech-language pathology and audiology (SLPA) as determined by course instructors and the department of SLPA. Offered on an irregular basis. (IRR)
1-6 Credits

SLPG 65600 Dysphagia (NLA)

Identify and analyze the nature, etiology, and physiology of normal and abnormal patterns of swallowing across the lifespan. Instrumental techniques for the study of swallowing and procedures for clinical swallowing evaluations. Identify best practices in dysphagia treatment, ethics, and clinical decision-making. (F,S,Y,U)
3 Credits

SLPG 65700 Research Methods and Analysis (NLA)

Demonstrate knowledge in study designs and analysis in communication sciences and disorders research; critically evaluate research, applying levels of evidence and comparing evidence for interventions; articulate evidence-based position in oral and written formats. (F,S,Y,U)
3 Credits

SLPG 66100 Clinical Practicum I (NLA)

Engage in a dynamic supervised clinical practice experience. Apply classroom learning to the practicum setting. Demonstrate professional skills, develop and implement an intervention plan, create a motivating therapeutic environment, collaborate with relevant others, and complete thorough documentation. Practica may take place on or off campus. Supervision is provided in accordance with ASHA requirements. (F,S,U,Y)
Attributes: TE
1 Credit

SLPG 66101 Seminar in Professional Practice I (NLA)

Identify and apply basic concepts in professional practice in speech-language pathology, including: scope of practice, evidence-based practice, standards of ethical conduct, trends in professional practice, accreditation, certification, and licensure, graduate program standards, requirements, and expectations. Co-requisite: SLPG 66100. (F,S,U,Y)
1 Credit

SLPG 66200 Clinical Practicum II (NLA)

Engage in multiple supervised clinical practice experiences. Provide diagnostic evaluations and therapeutic intervention for individuals with a variety of speech-language disorders across the lifespan. Demonstrate professional skills. Develop and implement an intervention plan, create a dynamic therapeutic environment, collaborate with relevant others, and complete thorough documentation. Site and client assignments are determined by clock-hour needs, scope of practice, and regulatory requirements. Practica will take place in a variety of settings both on or off campus. Supervision is provided in accordance with ASHA requirements. Mandatory seminars on selected topics are held throughout the semester. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Prerequisites: SLPG 66100. (F,U,S,Y)
Attributes: TE
2 Credits

SLPG 66300 Clinical Practicum III (NLA)

Engage in multiple supervised clinical practice experiences. Provide diagnostic evaluations and therapeutic intervention for individuals with a variety of speech-language disorders across the lifespan. Demonstrate professional skills. Develop and implement an intervention plan, create a dynamic therapeutic environment, collaborate with relevant others, and complete thorough documentation. Site and client assignments are determined by clock-hour needs, scope of practice, and regulatory requirements. Practica will take place take place in a variety of settings both on or off campus. Supervision is provided in accordance with ASHA requirements. Mandatory seminars on selected topics are held throughout the semester. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Prerequisite: SLPG 66200. (F,S,U,Y)
Attributes: TE
1 Credit

SLPG 66400 Clinical Practicum IV (NLA)

Engage in multiple supervised clinical practice experiences. Provide diagnostic evaluations and therapeutic intervention for individuals with a variety of speech-language disorders across the lifespan. Demonstrate professional skills. Develop and implement an intervention plan, create a dynamic therapeutic environment, collaborate with relevant others, and complete thorough documentation. Site and client assignments are determined by clock-hour needs, scope of practice, and regulatory requirements. Practica will take place take place in a variety of settings both on or off campus. Supervision is provided in accordance with ASHA requirements. Mandatory seminars on selected topics are held throughout the semester. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Prerequisite: SLPG 66300. Co-requisite: SLPG 66401. (F,S,U,Y)
Attributes: TE
2 Credits

SLPG 66401 Seminar in Professional Practice II (NLA)

Professional practice in speech-language pathology for individuals in their final semester prior to externship/student teaching. Identify and apply information in ASHA practice policies and guidelines, reimbursement procedures, counseling in SLP, evidence-based practice, trends in professional practice, and advanced topics in certification and licensure. Discuss externship/student teaching standards, requirements, and expectations. Co-requisite SLPG 66400. (F,U,S,Y)
1 Credit

SLPG 66500-66501 Professional Externship in Speech-Language Pathology (NLA)

Engage in a full-time professional externship experience in speech-language pathology. Externship settings and locations are determined in accordance with regulatory requirements, scope of practice needs, and professional interests. Specific requirements, duties, and responsibilities vary with the placement site. Faculty approval required. Prerequisite: SLPG 66400. (F,S,Y,U)
Attributes: TE
4 Credits

SLPG 66600 Supplementary Clinical Affiliation (NLA)

Engage in supervised clinical practicum, to fulfill clinical clock hours required for program completion. (IRR)
1 Credit

SLPG 67000 Individual Studies (NLA)

Individually investigate special topic in communication sciences and disorders; complete critical review. Registration requires submission of approved outline and bibliography. Permission of instructor and department chair. (F,S,U,Y)
1-3 Credits

SLPG 67050 Independent Clinical Study (NLA)

Individual study on clinical topics; analyze key clinical knowledge and skills needed for entry level practitioners in speech-language pathology; develop personal reflection and action plan to achieve learning outcomes for completion of clinical training. Permission of Instructor required. (F,S,U,Y)
1-3 Credits

SLPG 67100 Individual Studies (NLA)

SLPG 67200-67300 Independent Reading (NLA)

Explore key issues and critically evaluate topic in communication disorders and sciences, with approval of department chair. (F,S,U,Y)
1-3 Credits

SLPG 67400-67500 Independent Research (NLA)

Investigate topic in communication disorders and sciences, under faculty guidance. Permission of department chair required. (F,S,U,Y)
Attributes: TE
1-3 Credits

SLPG 68000 Thesis or Research Paper (NLA)

Complete thesis or research paper. See graduate policies for details. May be repeated, up to total of 8 credits. (F,S,U,Y)
2-8 Credits

SLPG 68100 Comprehensive Examinations (NLA)

Demonstrate learning across the curriculum in speech-language pathology by completing comprehensive examinations across the scope of practice. (F,U,S,Y)
0 Credit

SLPG 69800 Professional Experience in Education I (NLA)

Engage in a full-time professional externship/student teaching experience in speech-language pathology in an educational setting. Student teaching settings and locations are determined in accordance with regulatory requirements, scope of practice needs, and professional interests. Specific requirements, duties, and responsibilities vary with the placement site. For SLPTC majors only. Mandatory seminars are held throughout the semester. Faculty approval required. Prerequisite: SLPG 66400. (F,S,U,Y)
Attributes: TE
4 Credits

SLPG 69801 Professional Experience in Education II (NLA)

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