University of Miami

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational science, clinical assessment and intervention, and applied research. Core topics typically include anatomy and physiology of the speech and hearing mechanisms, phonetics, speech and language development, disorders of language across the lifespan, fluency and voice disorders, motor speech disorders, dysphagia (swallowing disorders), hearing and aural rehabilitation, and evidence‑based assessment and intervention techniques.

Students complete advanced coursework in research methods and statistics, professional issues and ethics, and practicum seminar courses that support clinical decision‑making. The curriculum integrates progressive, supervised clinical practica across on‑campus and community settings, culminating in advanced externship experiences. Depending on pathway options, students may undertake a research project or capstone that applies clinical research to practice.

Entry requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Applicants with an undergraduate degree in communication sciences and disorders are preferred, but students with related backgrounds (e.g. linguistics, psychology, education, hearing science, biology) who have completed prerequisite coursework may be considered.
• Prerequisite coursework commonly expected includes anatomy/physiology of speech and hearing, phonetics, language development, and basic statistics. Applicants who lack specific prerequisites are usually advised to complete them prior to enrolment.
• Demonstrated academic readiness, typically shown by transcripts with a competitive GPA. Specific GPA expectations and any standardised test requirements vary by admissions cycle; refer to the programme for current guidance.
• Application materials generally include a personal statement describing professional goals, letters of recommendation (academic and/or professional), a current CV or résumé, and official transcripts. Some applicants may be invited to an interview.
• Relevant observation or volunteer experience with individuals who have communication or swallowing disorders is advantageous and can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for clinical roles in a range of settings: public schools, hospitals and medical centres, outpatient rehabilitation clinics, early intervention and paediatric centres, private practice, and long‑term care facilities. Many alumni also work in specialised rehabilitation units, oncology and trauma centres, and community health programmes.

With completion of required clinical hours and any jurisdictional licensing or certification processes, graduates commonly pursue careers as speech‑language pathologists. Others move into related roles in programme coordination, clinical research, higher education (with further graduate study), telepractice, or policy and advocacy organisations focused on communication disorders and accessibility. The programme’s clinical and research training also supports progression to doctoral study.

Why study at University of Miami

• Comprehensive clinical training: Students gain supervised practicum experience in the university’s clinical services and through community partnerships, encountering a broad range of ages and disorders.
• Multidisciplinary environment: The programme sits within a larger health and education ecosystem, enabling collaboration with faculty and clinicians across allied health disciplines and opportunities for interdisciplinary learning.
• Research and faculty expertise: Faculty are active in clinical research and translational projects, offering mentorship for students interested in evidence‑based practice and applied research.
• Diverse client population: Located in a multicultural and multilingual region, the programme provides exposure to bilingual and culturally diverse caseloads, an important asset for clinical competence in contemporary practice.
• Professional preparation: The curriculum emphasises current clinical standards, professional communication, and practicum supervision designed to prepare graduates for credentialing and licensure processes where applicable.