Indiana University

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational science with applied practicum to give a broad understanding of human communication and its disorders. Core topics typically include anatomy and physiology of speech and hearing, phonetics, typical and atypical language development, assessment and intervention for paediatric and adult communication disorders, dysphagia (swallowing disorders), basic audiology, and multicultural issues in service delivery.

Students also take research methods and statistics courses to support evidence-based practice, and participate in supervised clinical practica through the university’s speech and hearing clinic. Options usually include elective seminars or advanced topics such as neurogenic communication disorders, voice disorders, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), geriatric communication, and telepractice. Many graduates complete a capstone project, clinical externship, or thesis depending on the programme pathway chosen.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution. While a degree in communication sciences and disorders is advantageous, candidates with degrees in allied disciplines (such as linguistics, psychology, education, or biology) who have completed prerequisite coursework are also considered. Typical application components include official transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining clinical and research goals, letters of recommendation, and a current CV or résumé.

Programmes may require or recommend GRE scores; applicants should check the specific campus requirements. Prerequisite coursework commonly includes introduction to communication disorders, anatomy/physiology of speech and hearing, phonetics, and basic statistics. Strong interpersonal skills, evidence of relevant experience (volunteering, observation or paid work with communication-impaired populations), and readiness for intensive clinical training are important selection factors.

Career prospects

Graduates of this master’s programme are prepared for clinical careers as speech-language pathologists in a wide range of settings, including public schools, hospital and medical centres, rehabilitation facilities, early intervention programmes, private practice and long-term care. With additional certification or licensure, some graduates work in specialised areas such as paediatric feeding and swallowing, voice clinics, or neurorehabilitation.

Other career paths include clinical coordinator or manager roles, positions in community and governmental health services, roles in industry (for example, augmentative communication technology and educational publishing), and clinical or translational research. Many graduates go on to pursue doctoral study in communication sciences, speech-language pathology, or related fields if they are interested in academic or high-level research careers.

Why study at Indiana University

Indiana University offers a long-established programme with experienced faculty who combine clinical expertise and active research. The university’s on-campus speech and hearing clinic provides students with supervised clinical experience across diverse client populations and age groups, and there are collaborations with local schools, hospitals and community agencies that broaden placement opportunities.

Students benefit from interdisciplinary connections across education, psychology, neuroscience and health sciences, access to research laboratories, and resources for professional development. The programme emphasises evidence-based practice and cultural competence, preparing graduates to meet contemporary standards for clinical certification and state licensure while serving a wide range of communities.