Chapman University

What you'll study

This master’s programme combines core coursework in communication sciences with practicum-based clinical training. Typical modules include anatomy and physiology of the speech and hearing mechanism, phonetics and phonology, child and adult language disorders, voice and resonance disorders, motor speech disorders, fluency disorders, swallowing disorders (dysphagia), and foundations of audiology. Students also study assessment and differential diagnosis, evidence‑based intervention methods, multicultural considerations in service delivery, research methods and statistics, and professional ethics and practice management.

Clinical education is a central component: students complete supervised practicum hours in Chapman’s campus speech and language clinic as well as in affiliated community placements such as schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centres and early intervention programmes. Coursework and clinical experiences are designed to develop diagnostic skills, treatment planning, outcome measurement and interprofessional collaboration.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Typical prerequisites include undergraduate coursework in communication sciences and disorders or related subjects; anatomy/physiology of the speech and hearing mechanism; and statistics. If direct prerequisites are missing, many programmes will accept applicants who complete specified undergraduate bridging courses.

Selection is competitive and usually based on academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement describing professional goals and relevant experience, and an interview. Some applicants may be required to demonstrate supervised volunteer or paid experience working with children or adults with communication needs. Health and background clearances, up‑to‑date immunisations and basic life‑support certification may be required before beginning clinical placements.

Career prospects

Graduates typically pursue careers as speech‑language pathologists working in settings such as public and private schools, hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centres, early intervention programmes and private practice. Other pathways include roles in research, clinical coordination, programme administration, assistive technology and telepractice services. The programme provides the academic foundation and clinical experience sought by employers; graduates who meet professional certification and state licensure requirements may practise clinically.

Why study at Chapman University

Chapman offers a programme with a strong emphasis on supervised clinical training within a liberal arts university environment. Students benefit from on‑campus clinic facilities and community partnerships that provide diverse practicum placements across paediatric and adult populations. Small cohort sizes support close mentorship from faculty with clinical and research expertise, and interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities exist with allied departments.

The university’s location within a large metropolitan region provides access to a wide spectrum of clinical settings and community organisations, supporting varied hands‑on experience. Professional development activities, speaker series and networking opportunities help students prepare for careers in clinical practice, research and service delivery in the field of communication disorders.