Miami University

What you'll study

The programme combines coursework, supervised clinical practicum and applied research to build competency in assessment, intervention and professional practice. Core areas typically include anatomy and physiology of speech, hearing and swallowing; phonetics and speech sound disorders; language development and language disorders in children; adult neurogenic disorders such as aphasia and motor speech disorders; voice and resonance disorders; fluency disorders; dysphagia (swallowing disorders); and basic audiology. Students also study research methods and statistics, evidence-based practice, ethics and professional issues, multicultural and lifespan considerations, and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC).

Clinical education is embedded throughout the programme. Students complete progressive, supervised practicum in the university speech‑language clinic and in community settings (schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centres, early intervention programmes), gaining hands-on experience with assessment, intervention planning, family consultation and interprofessional collaboration. Many programmes include a capstone project or thesis option to demonstrate applied research skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree and to have completed prerequisite coursework in communication or related disciplines (for example: introduction to communication sciences and disorders, phonetics, anatomy/physiology of speech and hearing, developmental psychology). A competitive undergraduate GPA is important. Typical application materials include transcripts, a personal statement outlining clinical and professional goals, academic and/or professional references, and a CV or résumé.

Additional requirements often include an interview and documentation of the ability to meet clinical practicum obligations (background checks, immunisations and clearance where required). Some candidates enter from allied fields (education, psychology, linguistics, biology) and may be asked to take specified prerequisite courses before or during the programme. GRE requirements vary by cohort; check the programme admissions page for the current policy.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for clinical careers as speech–language pathologists working with children and adults. Common settings include public and private schools, hospitals and health systems, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centres, home‑based or early intervention services, and private practice. Graduates may also pursue roles in research, policy, programme coordination, clinical education or continue to doctoral study.

The programme prepares students to meet the academic and clinical hour requirements needed for professional certification and state licensure pathways (for example, the clinical certification route common in many countries). Career progression often includes clinical fellowship, specialist roles (e.g. paediatric feeding, neurorehabilitation, voice clinics), supervisory positions and interdisciplinary team leadership.

Why study at Miami University

Miami University offers a programme that emphasises small-cohort teaching, close faculty mentorship and a strong clinical education component. Students benefit from hands-on practicum in the on-campus speech and hearing clinic as well as placements across partnered community organisations, enabling exposure to diverse client groups and service models. Faculty members are active clinicians and researchers, supporting evidence-based practice and opportunities for applied research or quality-improvement projects.

The programme fosters interprofessional collaboration with allied health and education departments, preparing graduates to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams. Dedicated advising and career services help students plan clinical fellowship steps and transition into licensure or employment pathways. Overall, the curriculum balances rigorous academic content with practical clinical experience to prepare graduates for professional practice in communication disorders.