Cost & earnings at University of Nebraska Kearney What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
Communications graduates earn a median $45,715 Across 325 US programmes, two years after finishing
See the degree grade →The Master of Science in Communication Disorders Sciences and Services at the University of Nebraska at Kearney is a clinically focused graduate programme that prepares students for careers as speech‑language pathologists. It suits applicants who have completed prerequisite coursework in communication sciences and who want a balance of academic study, supervised clinical practicum and preparation for professional certification and licensure.
The programme combines core academic coursework with extensive supervised clinical practicum. Core topics typically include anatomy and physiology of the speech and hearing mechanism, phonetics, speech and language development, assessment and intervention across the lifespan, fluency, voice and resonance disorders, motor speech disorders, neurogenic communication disorders (including aphasia and traumatic brain injury), dysphagia (swallowing disorders), multicultural and bilingual issues in communication disorders, and research methods and statistics.
Students complete a series of clinical practica in the university speech‑language clinic and through community placements in schools, hospitals and rehabilitation settings. The curriculum commonly culminates in a capstone experience such as a research project, comprehensive examination or clinical portfolio that demonstrates readiness for clinical fellowship and professional practice.
Applicants normally need a recognised bachelor's degree and completion of prerequisite undergraduate coursework in areas such as phonetics, introduction to communication disorders, anatomy and physiology of speech and hearing, hearing science/audiology, and child development or language acquisition. Admissions materials generally include official transcripts, a personal statement, and academic or professional references. Candidates should demonstrate relevant experience or interest in working with people with communication disorders, and be prepared to meet standards for clinical training, which may include background checks and health clearances required by practicum sites.
Selection is competitive and based on the overall strength of the application, academic preparation, letters of recommendation and fit with the programme's mission. Applicants are advised to consult the programme admissions office for specific prerequisites and documentation required.
Graduates are prepared to pursue careers as speech‑language pathologists across a range of settings. Common employment destinations include public and private schools, hospitals and acute care, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centres, early intervention programmes, and private practice. Many graduates complete a supervised clinical fellowship year and pursue state licensure and the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC‑SLP) awarded by the American Speech‑Language‑Hearing Association (ASHA).
Other career pathways include roles in programme administration, research assistance, advocacy and policy, special education collaboration, and continuation to doctoral study in related fields such as communication sciences, speech‑language pathology or education.
UNK offers a programme with an emphasis on hands‑on clinical training through its on‑campus speech‑language clinic and partnerships with community practicum sites across Nebraska, giving students a wide range of caseloads and populations. Class sizes and cohort structure support close faculty mentorship and collaborative learning. Faculty members bring clinical and research expertise and supervise practicum experiences to help students meet competencies required for certification and licensure.
The university's location allows students to gain experience in urban and rural practice environments, and the programme stresses culturally responsive practice to serve diverse communities. Prospective students should review UNK's programme webpage and contact the department for details about prerequisites, application materials and clinical requirements.
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