University of Northern Colorado

What you'll study

The programme combines core coursework in communication sciences with applied training across the lifespan. Typical modules and topics include:

• Foundations of Speech‑Language Pathology: phonetics, normal communication development, anatomy and physiology of speech and hearing.
• Communication Disorders: assessment and intervention for pediatric and adult language disorders, articulation and phonological disorders, fluency disorders, voice disorders and motor speech disorders.
• Swallowing Disorders (Dysphagia): swallowing physiology, evaluation and management across settings.
• Audiology and Hearing Rehabilitation: basic audiologic principles and hearing conservation as they relate to communication care.
• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC): assessment, technology and intervention planning for individuals with complex communication needs.
• Neurogenic Communication Disorders: acquired language and cognitive‑communication disorders following brain injury, stroke or neurodegenerative disease.
• Research Methods and Evidence‑Based Practice: study design, statistics, critical appraisal and application of research to clinical decision making.
• Professional Issues and Ethics: clinical governance, multicultural competence, documentation, legal and ethical responsibilities.

Students complete multiple semesters of supervised clinical practicum in UNC’s on‑campus clinic and affiliated community placements, gaining direct client contact across age groups and disorders. The programme typically includes a culminating experience such as a research project, clinical comprehensive examination, or an advanced clinical internship.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. While many applicants have undergraduate study in communication sciences and disorders, graduates from related disciplines are considered if they have completed prerequisite coursework such as phonetics, anatomy/physiology of speech and hearing, language development, and introductory communication disorders.

Typical application components include:

• Official transcripts demonstrating satisfactory academic performance (a competitive GPA is usually expected).
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• A personal statement or statement of purpose outlining professional goals and relevant experience.
• A current résumé or curriculum vitae.
• Some clinical programmes also require an interview, proof of relevant volunteer or work experience, and compliance with health and background‑check requirements for clinical placements.

Applicants should check the programme’s admissions page or contact the department for specific prerequisite lists, documentation requirements and any standardized testing policies.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for clinical roles and related positions in a variety of settings. Common career paths include:

• Speech‑language pathologist in schools, early intervention programmes, hospitals, rehabilitation centres and long‑term care facilities.
• Clinician in outpatient or private‑practice settings, including telepractice delivery.
• Specialist roles in swallowing clinics, paediatric communication teams, cochlear implant programmes or AAC services.
• Educational and administrative positions such as clinical supervisor, programme coordinator or school district specialist.
• Further academic or research training at the doctoral level, or roles in research, policy, product development and training within healthcare and education sectors.

The curriculum is designed to meet the academic requirements for professional certification and licensure pathways; graduates should consult national and state/provincial regulatory bodies for specific clinical certification or licensing procedures.

Why study at University of Northern Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado offers an applied, clinically focused master’s with access to a campus speech‑language‑hearing clinic and partnerships with local schools, hospitals and community agencies, enabling diverse practicum placements. Students benefit from faculty who blend clinical expertise with active research and mentorship, relatively small cohort sizes for close supervision, and opportunities to specialise through electives and research projects.

Located in Colorado, the programme provides clinical experiences serving urban and rural populations, supporting development of culturally responsive practice. Prospective students should contact the department for details on faculty research areas, clinical placement processes and how the programme supports students toward certification and licensure.