Communication Disorders M.S.

Major in Communication Disorders

M.S. Degree Requirements

(See requirements in the “Graduate Catalog”.)

The WTAMU Communication Disorders Program is nationally accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association (ASHA).

The primary goal of the master’s degree program in communication disorders is to develop competent professional practitioners who are prepared to work with other disciplines and make contributions to the field of speech-language pathology and who are well grounded in diagnostic and therapeutic skills. Knowledge of and participation in research is strongly encouraged.

Length of the program may vary depending on the undergraduate background of the student; the master’s degree in communication disorders is available with a thesis or non-thesis option. In addition, enrollment in clinical practicum each semester is required in order to achieve a total of 400 clinic clock hours.

Admission Requirements

Prospective students will apply to the graduate school and master’s program via the Communication Sciences and Disorders Centralized Application System (CSDCAS). A complete application for consideration requires the following:

Official GRE scores.
Official GRE scores must be sent directly to WTAMU from ETS. The GRE school code for WTAMU is 6938.
WTAMU will utilize the writing score (1-6) for the scoring rubric.
A statement of purpose of no more than 500 words uploaded in the CSDCAS application.
Three letters of professional recommendation uploaded in the CSDCAS application.
Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions uploaded in the CSDCAS application.
Undergraduate GPA of 3.2 in the last 60 hours of coursework completed, including Communication Disorders coursework.

The application deadline is January 15 (must have completed application and all materials uploaded). Late materials will not be reviewed, so allow for mailing time. An applicant must have a 3.2 minimum GPA. Note: GPA is calculated from the last 60 hours of communication disorders and related coursework completed (to include, but not limited to sign language, chemistry/physics and statistics). If you are currently leveling, your last 60 hours will be considered. Official transcripts are required, and your GPA will be calculated upon receipt of all transcripts. Interviews may be used for the admission process; however, not all applicants will be interviewed. Interviews will be determined based on the admissions rubric.

Ongoing Program Requirements

Documentation required within the first two weeks of classes:

Documented copy of liability insurance.
Evidence of a current CPR card.
Immunizations: Required-tuberculosis; Strongly recommended-rubella (women only) and hepatitis B.
Courses with grades of “C,” “D,” “F,” “I” (incomplete), “IP” or “X” (drop or withdrawal) cannot be used to satisfy requirements for graduate degree.
Certified background check.

Completion/Graduation Requirements

Take the Praxis NESPA specialty area exam. (ASHA examination; 162 or better is passing.)
Students must demonstrate mastery of all learning outcomes that are part of the Knowledge and Skills Acquisition (KASA). The KASA learning outcomes are incorporated into and listed on the syllabi of each graduate course in communication disorders. This requirement helps meet standards of the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
Students are required to pass a comprehensive final exam.

Thesis and Non-Thesis Options

The master of science degree in communication disorders includes two options.

Thesis Option (62 hours)*

CD 6301 - Thesis 3
CD 6302 - Thesis 3
CD 6305 - Neuromotor Speech Disorders 3
CD 6315 - Research in Communication Disorders 3
CD 6320 - Language Disorders in Children: Birth to 5 3
CD 6325 - Augmentative and Alternative Communication 3
CD 6330 - Aphasia and Right Hemisphere Syndrome 3
CD 6335 - Fluency Disorders 3
CD 6340 - Communication Disorders Related to Dementia and Head Injury 3
CD 6370 - Pediatric Speech Sound Disorders 3
CD 6375 - Language Disorders in School-Age Children 3
CD 6380 - Advanced Evidence-Based Practice in Communication Disorders 3
CD 6398 - Application of Clinical Principles 3 * (taken three times to satisfy 400 clinical clock hours)
CD 6399 - Advanced Application of Clinical Principles 3 (to satisfy 400 clinical clock hours)
CD 6410 - Voice Disorders and Rehabilitation 4
CD 6450 - Dysphagia 4
CD 6699 - Advanced Application of Clinical Principles II 6

Non-Thesis Option (56 hours)*

CD 6305 - Neuromotor Speech Disorders 3
CD 6315 - Research in Communication Disorders 3
CD 6320 - Language Disorders in Children: Birth to 5 3
CD 6325 - Augmentative and Alternative Communication 3
CD 6330 - Aphasia and Right Hemisphere Syndrome 3
CD 6335 - Fluency Disorders 3
CD 6340 - Communication Disorders Related to Dementia and Head Injury 3
CD 6370 - Pediatric Speech Sound Disorders 3
CD 6375 - Language Disorders in School-Age Children 3
CD 6380 - Advanced Evidence-Based Practice in Communication Disorders 3
CD 6398 - Application of Clinical Principles 3 * (taken three times to satisfy 400 clinical clock hours)
CD 6399 - Advanced Application of Clinical Principles 3 (to satisfy 400 clinical clock hours)
CD 6410 - Voice Disorders and Rehabilitation 4
CD 6450 - Dysphagia 4
CD 6699 - Advanced Application of Clinical Principles II 6

Note:

*Additional hours may be required to meet ASHA requirements.