MVNU launches online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

MOUNT VERNON, Ohio — Mount Vernon Nazarene University has launched its Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP), a graduate program featuring fully online coursework and extensive clinical training to prepare the next generation of skilled speech-language pathologists. Offered through MVNU’s College of Adult and Professional Studies, the program prepares students to diagnose and treat a wide range of communication and swallowing disorders.

“There is a critical need for speech-language pathologists, particularly in rural areas,” said Dr. Dawn McKee, CCC-SLP, assistant professor of communication sciences and disorders. “MVNU has a strong undergraduate program, but a master’s degree is required to practice. Previously, our students graduated and had to go elsewhere to earn their master’s degree. Now, they can continue their education at MVNU, complete their graduate training and be prepared to enter the profession.”

As an intentionally Christian university, MVNU integrates faith and professional preparation across its academic programs. The MS-SLP program extends that approach by preparing students to combine clinical expertise with a commitment to serving individuals and families with dignity, compassion and care.

“In addition, with our program being fully online, we can foster the love of Jesus to students throughout the country,” Dr. McKee added. “I personally felt called to create the MS-SLP program because I want to increase clinicians who encompass Christ-like compassion. Ephesians 4:12 was my guiding force, which states ‘to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.’”

The MS-SLP program adheres to the knowledge and skills acquisition standards set forth by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), providing a pathway toward eligibility for the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP). The program is designed for completion in five semesters and includes 54 academic credit hours delivered entirely online, along with 10 practicum courses totaling at least 400 clinical clock hours.

The MS-SLP program offers a distinctive combination of features designed to support student success:

• 100% online coursework, allowing students to balance professional and personal commitments
• Five-semester completion timeline with a cohort-based learning model
• Five clinical practicum placements in schools, pediatric clinics, hospitals, and medical settings, totaling at least 400 supervised clinical hours
• Curriculum aligned with ASHA standards, providing a pathway toward eligibility for the CCC-SLP credential
• Preparation for the Speech-Language Pathology Praxis Exam
• A supportive, intentionally Christian learning environment with experienced faculty

The program’s 18 academic courses span the full spectrum of speech-language pathology, including diagnostic methods, pediatric language disorders, speech sound disorders, dysphagia, medical speech-language pathology, neuroanatomy and neurophysiology, augmentative and alternative communication, fluency, voice and resonance, research and evidence-based practice, and professional skills and competencies.

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Students whose undergraduate degree is not in Communication Sciences and Disorders are welcome to apply upon completion of the required prerequisite coursework. Applications are submitted through the Centralized Application Service for Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSDCAS) and include a personal statement and a minimum of three letters of recommendation.

The Master of Science (M.S.) education program in speech-language pathology {distance education} at Mount Vernon Nazarene University is a candidate for Accreditation by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, 2200 Research Boulevard, #310, Rockville, MD 20850, 800-498-2071 or 301-296-5700. Candidacy is a preaccreditation status with the CAA, awarded to developing or emerging programs for a maximum period of 5 years.

For more information about the MS-SLP program, visit mvnu.edu/msslp or call 1-800-839-2355.