M.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders

As a partnership between UAA and East Carolina University, the Communication Sciences and Disorders MS program* trains students to prevent, diagnose and treat communication and swallowing disorders in individuals across the lifespan. In addition to core courses, electives allow you to focus on a specialized area according to your interests and career goals. You’ll also get real-world clinical experience in your home community and at the UAA Summer Speech-Language Clinic, which serves members of the community and enables you to practice in a supervised, supportive environment. 

  • Admission Requirements
    • A bachelor's degree from an accredited university
    • An overall GPA of 3.0 or higher
    • Completed prerequisite courses with an average GPA of 3.2 or higher
    • Completed 25 hours of observation of speech-language pathology or audiology sessions
    • 30th percentile of higher scores in all sections of the GRE
  • Application Requirements

    Note: Admission to the CSD M.S. program is competitive. Successful program candidates demonstrate high academic achievement, personal and professional initiative, and excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills. 

    Before applying to the program, applicants must complete specific prerequisite courses covering topics in speech-language pathology, biological and physical sciences, and behavioral and social sciences. This can be done either through an undergraduate degree or a post-baccalaureate certificate in speech-language pathology.

  • Student Learning Outcomes

    As a graduate of the program, you’ll be eligible to apply for a clinical fellowship, which qualifies you for the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). As a certified speech-language pathologist or audiologist, you’ll be able to practice in a wide of settings, including: 

    • Hospitals 
    • Schools 
    • Rehabilitation centers 
    • Private practices

*Note: There are opportunities for staying in Alaska while completing online graduate programs at multiple universities. Please contact SLP Program Director Karen Gallagher for more information.