Why Study Speech-Language Pathology
As a student in the Masters of Speech-Language Pathology (MSLP) program at Austin
Peay State University (APSU) you will learn how to assess, diagnose and treat communication
and swallowing disorders experienced by individuals across the lifespan. The curriculum
integrates all aspects of
clinical education in the classroom and across practicum experiences that emphasize
evidence-based client-centered care. We are committed to providing APSU graduate student
clinicians with an inter-professional education that will prepare them to excel across
practice settings. APSU MSLP graduates will be eligible to apply for the Certificate
of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association if all
certification requirements are fulfilled satisfactorily. MSLP graduates may also be
eligible for state licensure in Tennessee and Kentucky.
The Master of Speech-Language Pathology (MSLP) residential education program in speech-language
pathology at Austin Peay State 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.
Dr. Kleinhans has extensive experience evaluating and treating neurogenic communication and swallowing disorders. She also conducts research in clinical education to enhance student training. Dr. Ward possesses advanced certification in bilingual speech-language pathology. Her expertise in cultural competence elevates her skills in the evaluation and treatment of bilingual and culturally diverse children who may experience linguistic or academic difficulties. Dr. Bancroft is an expert in evidence-based coaching in early intervention. Her research focus is to empower families and other caregivers to facilitate play and language with their young child.
The program was designed with a focus on developing a broad base of knowledge and
skills to prepare students to meet the needs of individuals of all ages with a vast
array of human communication and swallowing impairments. Specialty experiences in
pediatric and adult feeding and swallowing disorders including training in endoscopy
make the APSU MSLP program unique. Students may also enrich their
graduate experience through faculty mentored research opportunities that arise from
the integrated academic and clinical curriculum.
Speech-Language Pathology is a great major choice for students who have a strong desire to help individuals improve their lives and value personal interactions.
Admission Requirements
For information related to admission requirements or to view the courses within each program, please visit the graduate bulletin. To apply for admission, click here.
What will I Learn
- Explain the nature of typical and disordered communication and swallowing across the lifespan.
- Develop evidence-based diagnostic and intervention plans in a variety of settings and for individuals with a variety of communication and swallowing disorders at a level appropriate for entry into professional practice.
- Choose a course of action to address an ethical dilemma associated with clinical practice that complies with the SLP Scope of Practice.
- Justify clinical decision making based on interpretation of research findings in the context of other relevant sources.
- Discuss professional issues that affect speech-language pathology.
- SUmmarize processes and requirements for professional credentials required for professional practice of speech-language pathology for carious locations and practice settings.
- Use effective communication skills, recognize the needs, values, preferred mode of communication and cultural/linguistic background of client, family, caregivers and relevant others.
- Implement evidence-based diagnostic and intervention plans in a variety of settings and for individuals with a variety of communication and swallowing disorders at a level appropriate for entry into professional practice.