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.
The faculty are highly qualified practitioners and educators. 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. 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.
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.