What is a Master’s in Communication Disorders Degree?
A Master’s in Communication Disorders is a graduate degree that prepares students to diagnose, treat and research communication and swallowing disorders. The curriculum for a Master of Science (MS) in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) typically includes coursework that gives a broader overview of speech, language, hearing and swallowing disorders. This includes research methodologies, assessment techniques, policy overviews and other academic subject areas.
For students looking for a more specific degree rather than the holistic introduction to communication disorders that a communication sciences and disorders graduate program provides, there’s the Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP). Typically, the curriculum for an MS-SLP highlights clinical practice in addition to communication disorder foundations. For example, the curriculum for the hybrid online MS-SLP graduate program at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) may include:
- Language development and disorders
- Neuroanatomy and neurophysiology
- Research methods
- Clinical practicum each trimester
The MS-SLP at USAHS typically takes one year and eight months to complete*, including academic coursework and clinical practicum experiences.
A master’s in communication disorders and an MS-SLP allow you to pursue a career as a licensed speech-language pathologist. Graduating from an accredited program is required for certification and licensure as a speech-language pathologist in most states.1 The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) is the primary accrediting body for communication sciences and disorders master’s programs in the US. USAHS’ MS-SLP program is accredited by the CAA.2
What Can I Do with a Master’s in Communication Disorders or an MS-SLP?
A master’s in communication disorders or an MS-SLP can lead to several rewarding career paths:
Speech-Language Pathologist
Pursuing a career as a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) can be immensely fulfilling. SLPs make a profound impact on individual lives by diagnosing and treating communication and swallowing disorders. With a projected job growth of 19% from 2022 to 2032, the field offers exceptional job security and opportunities for advancement.3
In addition to job prospects, SLPs with a Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders (MS-CSD) or MS-SLP enjoy competitive compensation. The 2023 median pay for SLPs is $89,290 yearly, or $42.93 per hour.3 The profession also offers the flexibility to work in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, clinics and private practices, allowing SLPs to find the environment that best suits their interests and skills.
Speech-language pathologists can explore diverse career paths beyond traditional clinical roles. With a master’s in communications disorders or an MS-SLP, SLPs can work in pediatric and bilingual specializations, research roles, management positions and executive leadership.
They can get involved in nonprofit leadership, training and development, sales and marketing. There are numerous possibilities to leverage expertise as an SLP across various industries to support communication and language initiatives.
Audiologist
Being an audiologist can be a rewarding career choice for those looking to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives by diagnosing, managing and treating hearing and balance disorders.4 With a projected 11% yearly growth in the number of audiologist jobs from 2022 to 2032, the field offers job security and opportunities.5 Moreover, audiologists enjoy competitive salaries, with a 2023 median pay of $87,740 per year or $42.19/hour.5 Keep in mind, however, that becoming an audiologist requires pursuing advanced education beyond earning a Master’s in Communication Disorders or an MS-SLP. Audiologists must complete 8–10 years of education and clinical training, and earn their AuD (doctor of Audiology), PhD, or an AuD/PhD combination degree.4
Is Communication Sciences and Disorders or an MS-SLP the Best Path?
Earning a Masters of Communication Sciences and Disorders can be fulfilling. Both this degree and an MS-SLP offer the opportunity to build a flourishing career and get clinical experience as a speech-language pathologist. SLPs rank in the top 10 out of 100 best jobs in America and the top three in healthcare, according to U.S. News and World Report.6 A systematic review of 17 studies that reported on well-being in SLPs found consistent evidence of average to high job satisfaction among SLPs in the USA and Canada.7
SLPs with either an MS-SLP or a Masters in Communication Disorders often enjoy excellent benefits, the flexibility to work in various settings alongside diverse patients and great job security.8
Employment rates for SLPs are strong, with Texas, California, New York, Illinois, and Florida being the top five states for employment.9 As of 2023, Texas employed 18,790 SLPs, followed by California (17,270), New York (16,610), Illinois (8,260) and Florida (7,850).9
A Masters of Communication Sciences and Disorders and an MS-SLP can equip students with valuable technical and soft skills. For example, the MS-SLP curriculum at USAHS includes classes that help foster the following skill sets in future SLPs:
Technical Skills
- Assessing and diagnosing speech, language, communication and swallowing disorders
- Developing and implementing treatment plans for a variety of disorders in people across the lifespan
- Using specialized tools and technologies for assessment and therapy (e.g., augmentative and alternative communication devices, endoscopy equipment)
- Administering and interpreting diagnostic tests for speech, language and swallowing differences/disorders
- Applying evidence-based practices and research findings
Essential Skills
- Effective communication with patients, families and healthcare teams
- Active listening and empathy to understand patient needs
- Problem-solving and critical thinking to develop individualized treatment plans
- Collaboration and teamwork with other healthcare professionals
- Adaptability to work with diverse populations and in various settings
- Time management and organizational skills to handle multiple cases and documentation requirements
Is Communication Disorders or MS-SLP a STEM Pursuit?
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) pursuits focus on scientific principles, problem-solving and technological applications.10 In line with STEM principles, communication sciences and disorders graduate programs and MS-SLP paths like the program USAHS often include coursework in anatomy, physiology, language development and neurological bases of communication. These involve scientific principles from biology, psychology and physics, similar to any STEM pursuit. Students also often learn to use technological tools for assessment and treatment.
However, both a master’s in communication sciences and disorders as well as an MS-SLP emphasize human interaction and clinical application, with subjects such as phonetics, clinical methods, counseling and professional ethics. These components are less common in traditional STEM paths.
Ultimately, while both an MS in communication disorders program and an MS-SLP share some characteristics with STEM fields, their classifications may vary depending on the specific criteria used by the institution or organization making the determination.
How Does Either Degree Relate to Public Health?
Both a master’s in communication disorders and an MS-SLP degree are related to public health. Public health professionals make significant contributions to the prevention, identification and treatment of communication disorders, which can have far-reaching impacts on overall health and well-being.
Graduates in both degree paths promote public health through early diagnosis and intervention. By identifying communication disorders in early childhood, practitioners prevent or mitigate long-term consequences, such as academic difficulties, social isolation and unemployment. Research has shown, for example, that early intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder can improve their language skills, social interaction and cognitive development.11
In addition to early intervention, professionals holding either an MS in communication disorders or a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology can lead community-based programs. These initiatives:12
- Raise awareness about communication disorders
- Provide accessible screening and treatment services
- Often target underserved populations who may face barriers to care
The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) supports the Identify the Signs campaign, which educates the public about early warning signs of communication disorders and encourages early intervention.13
Interdisciplinary collaboration is another crucial aspect of how graduates with either an MS-SLP or MS in communication disorders contribute to public health.14 They work closely with professionals such as:
- Pediatricians
- Neurologists
- Psychologists
- Occupational therapists
By focusing on prevention, community outreach and interdisciplinary care, graduates with either an MS-SLP or a Master of Science in Communication Disorders can promote public health and improve outcomes for individuals with communication disorders.
Prepare for a Career in SLP with USAHS
Working as a speech-language pathologist offers numerous advantages, such as a competitive salary, job security and the chance to positively impact patient lives.3,8 Consider embarking on your journey to earn an MS-SLP with USAHS. We’ve been committed to graduate health sciences education since 1979, and our Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) program focuses on student success with collaborative cohorts and expert faculty-practitioners.
The USAHS MS-SLP program spans approximately five trimesters* and offers spring, summer, and fall start dates** to accommodate various schedules. No GRE is required for admission, and students benefit from cutting-edge technology and a blend of virtual and face-to-face clinical practicums — including work at a pro-bono clinic.
Learn more about our dynamic, flexible MS-SLP program and apply today.
The Master of Science (M.S.) education program in Speech-Language Pathology {residential Austin, TX; satellite Dallas, TX; satellite San Marcos, CA; satellite St. Augustine, FL; all distance education} at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences is accredited 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.
*Time to completion may vary by student, depending on individual progress, credits transferred and other factors.
**Start dates vary by campus.
Sources
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, “Certification,” ASHA, 2024, https://www.asha.org/certification/
- Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, 2024, https://caa.asha.org/
- Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, “Speech-Language Pathologists,” Occupational Outlook Handbook, April 17 2024, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/speech-language-pathologists.htm
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, “Who Are Audiologists, and What Do They Do?” ASHA, 2024, https://www.asha.org/public/who-are-audiologists/
- Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, “Audiologists,” Occupational Outlook Handbook, April 17 2024, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/audiologists.htm
- U.S. News & World Report, “Speech-Language Pathologist,” U.S. News Best Jobs Rankings, 2024, https://money.usnews.com/careers/best-jobs/speech-language-pathologist
- Clair Ewen, et al., “Well-being, job satisfaction, stress and burnout in speech-language pathologists: A review,” International Journal of Speech-Language Pathology, May 14 2020; 23:180-190, https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/17549507.2020.1758210
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, “A Rewarding Career for You. A Better Life for Others,” ASHA, https://www.asha.org/siteassets/careers/a-rewarding-career-for-you.pdf
- Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, “Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023,” Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, April 3 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291127.htm#st
- “Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, including Computer Science,” U.S. Department of Education, https://www.ed.gov/stem/
- Slavica Maksimović, et al, “Importance of Early Intervention in Reducing Autistic Symptoms and Speech–Language Deficits in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder,” Children (Basel), January 2023; 10(1):122, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9857540/
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, “Social Responsibility at ASHA,” ASHA, 2024, https://www.asha.org/about/social-responsibility/
- “Identify the Signs of Communication Disorders,” ASHA, 2024, https://identifythesigns.org/
- Kathryn Y Hardin and James P Kelly, “The Role of Speech-Language Pathology in an Interdisciplinary Care Model for Persistent Symptomatology of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury,” Seminars in Speech and Language, February 2019; 40(1):65-78, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30616296/
