Portland-State-University 2023-2024 Bulletin

Admission requirements

In addition to the University requirements for admission to graduate programs, candidates for the Master’s degree program in speech-language pathology must have a background of undergraduate courses in speech and hearing sciences and related disciplines. The following courses (or their equivalents) are required prerequisites:

Prerequisites

Courses

SpHr 370Phonetics and Acoustics

4
SpHr 371Anatomy and Physiology of Speech and Swallowing

4
SpHr 372USpeech and Language Development in Children

4
SpHr 461Neurology of Speech and Hearing

4
SpHr 487Hearing Sciences

4
SpHr 488Clinical Audiology

4
SpHr 489Aural Rehabilitation

4
 
Stat 243ZElementary Statistics I

4
And
Stat 244Introduction to Probability and Statistics II

4

These prerequisites can be met by completing a Bachelor’s degree in Speech and Hearing Sciences at Portland State University or elsewhere. Individuals with Bachelor’s degrees in other disciplines may complete prerequisite courses by enrolling in the Department as a post-baccalaureate student. All prerequisites must be completed within 5 years of beginning the graduate program.

Strongly recommended

Note: while the following courses are not prerequisites for our graduate program, they are strongly recommended as preparation and are included in the undergraduate degree program and the CSD certification program.

Courses

SpHr 394Guided Observation

1
SpHr 463Language Disorders in Children

4
SpHr 464Speech Disorders in Children

4
SpHr 495Neurogenic Communication Disorders

4
SpHr 496Introduction to Clinical Management

4

All students applying for admission to the Master’s degree program should also have successfully completed one or more courses in each of the following areas: statistics (a stand alone Statistics course), biological science, physical sciences (Physics or Chemistry), and social/behavioral sciences. Students should also have completed 25 hours of guided clinical observation (see current ASHA Certification Standards).

Students may apply for admission to the master’s degree program while in the process of completing their Bachelor’s degree or post-baccalaureate coursework. Completion of the prerequisite courses does not guarantee admission into the program.

Application procedure

Candidates applying for admission to the graduate program in Speech and Hearing Sciences must submit application packets to both the Department and the PSU Graduate Admissions Office. Specific requirements of the Department include:

  1. Three letters of reference completed by individuals closely acquainted with the applicant’s academic or employment background. We recommend at least two letters address academic abilities and potential to succeed in the graduate program.
  2. Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.
  3. Personal Statement

Detailed information regarding the application process can be obtained from the Web site: www.pdx.edu/speech-hearing-sciences.