SLP Admissions and Application

Admissions and Application Information

Academic standards, residence requirements, transfer credits consideration, and program time limits are in accordance with Western Washington University regulations and policies. The following is an overview of admission and application information regarding the Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) Master's program in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences (SLHS) department. Please see Western's Graduate School website for additional critical details regarding admission requirements and the application process.

Admission Requirements

  • A baccalaureate degree in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences/CSD/Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology from an accredited U.S. college or university or an equivalent degree from a foreign university. The degree must have been completed within the past eight years. Please note: A degree in Speech Sciences or Linguistics is not considered an "equivalent degree".
  • Applicants who have an undergraduate degree in another discipline must complete a Post-Baccalaureate Program or another accredited leveling program in Communication Sciences and Disorders/ Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences.
  • The following undergraduate coursework is required:
    • Phonetics, speech and language development, speech science, hearing science, anatomy and physiology of speech and hearing, neuroanatomy, audiometric testing, aural 
      (re)habilitation, a disorders course in speech, language, or hearing (ex. Developmental language disorders, speech disorders, acquired disorders in adults, AAC), and clinical processes/methods. We strongly suggest coursework in culturally responsive practice and/or diversity, equity, and justice. Courses in aural (re) habilitation and clinical processes are available during summer quarter for admitted graduate students who lack these courses.
  • At least 25 hours of guided, clinical observation approved by an ASHA certified speech-language-pathologist before starting the degree program.
  • An undergraduate grade point average of at least 3.00 (B or better).
     

Note: We strongly suggest you complete a neuroanatomy course. A course in aural rehabilitation is required prior to beginning your graduate program.

Application Materials

Apply online directly at the Graduate School admissions page. Within the Graduate School application you will be prompted to: 

  • Upload one copy of unofficial transcripts from all colleges and universities attended at time of application. This includes community college transcripts if applicable. Official transcript will be requested at time of admission into program.
  • Submit contact information for three references from professors or others who are able to make an appropriate assessment of your academic and professional competence and your potential for graduate level study. At least two of the reference letters must be from professors who can attest to your potential to be successful in graduate school for speech-language pathology. It is recommended that your academic letters are from professors who are speech-language pathologists or audiologists. Each reference will receive an invitation to upload or enter a letter of reference.
  • Upload a single-spaced statement of purpose of 700 words or less responding to the prompt on the application.
  • Upload a one-to-two-page resume that provides information about your educational background, awards, and relevant employment and volunteer experiences. If possible, include your major grade point average on your resume. If you speak languages other than English, please include those languages and your level of proficiency. 

Please do not send unsolicited materials such as term papers, ePortfolios, or course syllabi.

Deadlines

Application materials are due in the Graduate School office no later than January 15 of the year preceding the fall you plan to start graduate studies.

All application materials, including unofficial transcripts, must be submitted by the application deadline. The Graduate School will notify applicants of missing information only if the application is received well before the deadline.

Contact Information

SLP.Admissions@wwu.edu