M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology

Saint Xavier University offers a state-of-the-art medical simulation lab on campus that provides an optimal learning environment for hands-on experiences. Our program includes both high-fidelity simulated learning experiences in our medical simulation lab and low-fidelity computer-based programs. These simulations are designed to prepare you for real-world clinical situations, enhancing your readiness before you begin your externships.

In the high-fidelity simulation lab, you will engage in realistic scenarios using advanced mannequins and equipment, allowing you to practice and refine your skills in a controlled, risk-free setting. These simulations help develop critical thinking, decision-making, and clinical skills, ensuring you are well-prepared to handle various speech and language disorders.

The low-fidelity computer-based programs complement these experiences by offering additional practice in diagnosing and treating patients, reinforcing your knowledge and skills through interactive case studies and virtual patients.

Students benefit from these simulations by gaining confidence and competence, making the transition to externships smoother and more effective. This comprehensive approach to learning ensures maximum readiness and prepares you for successful careers as speech-language pathologists.

We encourage you to visit our webpage for pictures and more information about our facilities, where you can see firsthand the advanced resources available to our students. By choosing Saint Xavier University, you will have access to cutting-edge technology and learning environments that set you apart in the field of speech-language pathology.

Our graduate Speech-Language Pathology program offers several unique features that set it apart. One of the highlights is the opportunity to complete a master’s thesis, allowing students to engage in in-depth research and contribute to the field. Additionally, we provide the chance to earn ISBE bilingual certification, equipping students to work effectively with diverse populations. Our program includes hands-on experience through our on-site clinic, where students work directly with clients under supervision. Moreover, students will benefit from off-site placements at schools, hospitals, and clinics, giving them a well-rounded and comprehensive clinical training experience.

The goal of the graduate Speech-Language Pathology program is to educate highly competent speech-language pathologists who are dedicated to the service of persons from infancy to maturity with communication and swallowing disabilities and who are capable of interacting effectively in a variety of employment settings, such as public schools, clinics, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, private special education schools, and private practice. This goal is achieved through a curriculum integrating academic rigor, research activities, and clinical practicum, which have been designed to:

• Prepare students with a wide theoretical base for understanding normal development of basic human communication processes as well as nature, causes, evaluation and treatment of disorders of swallowing and communication, including issues pertaining to culturally diverse populations. 

• Provide a variety of opportunities for supervised student clinical practicum with persons across the life cycle who are delayed or disordered in the development or use of effective communication and/or who exhibit disorders of swallowing.

• Develop competence in clinical diagnosis and intervention, interaction with families of individuals with communicative impairments, and collaboration with other professionals for effective and efficient team management of persons with complex disabilities.

• Foster a value for scientific rigor and a spirit of inquiry among future professionals.

The goals of the program reflect the vision of Saint Xavier University, which state, “Saint Xavier University, the affordable Catholic Mercy Institution, will become known for the strength of its relevant curricular and co-curricular offerings, accomplishments of its faculty, staff, and students, robust community engagement, and success of its graduates.”

SXU offers students a program of academic and clinical preparation which meets the requirements of the Council on Academic Accreditation of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) for the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology. It also prepares students to fulfill the requirements of the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) for work with students with speech-language impairment in the public schools of Illinois (Professional Educator License endorsed in Speech-Language Pathology Non-Teaching) as well as for professional licensure in the state of Illinois through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.

Choosing Saint Xavier University for your master’s degree in speech-language pathology offers a comprehensive and enriching educational experience. Our program uniquely combines classroom learning with application-based experiences, ensuring students graduate as well-rounded and highly skilled professionals. Through clinical experiences at the Ludden Speech and Language Clinic, students will develop critical thinking and strong collaboration skills essential for success in the field.

Our faculty members bring expertise in a wide range of speech and language disorders across the lifespan, creating challenging, interactive, and student-focused courses. Small class sizes foster close interaction with professors and peers, enhancing learning experiences and building a supportive academic community.

At Saint Xavier University, you will cultivate a habit of lifelong learning, preparing you to thrive in the ever-evolving health care profession. Additionally, our core values of service, integrity, and excellence are exemplified throughout campus, helping you become a more effective citizen and a valuable asset to your community.

With opportunities for hands-on clinical practice, strong faculty support, and a commitment to holistic education, Saint Xavier University stands out as an exceptional choice for your graduate studies in speech-language pathology.

• Saint Xavier University combines classroom learning with application-based learning to produce well-rounded graduates.
• Students have the opportunity to develop critical thinking skills and strong collaboration skills through a clinical experience at Ludden Speech and Language Clinic.
• Our faculty have expertise in a variety of speech and language disorders across the lifespan and create challenging courses that are interactive and student-focused.
• Small class sizes allow for close interaction with professors and student colleagues.
• Students will develop a habit of lifelong learning that will prepare them for the ever-changing health care profession.
• With core values of service, integrity and excellence exemplified throughout campus, students will become more effective citizens and assets to their communities.