Graduate Communication Sciences & Disorders
Accredited
Our programs provide a small faculty-student ratio and academic and clinical opportunities.
The graduate programs in audiology and speech-language pathology provide broad-based academic, clinical and research preparation to prepare professionals in the two disciplines.
Degrees
Master of Arts (M.A.) in Speech-Language Pathology
A two-year, post baccalaureate program consisting of coursework and on-site clinical practica, followed by two semesters of full-time, external internship placements.
Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.)
Provides students with the scientific and clinical knowledge and skills needed for the practice of audiology in an environment that values teaching and clinical excellence and mentorship.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must complete the USD Graduate Application and the Communication Sciences and Disorders Centralized Application Service (CSDCAS) Online Application. Admission to this program requires all of the following:
- Minimum Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 and/or Graduate GPA of 3.0 (based on a 4.0 scale) is required.
- Completion of a baccalaureate degree in communication sciences and disorders or completion of core foundational coursework in communication disorders after completing and receiving an undergraduate degree in another discipline is required.
- The GRE General test is required. There is no minimum score required; the score is considered along with other application materials. Please use code 4333 to report scores to USD CSDCAS.
- Applicants must successfully complete a criminal background check upon acceptance.
- Additional requirements exist for international applicants. For more information, visit International Admission Requirements.
For more detailed admission requirements, please refer to Communication Sciences and Disorders in the current graduate catalog.
Applicants must submit the following to the University of South Dakota's Graduate School:
In order to complete your Graduate School application to the University of South Dakota, you must submit a $35 application fee, in addition to the CSDCAS fee. The USD Graduate Application Fee cannot be waived or deferred and it is nonrefundable. The fee can be paid on the USD Deposits and Fees website.
Applicants must submit the following to CSDCAS:
- CSDCAS Online Application
- Statement of purpose or goal statement
- Three (3) professional letters of recommendation
- Official GRE test scores - Please use code 4333
- Official transcripts verifying receipt of an undergraduate degree earned and previous graduate credit earned
Application Deadline:
CSDCAS application opens: July 15
- Fall semester: January 15
- Spring semester: October 1 (SLP program only)
The Classroom & Beyond
Graduates of our masters program in SLP and doctoral program in audiology enjoy a 100% employment rate with placements throughout the nation and Canada.
Our students provide individualized services under the guidance and supervision of state-licensed and nationally certified speech-language pathologists and audiologists.
