Speech-Language Pathology, MSLP Program Handbook

About the Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MSLP) Program

The mission of the Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MSLP)Program is to prepare students for New Jersey licensure and for certification by the American Speech- Language-Hearing Association in speech-language pathology, as well as for certification as speech-language specialists by the New Jersey Department of Education; to demonstrate the principles of evidence-based practice; to provide opportunities for continuing education; and to provide direct clinical services to the surrounding community.

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MSLP) Program at Stockton University has a curriculum designed to prepare program graduates for certification as speech- language pathologists by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) and for certification as Speech-Language Specialists in the New Jersey Public Schools. Graduates will also have the academic and clinical preparation to apply for a Temporary Speech-Language Pathology License in New Jersey. Additionally, graduates are also encouraged to consider an advanced degree such as the Ph.D. in Communication Sciences and Disorders.

The program's requirements are guided by the standards for certification in speech-language pathology set by the Council for Clinical Certification in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CFCC). The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) has a semi- autonomous entities agreement with the Council for Clinical Certification in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CFCC). Program requirements are also aligned with credentialing requirements of the New Jersey Department of Education (which issues Educational Services Certification for the Speech-Language Specialist) and the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Advisory Committee (which issues the license to practice speech-language pathology).

The program currently requires completion of 63 graduate credits. All master’s degree candidates must complete 400 clinical hours of supervised clinical experience. Of these 400 hours, 25 must be guided observation. Per ASHA certification requirements in speech-language pathology, at least 325 of the 400 clinical hours must be completed at the graduate level. Students receive clinical experience both on campus in the Speech and Hearing Clinic and off campus in various clinical externships. Students will be able to graduate having had a variety of clinical experiences.

The purpose of this handbook is to provide students with the information they will need throughout the program. Students are also encouraged to consult the program website: stockton.edu/graduate/communication-disorders and to meet regularly with their academic preceptors. Students must enroll full-time in the MSLP Program. The requirements are rigorous, but the outcome is rewarding.

Sincerely,