Speech-Language Pathology

https://healthsciences.pacific.edu/healthsciences/programs/speech-language-pathology
Phone: (209) 946-2381
Location: Chan Family Health Sciences Learning Center

Derek Isetti, Ph.D., Department Chair

Program Offered

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Mission

Study and research in this department focus on typical and atypical speech, language, and hearing processes. Students are prepared for professional careers in the field of Speech-Language Pathology. Clinical experience which supplements the students’ academic preparation is obtained in the University’s Speech, Hearing and Language Center, RiteCare Childhood Language Center of Stockton, the Language-Literacy Center, hospitals, clinics, and schools. This program is designed to provide academic, clinical, and research experiences leading to the Master of Science degree, the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology, and California state licensure in Speech-Language Pathology. Students may also qualify for the California Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential.

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program is a full-time program with a cohort based plan of study, accredited by the Council of Academic Accreditation of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.  Students are required to enroll full-time and must advance through a pre-determined curriculum of speech-language pathology (SLP) courses in sequence with their cohort.  Students are required to successfully pass each SLP course in a given semester in order to advance to the subsequent semester with their cohort and progress in the program.  Students who do not pass an SLP course, or who withdraw from an SLP course, will not be able to progress with their cohort in the program.  Students may be able to rejoin the program at a later date if allowed by program policy and approved by the program chair/director.  All students must successfully complete clinical practicum requirements as an inherent part of the program.  To earn a Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology, each student must demonstrate clinical competence as well as academic success.

Clinical competence refers to:

  1. The ability to identify individuals with communication disorders;
  2. The ability to perform comprehensive evaluations of individuals with communication disorders;
  3. The ability to facilitate positive changes in the communication skills of individuals with communication disorders;
  4. The ability to relate effectively to clients, their families, and fellow professionals. 

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology - 15 Month Program

Students must complete a minimum of 55 units with a Pacific cumulative grade point average of 3.0 in order to earn the master of science degree in speech-language pathology. 

Biology4
Physical Science Course (Physics or Chemistry)4
Child Development4
Statistics4
Introduction to Psychology or Sociology4
SLPA 201Professional Issues1
SLPA 205Adult Neurological Disorders I3
SLPA 209Language Disorders II3
SLPA 211Language Disorders III3
SLPA 215Aural Rehabilitation2
SLPA 217Voice Disorders3
SLPA 219Speech Sound Disorders II3
SLPA 222Adult Neurological Disorders II3
SLPA 225Public School Issues1
SLPA 227Auditory Processing Disorders1
SLPA 229Dysphagia/Swallowing Disorders3
SLPA 231Augmentative/Alternative Communication2
SLPA 233Cleft Palate and Syndromes2
SLPA 237Managed Care1
SLPA 239Assessment Procedures1
SLPA 241Research Methods3
SLPA 245Disorders of Fluency2
SLPA 247Autism Spectrum Disorders3
SLPA 253Medical Speech-Language Pathology2
SLPA 255Counseling Skills in Speech-Language Pathology2
SLPA 287AInternship in Speech and Hearing2-4
SLPA 287BFieldwork in Speech and Hearing2
SLPA 288Externship3-9
SLPA 289AAdvanced Clinic1-3
SLPA 289BAdvanced Clinic1-3
Select one of the following tracks:
A. Traditional (Clinical Focus) – Fulfilled by coursework above
B. SLPA 299 Thesis (See Graduate Program Director for further information)
CBEST Recommended

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology - 24 Month Program

Students must complete a minimum of 55 units with a Pacific cumulative grade point average of 3.0 in order to earn the master of science degree in speech-language pathology. 

Biology4
Physical Science Course (Physics or Chemistry)4
Child Development4
Statistics4
Introduction to Psychology or Sociology4
SLPA 105Clinical Methods III2
SLPA 107Clinical Methods IV1
SLPA 121Speech and Language Development3
SLPA 123Language Disorders I3
SLPA 125Speech Sound Disorders I3
SLPA 127Audiology3
SLPA 129Anatomy and Physiology in Communication Sciences and Disorders3
SLPA 131Phonetics3
SLPA 137Speech and Hearing Science3
SLPA 139Diagnostics3
SLPA 143Culturally Responsive Practices3
SLPA 201Professional Issues1
SLPA 205Adult Neurological Disorders I3
SLPA 209Language Disorders II3
SLPA 211Language Disorders III3
SLPA 215Aural Rehabilitation2
SLPA 217Voice Disorders3
SLPA 219Speech Sound Disorders II3
SLPA 222Adult Neurological Disorders II3
SLPA 225Public School Issues1
SLPA 227Auditory Processing Disorders1
SLPA 229Dysphagia/Swallowing Disorders3
SLPA 231Augmentative/Alternative Communication2
SLPA 233Cleft Palate and Syndromes2
SLPA 237Managed Care1
SLPA 239Assessment Procedures1
SLPA 241Research Methods3
SLPA 245Disorders of Fluency2
SLPA 247Autism Spectrum Disorders3
SLPA 253Medical Speech-Language Pathology2
SLPA 255Counseling Skills in Speech-Language Pathology2
SLPA 283Diagnostic Lab1
SLPA 287AInternship in Speech and Hearing2-4
SLPA 287BFieldwork in Speech and Hearing2
SLPA 288Externship3-9
SLPA 289AAdvanced Clinic1-3
SLPA 289BAdvanced Clinic1-3
Select one of the following tracks:
A. Traditional (Clinical Focus) - Fulfilled by coursework above
B. SLPA 299 Thesis (See Graduate Program Director for further information)
CBEST Recommended

Speech Courses

SLPA 101. Clinical Methods I. 2 Units.

Students participate in observations and analysis of therapy, materials, teaching methods, behavioral management and data collection. Prerequisite: SLPA051, SLPA121, SLPA125, SLPA129 and SLPA131 (concurrency allowed for all).

SLPA 103. Clinical Methods II. 1 Unit.

Students study methods, materials, and treatment of communicative disorders. Content includes: staffings, case studies, presentations, demonstrations, and class discussion. Corequisite: SLPA 123 & SLPA 137. Prerequisite: SLPA 127 (concurrent).

SLPA 105. Clinical Methods III. 2 Units.

This course assists the beginning clinician with: writing professional reports, accountability issues while exploring a variety of therapy delivery models. Corequisite: SLPA 139 & SLPA 151. Prerequisite: SLPA 101, SLPA 103, SLPA 183 or 181 (concurrent), and SLPA 189A or 110A (concurrent).

SLPA 107. Clinical Methods IV. 1 Unit.

Students discuss and analyze current clinical experiences. They also explore different disorders, populations, and work environments. Corequisite: SLPA 133 & SLPA 145. Prerequisite: SLPA 101, SLPA 103, SLPA 105, SLPA 143 (concurrent), and SLPA 189B or 110B (concurrent).

SLPA 110A. Clinical Observations. 1 Unit.

This course offers structured clinical observations for seniors not enrolled in SLPA 189A. Grading is Pass/No Credit only. Prerequisites: SLPA 101; SLPA 103; SLPA 181 or 183 (concurrent). Corequisites: SLPA 105, 139, & 151.

SLPA 110B. Clinical Observations. 1 Unit.

This course offers structured clinical observations for seniors not enrolled in SLPA 189B. Grading is Pass/No Credit only. Prerequisites: SLPA 101, 103, 105, & 143 (Concurrent). Corequisites: SLPA 107, 133, & 145.

SLPA 115. Aural Rehabilitation. 3 Units.

This course will cover the theory and methods of habilitation/rehabilitation of hearing-impaired children and adults. Procedures for assessment of hearing impairment, as well as speech and language development and intervention, speech conservation, speechreading, auditory training and amplification with individual hearing aids and FM systems will be covered. Prerequisites: SLPA 051, SLPA 101, SLPA 103, SLPA 105, SLPA 121, SLPA 123, SLPA 125, SLPA 127, SLPA 129, SLPA 131, SLPA 137, SLPA 139, SLPA 143, SLPA 151, SLPA 183 or SLPA 181, SLPA 189A or SLPA 110A, and SLPA 189B or SLPA 110B. Corequisites: SLPA 107 & SLPA 145.

SLPA 121. Speech and Language Development. 3 Units.

This course is designed to provide basic information relative to speech and language acquisition in normal children. Phonological, morphological, syntactic, semantic and pragmatic development is considered, as well as pyschosocial and intellectual correlates. This course is open to non-majors and SLP minors.

SLPA 123. Language Disorders I. 3 Units.

This introductory course examines the speech language and behavioral characteristics associated with intellectual disabilities, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, and neurological involvement. Discussion of appropriate diagnosis and therapeutic techniques is included. Open to non-majors and SLP minors. Prerequisites: SLPA 051, 101, 121, 125, 127 (concurrent), 129, & 131. Corequisites: SLPA 103 & 137.

SLPA 125. Speech Sound Disorders I. 3 Units.

An introduction to the etiology, assessment and remediation of articulation and phonologic disorders is the primary focus of the course. It is further designed to prepare students for the beginning clinical practicum experience. Prerequisites: SLPA 051 (concurrent); 121 (concurrent); 127; & 131 (concurrent). Corequisites: SLPA 101 & 129.

SLPA 127. Audiology. 3 Units.

This introductory course in audiology emphasizes basic acoustics and psychoacoustics, anatomy and physiology of the ear, hearing measurement (pure-tone, speech and tympanometry) and types of causes of hearing impairment. This course is open to non-majors and SLP minors. Prerequisites: SLPA 051, SLPA 121, & SLPA 131.

SLPA 129. Anatomy and Physiology in Communication Sciences and Disorders. 3 Units.

This course provides a foundation to the anatomy and physiology of speech, hearing, and swallowing. Topics include anatomy and physiology of respiration, hearing, phonation, articulation, resonation, and neurological functioning. This course is open to non-majors and SLP minors. Prerequisites: SLPA 051, SLPA 121, SLPA 127, & SLPA 131. Corequisites: SLPA 101 & SLPA 125.

SLPA 131. Phonetics. 3 Units.

Students study the analysis and classification of the phonemes of standard and nonstandard dialects of American English. The course includes: intensive practice in the use of the International Phonetic Alphabet, the intensive use of Visual Phonics, and the application of phonetics to communicative disorders. Open to non-majors and SLP minors. Prerequisites: SLPA 051 (concurrent). Corequisites: SLPA 101, SLPA 121, SLPA 125, & SLPA 129.

SLPA 133. Neurogenic Case Studies in Speech-Language Pathology. 3 Units.

This course requires students to integrate course content from all SLPA courses taken previously in analyzing and synthesizing clinical cases related to acquired neurogenic communication disorders. Corequisite: SLPA 107 & SLPA 145. Prerequisite: SLPA 051, SLPA 101, SLPA 103, SLPA 105, SLPA 121, SLPA 123, SLPA 125, SLPA 127, SLPA 129, SLPA 131, SLPA 137, SLPA 139, SLPA 143, SLPA 151, SLPA 183 or SLPA 181, SLPA 189A or SLPA 110A, and SLPA 189B or SLPA 110B.

SLPA 137. Speech and Hearing Science. 3 Units.

Speech and Hearing Science provides the student with academic and laboratory training in the sciences that provide the foundation of clinical practice in communication disorders. Students gain proficiency with various types of clinical equipment through hands-on experience. Open to non-majors and SLP minors. Corequisites: SLPA 103 & 123. Prerequisites: SLPA 051, SLPA 101, SLPA 121, SLPA 125, SLPA 127, SLPA 129, & SLPA 131.

SLPA 139. Diagnostics. 3 Units.

Students study the principles, models and methods of assessment of speech and language disorders. Topics include interview, testing, and reporting procedures. Corequisites: SLPA 105 & SLPA 151. Prerequisite: SLPA 051, SLPA 101, SLPA 103, SLPA 121, SLPA 123, SLPA 125, SLPA 127, SLPA 129, SLPA 131, SLPA 137, SLPA 183 or SLPA 181, and SLPA 189A or SLPA 110A.

SLPA 143. Culturally Responsive Practices. 3 Units.

Students examine theoretical models of normal second language acquisition and bilingualism that emphasize the relationship to accurate identification of communication disorders. The content distinguishes between language differences due to differing cultural linguistic variables and underlying, cross-lingual language impairment. Current research and trends in diagnosis and re-mediation techniques for multicultural clients is studied as well as problem-solving approaches for specific clinical cases. Open to non-majors and SLP minors with instructor permission. Prerequisites: SLPA 051, SLPA 101, SLPA 121, SLPA 125, SLPA 127, SLPA 129, & SLPA 131. (DVSY, ETHC, GEDI)

SLPA 145. Disorders of Fluency. 3 Units.

This introductory course in fluency disorders (stuttering) emphasizes etiology, theory, diagnosis and treatment of this speech disorder. Open to non-majors and SLP minors. Prerequisites: SLPA 051, SLPA 101, SLPA 103, SLPA 105, SLPA 121, SLPA 123, SLPA 125, SLPA 127 SLPA 129, SLPA 131, SLPA 137, SLPA 139, SLPA 143 (concurrent), SLPA 151, SLPA 183 or SLPA 181, SLPA 189A or SLPA 110A, & SLPA 189B or SLPA 110B (concurrent). Corequisites: SLPA 107 & SLPA 133.

SLPA 151. Behavior and Communication. 3 Units.

This class focuses on basic and advanced principles of behavior modifications as they relate to the area of communication sciences and disorders. Multiple strategies to increase, decrease, or modify behaviors are introduced. Theoretical and applied experiences in planning intervention strategies, measurement techniques, generalization and maintenance of changed behaviors are emphasized. Different models of understanding behavior which reflect an emphasis on neurodiversity affirming practice are highlighted. Prerequisite: SLPA 051, SLPA 101, SLPA 103, SLPA 121, SLPA 123, SLPA 125, SLPA 127, SLPA 129, SLPA 131, SLPA 137. Corequisite: SLPA 105 & SLPA 139.

SLPA 181. Diagnostic Observation. 1 Unit.

SLPA 181 offers structured diagnostic observations for seniors not registered in SLPA 183. Grading is Pass/No Credit only. Corequisites: SLPA 105, SLPA 139, & SLPA 151. Prerequisites: SLPA 051, SLPA 101, SLPA 103, SLPA 121, SLPA 123, SLPA 125, SLPA 127, SLPA 129, SLPA 131, SLPA 137, & SLPA 189A or 110A (concurrent).

SLPA 183. Diagnostic Laboratory. 1 Unit.

This course is a weekly three-hour lab experience that includes demonstration and practicum in assessment of speech and language disorders. Corequisite: SLPA 105, SLPA 139, and SLPA 151. Prerequisite: SLPA 051, SLPA 101, SLPA 103, SLPA 121, SLPA 123, SLPA 125, SLPA 127, SLPA 129, SLPA 131, SLPA 137, and SLPA 189A or SLPA 110A.

SLPA 189A. Beginning Clinic. 1 Unit.

This course provides students with direct beginning clinical experience in providing speech/language intervention to children/adolescents at the RiteCare Childhood Language Center of Stockton under the direct supervision of a licensed speech-language pathologist. Corequisites: SLPA 105, SLPA 139, & SLPA 151. Prerequisites: SLPA 051, SLPA 101, SLPA 103, SLPA 121, SLPA 123, SLPA 125, SLPA 127, SLPA 129, SLPA 131, SLPA 137, & SLPA 183 or SLPA 181 (concurrent).

SLPA 189B. Intermediate Clinic. 1 Unit.

This course provides students with direct intermediate level clinical experience in providing speech/language intervention to children/adolescents at the RiteCare Childhood Language Center of Stockton under the direct supervision of a licensed speech-language pathologist. Prerequisites: SLPA 051, SLPA 101, SLPA 103, SLPA 105, SLPA 121, SLPA 123, SLPA 125, SLPA 127 SLPA 129, SLPA 131, SLPA 137, SLPA 139, SLPA 143 (concurrent), SLPA 151, SLPA 183 or SLPA 181 (concurrent), & SLPA 189A or SLPA 110A (concurrent). Corequisites: SLPA 107, SLPA 133, & SLPA 145.

SLPA 191. Independent Study. 1-4 Units.

SLPA 193. Special Topics. 2-4 Units.

SLPA 201. Professional Issues. 1 Unit.

This seminar covers ethical and legal issues, practice standards, employment and business considerations for the practice of speech-language pathology. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 205. Adult Neurological Disorders I. 3 Units.

This class presents formal and informal assessment strategies and treatment strategies for adults who have language-based and motor speech-based communicative difficulties secondary to stroke, trauma, and degenerative conditions. Focus is directed to understanding and managing aphasia and motor speech disorders. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 209. Language Disorders II. 3 Units.

Students examine assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with language disorders in the language-for-learning and advanced language stages. An overview of language disorders in children and adolescents and the relationship between language and literacy are also components of this course. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 211. Language Disorders III. 3 Units.

Students examine assessment and treatment of children with language disorders in the prelinguistic, emerging, and developing language stages. Causation, prevention, and early intervention issues, as well as considerations for special populations, are also covered in this course. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 215. Aural Rehabilitation. 2 Units.

Students explore the theory and methods of habilitation/rehabilitation of hearing impaired children and adults. Procedures include speech and language development, speech conservation, speech reading, auditory training and amplification with individual and group hearing aids. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 217. Voice Disorders. 3 Units.

This graduate course concerns the study of the human voice and related disorders. Course content includes normal vocal development as well as functional and organic voice disorders. The primary course objective is to instruct students in the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of vocal pathologies. Graduate standing. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 219. Speech Sound Disorders II. 3 Units.

This course is designed for the advanced student to describe the characteristics, classifications, and causes of articulation/phonological disorders; describe the principles of assessments and assessment procedures; describe concepts, principles, and approaches to treatment; integrate theories and research to clinical practice; and demonstrate clinical problem solving skills for individuals with speech sound disorders or differences. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 222. Adult Neurological Disorders II. 3 Units.

This class will explore the assessment and treatment strategies in the management of cognitive and communicative difficulties secondary to traumatic brain injuries, right hemisphere disorders, and dementia. Evidence-based, pragmatic and experiential approaches will be explored in the differential diagnosis and treatment of these disorders. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 225. Public School Issues. 1 Unit.

This seminar reviews the organization and administration of language, speech, and hearing programs in public schools. Students also review federal and state legislation and legal decisions influencing public school speech-language pathologists. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 227. Auditory Processing Disorders. 1 Unit.

The role of the speech-language pathologist in the process of screening, diagnosis, evaluation and treatment of auditory processing disorders. Students obtain experience in administering and interpreting auditory processing screening tests and developing management plans. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 229. Dysphagia/Swallowing Disorders. 3 Units.

This graduate-level course investigates the nature of normal and abnormal swallowing function, the causes of dysphagia, its assessment and clinical management. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 231. Augmentative/Alternative Communication. 2 Units.

The course provides students with information about unaided and aided systems for alternative and augmentative communication. Students gain information and laboratory experiences that help them determine the most appropriate devices and methods of therapy for an individual and how to incorporate them into a complete communication system. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 233. Cleft Palate and Syndromes. 2 Units.

Students analyze research and theory in etiology, diagnosis and treatment of craniofacial anomalies and other genetic syndromes that involve communicative disorders. Diagnosis and treatment of speech disorders associated with cleft palate are emphasized. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 237. Managed Care. 1 Unit.

This is a graduate seminar in ethical and legal issues, practice standards, employment and government regulations for the speech-language pathologist who practices in the medical environment. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 239. Assessment Procedures. 1 Unit.

This course provides students with hands-on, practical experience administering, scoring, analyzing, and interpreting formal and informal speech/language assessment tests and measures. Speech/language assessment procedures and report writing are also taught in this course. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 241. Research Methods. 3 Units.

Students explore various research methodologies and statistical designs applicable to communicative disorders. They study and critically evaluate empirical studies from current literature and examine scholarly and professional writing skills. Students learn the application of the scientific method and the use of qualitative and quantitative data as it applies to the assessment and treatment of clients with communicative disorders. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 245. Disorders of Fluency. 2 Units.

This is an introductory course in fluency disorders with emphasis upon etiology, theory, diagnosis, and treatment of stuttering and cluttering. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 247. Autism Spectrum Disorders. 3 Units.

Students examine the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders. An overview of the nature and characteristics of autism spectrum disorders, as well as associated neurobiological factors, are additional topics taught in this course. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 253. Medical Speech-Language Pathology. 2 Units.

This course is designed to introduce graduate level clinicians in Speech-Language Pathology to the medical setting. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 255. Counseling Skills in Speech-Language Pathology. 2 Units.

This course is designed to enhance students' counseling skills, therapeutic effectiveness and relationship with future clients, and knowledge of areas and techniques important in counseling. Teaching will be through didactic and experiential processes. The experience of self-actualization through various exercises will be emphasized. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 283. Diagnostic Lab. 1 Unit.

A weekly three-hour lab experience that includes demonstration and practicum in the assessment of speech and language disorders. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 287A. Internship in Speech and Hearing. 2-4 Units.

Graduate level introductory clinical practicum course providing clinical assessment and treatment experience with children and/or adolescents under the direct supervision of a licensed, certified speech-language pathologist in a school setting. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 287B. Fieldwork in Speech and Hearing. 2 Units.

Graduate level advanced clinical practicum course providing clinical assessment and treatment experience with children and/or adolescents under the direct supervision of a licensed, certified speech-language pathologist in a school setting. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 288. Externship. 3-9 Units.

This experience is designed to provide students with a full-time, supervised experience in the field. Educational and medical settings are available. Open only to students who have completed all of their academic coursework, comprehensive examinations, and have maintained a graduate GPA of 3.0 or higher. Course may be repeated. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 289A. Advanced Clinic. 1-3 Units.

This course provides students with direct beginning/intermediate clinical experience in providing speech/language intervention to children/adolescents at the RiteCare Childhood Language Center of Stockton or adults at the Pacific Speech, Hearing, and Language Center Clinic under the direct supervision of a licensed speech-language pathologist. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 289B. Advanced Clinic. 1-3 Units.

This course provides students with direct intermediate/advanced level clinical experience in providing speech/language intervention to children/adolescents at the RiteCare Childhood Language Center of Stockton or the Pacific Speech, Hearing, and Language Center Clinic under the direct supervision of a licensed speech-language pathologist. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous courses in the SLPA course sequence or permission of instructor.

SLPA 291. Graduate Independent Study. 1-4 Units.

SLPA 293. Special Topics. 2-4 Units.

SLPA 297. Graduate Research. 1-4 Units.

SLPA 299. Thesis. 2 or 4 Units.

Program Specific Student Learning Outcomes

  1. Integrate concepts across a number of disorder areas needed to effectively practice as an entry-level speech-language pathologist (SLP).
  2. Independently design and implement comprehensive assessment and treatment plans for adults and children with communication disorders.
  3. Communicate effectively in both written and oral formats in academic and clinical environments by considering developmental, physical, linguistic, and cultural factors relevant to clients, families, and professionals from a range of disciplines. 

Student Learning Outcomes Specific to Certification in SLP

  1. Demonstrate knowledge of statistics as well as the biological, physical, and social/behavioral sciences.
  2. Demonstrate knowledge of basic human communication and swallowing processes, including the appropriate biological, neurological, acoustic, psychological, developmental, and linguistic and cultural bases. 
  3. Demonstrate the ability to integrate information pertaining to normal and abnormal human development across the life span.
  4. Demonstrate knowledge of communication and swallowing disorders and differences, including the appropriate etiologies, characteristics, and anatomical/physiological, acoustic, psychological, developmental, and linguistic and cultural correlates.
  5. Demonstrate current knowledge of the principles and methods of prevention, assessment, and intervention for persons with communication and swallowing disorders, including consideration of anatomical/physiological, psychological, developmental, and linguistic and cultural correlates.
  6. Demonstrate knowledge of standards of ethical conduct.
  7. Demonstrate knowledge of processes used in research and of the integration of research principles into evidence-based clinical practice.
  8. Demonstrate knowledge of contemporary professional issues.
  9. Demonstrate knowledge of entry level and advanced certifications, licensure, and other relevant professional credentials, as well as local, state, and national regulations and policies relevant to professional practice.
  10. Demonstrate skills in oral and written or other forms of communication sufficient for entry into professional practice.
  11. Demonstrate skills in evaluation, intervention, and professional communication and interaction.
  12. Complete a minimum of 400 clock hours of supervised clinical experience in the practice of speech-language pathology with at least 325 of the 400 clock hours completed at the graduate level. Twenty-five guided observation hours are also required.
  13. Pass the national examination adopted by ASHA for purposes of certification and licensure in speech-language pathology.

Speech-Language Pathology Faculty

Jeannene Ward-Lonergan, Professor and Associate Dean, 1999., B.S., St. Joseph College, 1984; M.S., Boston University, 1989; Ph.D. University of Connecticut, 1995.

Derek Isetti, Associate Professor and Chair, 2015., BA, University of California, Irvine, 1996; M.S., University of the Pacific, 2008; Ph.D., University of Washington, 2014.

Larry Boles, Professor, Graduate Program Director, 2010., BA, San Francisco State University, 1978; MA, 1982; Ph.D., University of Arizona, 1995.

Karissa Pina, Assistant Clinical Professor and Director of Clinical Education, 2023, BS, University of the Pacific 2010, MA, San Jose State University, 2012.

Megan Black, Assistant Professor, 2020., BS, University of the Pacific, 2013, MS, University of the Pacific, 2014, DSHc, University of the Pacific, 2023.

Nalanda Chakraborty, Assistant Professor, 2022, BS, Manipal University, 2008; MS, Manipal University, 2010; PhD, University of Florida, 2018.

Valerie McDaniel, Assistant Professor, 2021, BA, Loyola University, 2004; MA, Drexel University, 2010; MA, University of Memphis, 2015; PhD, University of Memphis, 2020.

Ashley Kramer, Assistant Clinical Professor and Clinic Director of the RiteCare Childhood Language Center of Stockton, 2022, BS, University of the Pacific, 2010; MS, University of the Pacific, 2011.

Madhu Sundarrajan, Assistant Professor, 2019., Bachelor of Information Technology, University of Delhi, India, 2004; M.S. University of Texas at Dallas, 2007; Ph.D., University of Texas at Dallas, 2015