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Speech-Language Pathology, Certificate

Designed for individuals who have completed an undergraduate degree outside of speech, language, and hearing sciences, the Speech-Language Pathology Post-Baccalaureate Certificate at Pennsylvania Western University offers a flexible pathway to pursue graduate studies in speech-language pathology. Available both in-person and online across any PennWest campus, the program caters to diverse learning preferences and schedules. Whether you aim to earn a post-bac certificate or seek conditional acceptance into the In-Person Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology Program, PennWest provides the foundation and support to achieve your professional goals.

Fact Sheet

This program is for you if...

  • You hold a bachelor's degree in a field other than communication sciences and disorders and wish to transition to a career in speech-language pathology.
  • You seek a flexible educational pathway with options for both in-person and online learning.
  • You aim for a future graduate study in speech-language pathology and require a foundational knowledge base of prerequisite coursework.
  • You are interested in a career that combines compassion with scientific understanding to improve individuals' communication abilities.
Locations
Locations
  • Global Online

Credits
Credits
  • 24 Credits for Certificate

What You'll Study

In the Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Speech-Language Pathology, you'll explore foundational subjects essential for a career in speech-language pathology. The curriculum encompasses a variety of topics including phonetics, language acquisition, auditory processes, and speech science. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of communication disorders and their impact on individuals across the lifespan. Through this program, you'll build the necessary knowledge base to pursue graduate studies and advance in the field of speech-language pathology.
24 Credits (8, 3-credit classes) that can be completed in 2 semesters.

Degrees, Certificates

 

Meet Our Faculty

Our faculty are not just instructors; they are mentors, researchers, and industry professionals committed to providing an education grounded in real-world experiences and academic excellence. From engaging classroom discussions to hands-on experiential learning, our educators are here to support and inspire you every step of the way.

Meet our faculty

 

Admission Requirements

Option 1: Apply for the Post-Bac Certificate Only

Under this option, students will earn the certificate only. They can then choose to apply to a graduate program in Speech-Language Pathology. If they apply for the PennWest Speech-Language Pathology program, their application will go under full review for consideration. Other universities may have different requirements for post-bac coursework. Minimum admission requirements are consistent with current undergraduate admissions criteria for PennWest.

Application process:

  • Students will apply through the PennWest website: online.pennwest.edu/apply
  • Admission Student Type: Post Baccalaureate
  • Certificate Program: Yes
  • Undergraduate Program Name/Major: Speech-Language Pathology (Cert)
  • The student’s application will undergo university review, and communication regarding acceptance will be sent from the PennWest Admissions office.
  • Code to waive application fee: APPLYPENNWEST

Option 2: Apply for Conditional Acceptance in the PennWest MSSLP program

Under this option, students are applying for the In-Person Master’s Program in Speech-Language Pathology at any of the PennWest campuses as a post-bac applicant. If accepted, they would first complete the required post-bac courses via mulitimodality options (in person, remote synchronous, asynchronous). Following successful completion of those courses, the students would then matriculate into the 5-semester In-Person MSSLP program at their preferred campus location. Minimum application requirements are a 3.0 GPA. Conditional acceptance into the Online MSSLP graduate program is currently not available. Students who wish to enroll in the Online MSSLP program, must apply through CSDCAS by the deadlines listed on CSDCAS.

Application process:  

  • Students will apply to the Face-to-Face Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology program at Pennsylvania Western University through CSDCAS: https://csdcas.liaisoncas.com  
  • Under custom questions, select: “Post-Bac Prep Program with Conditional Admission to Graduate Program.”
  • If accepted, the Graduate Program Director will prompt the student to also submit an application through the PennWest website using the steps outlined in option 1. This step is necessary to ensure undergraduate tuition for the post-bac courses.

Concentrations

There are no concentrations for this program.

How You’ll Learn

This program is offered 100% online.

Learn more about how you’ll learn.

    What You'll Become

    Graduates of the Post-Baccalaureate Program in Communication Sciences and Disorders at Pennsylvania Western University can pursue graduate studies in Speech-Language Pathology . With a graduate degree and certification, graduates can work in diverse settings including schools, private clinics, hospitals, and research facilities.

    Career Paths

    • Speech-Language Pathologist
    • Audiologists
    • Speech-Language Pathology Assistants

    Yesenia Santiago-Jimenez selected to Pennsylvania Speech-Language-Hearing Association

    Read More
    Highlight
    Communication disorders major selected to statewide association

    How We'll Help You Succeed

    At Pennsylvania Western University (PennWest), we prioritize your success and well-being from the moment you join our community. Our comprehensive student support system is designed to meet you where you are, offering personalized guidance, academic assistance, and emotional support to ensure you can fully focus on your studies and personal growth. Whether you're a first-generation college student, returning for further education, or navigating career changes, our dedicated faculty and staff provide the encouragement and resources you need to overcome challenges and thrive. With a wide range of services from tutoring and career counseling to mental health resources, PennWest stands by your side, empowering you to achieve your academic goals and prepare for a successful future. Join us at PennWest, where you're not just a student; you're part of a supportive family committed to helping you find your place in the world.

    Pathway to Advancement

    Opportunity for conditional acceptance into the master's program, setting a clear trajectory towards your speech-language pathology career.

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      Tuition & Fees
    • Success Coaching

      Achieve your academic goals with personalized guidance from our dedicated student success coaches.

      Success at PennWest
    • Post-Graduation Support

      We're here for you even after graduation, providing support and resources to help you succeed in your career.

      Life After PennWest

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