North Dakota’s commitment to providing comprehensive speech-language pathology programs extends beyond program diversity. This state is renowned for its strong emphasis on academic rigor and clinical excellence, making it an ideal destination for aspiring speech-language pathologists. After completing these programs in speech-language pathology from an accredited institution in North Dakota, individuals open the door to many benefits and career opportunities. For those searching to start their journey in speech-language pathology, several universities in the state offer associate, bachelor’s, Master’s, and doctoral degree programs in communication disorders and related fields. 

Moving up the academic ladder, North Dakota boasts reputable SLP degree programs in speech-language pathology, both in online and on-campus formats. These programs equip students with the advanced knowledge and clinical skills required to become licensed speech-language pathologists. For bachelor’s programs, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and a solid academic background in relevant coursework. Master’s programs, whether online or on campus, generally require a bachelor’s degree in communication disorders or a related field, along with competitive Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores. As for doctoral programs, candidates often need a master’s degree in speech-language pathology and demonstrate a track record of excellence in research and clinical practice.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of speech-language pathology degree programs in North Dakota, encompassing associate to master’s levels of education. Keep reading to get into the offerings available in the state.

Speech-language Pathology Degree Programs in North Dakota

There are various degree programs in this list, spanning from on-campus associates to master’s levels, designed to empower aspiring speech-language pathologists to excel in speech-language pathology and communication sciences. 

North Dakota Bachelors in Speech-language Pathology and Speech Therapy 

University of North Dakota- Bachelor of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Communication Sciences and Disorders is a rapidly expanding discipline that offers personal and professional gratification. At the University of North Dakota (UND), students learn the fundamental aspects of this field, covering subjects such as phonetics, speech and hearing science, language development, and audiology. A distinctive feature of the program is the hands-on experience gained through conducting research and providing clinical treatment to clients in the speech clinic. This practical exposure enriches students’ learning and lays a strong foundation for their future careers.

UND’s Communication Sciences and Disorders degree program is an excellent pathway to prepare for advanced studies required for becoming a licensed speech-language pathologist or audiologist. Whether the passion lies in helping children overcome speech disorders or assisting adults facing hearing challenges, the program equips individuals with the essential skills to positively impact people’s lives. Students have a proven success track, with opportunities in various settings, including schools, hospitals, nursing facilities, public clinics, private practice, research institutions, universities, and community hearing and speech agencies.

With a Communication Sciences and Disorders major from UND, individuals acquire strategic skills that open doors to diverse career options. Graduates find fulfilling roles as speech-language pathologists, speech disorder specialists, disabilities specialists, experts in autism therapies, and professionals in early intervention. Alumni have secured positions at esteemed institutions such as Sanford Health, Advanced Medical Personnel Services, Inc., Clinical, Inc., and the North Dakota School for the Deaf. This program not only shapes competent professionals but also empowers them to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve.

University of Mary- Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders

The Communication Sciences and Disorders Program at the University of Mary, housed within the Saint Gianna School of Health Science’s Department of Speech-Language Pathology, offers a thorough four-year Bachelor of Science degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders. This undergraduate curriculum is designed to impart knowledge encompassing normal and disordered speech, language, swallowing, and hearing processes. It strongly emphasizes assessment and intervention techniques informed by the latest research and evidence-based practices. 

The Communication Sciences and Disorders program takes pride in instilling Christian, Catholic, Benedictine, and professional speech-language values, ensuring students graduate with a strong foundation in ethics, respect, compassion, and a service-oriented approach. This program serves as a pre-professional pathway for students aspiring to enter the field of Speech-Language Pathology. It is essential to note that professional practice as a Speech-Language Pathologist or Audiologist necessitates further graduate-level study. 

The program’s objectives encompass the ability to discuss fundamental human communication and swallowing processes, analyze information related to communication differences and disorders, apply current principles and methods for prevention, assessment, and intervention in communication disorders, and actively engage in practical experiences such as Simucase, Master Clinician, Mock IEP, and Hearing Screenings. Furthermore, students are encouraged to develop practical oral and written communication skills across all academic settings while adhering to moral, ethical, and respectful conduct guided by Benedictine values. In terms of academic progression, students must achieve grades of C or higher in all Communication Sciences and Disorders coursework, ensuring a solid academic foundation in the program.

Minot State University- Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Minot State University houses a nationally recognized 4-year bachelor’s program known for its success rooted in collaboration among students, faculty, professionals, and clients. This program has consistently proven its ability to impart knowledge and mold students into innovative and well-rounded professionals, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and self-confidence. It caters to students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and disorders, primarily those interested in advancing to graduate studies in speech pathology or audiology.

MSU offers a post-baccalaureate program to facilitate a seamless transition from undergraduate studies to the Master’s in speech-language pathology program. Graduates of the Master’s program emerge as accredited speech-language pathologists, specializing in working with individuals across the lifespan dealing with a diverse array of challenges, including speech sound disorders, language disorders, autism, stuttering, hearing impairments, traumatic brain injuries, stroke rehabilitation, dementia, Alzheimer’s, voice hygiene, vocal disorders, swallowing and feeding issues, as well as genetic and acquired syndromes.

Completing the 120-semester hour communication sciences and disorders major at Minot State University typically takes four years, assuming an average course load of 15 credits per semester. The program encompasses 38 foundational education credits, 41 communication disorders credits, and 41 related content credits, with coursework commencing in the first year. A career in communication sciences and disorders from this institute opens doors to opportunities in education, healthcare, private practice, corporate settings, and research laboratories. SLPs collaborate with individuals facing a wide range of communication and swallowing difficulties, making a meaningful impact on their lives.

North Dakota Masters in Speech-language Pathology (MSLP) Programs 

University of North Dakota- Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

The Master’s program at the University of North Dakota (UND) is characterized by a rigorous blend of classroom education and hands-on research. Students benefit from real-world clinical experiences, allowing them to assess, diagnose, and treat various speech, language, and hearing disorders. At UND, students engage closely with a faculty renowned for their diverse professional experiences and interests. With an impressive student-to-faculty ratio of 3:1, students forge meaningful relationships with both professors and peers. 

The program also emphasizes practical experience, facilitated through an on-site clinic and collaborations with local schools and hospitals. Students can refine their skills in specialized areas, such as preschool language and literacy, feeding therapy, Parkinson’s therapy, toddler language development, and conversation groups. Upon graduation, students possess the expertise to aid both children and adults in overcoming communication challenges and enhancing their speech abilities. A master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology equips graduates with strategic skills, including speech-language pathology, speech disorder specialization, disabilities expertise, autism therapies, and early intervention methods.

Graduates of UND’s Speech-Language Pathology master’s program enter the workforce with solid prospects. Many secure positions in diverse settings, including hospitals, nursing facilities, schools, private clinics, and beyond. Notable employers of UND’s speech-language pathology graduates include Sanford Health, Advanced Medical Personnel Services, Inc., Clinical, Inc., and the North Dakota School for the Deaf. This program provides professionals with the knowledge and skills needed for success and opens doors to impactful careers dedicated to improving communication and enriching lives.

University of Mary- Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

The University of Mary offers a comprehensive Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology Program (M.S. SLP) as part of the Saint Gianna School of Health Science’s Department of Speech-Language Pathology. This two-year graduate program is tailored to provide a professional pathway for students aspiring to become licensed and certified Speech-Language Pathologists.

The program spans five semesters, with one semester during the summer between the first and second years. Its curriculum deeply explains normal and disordered speech, language, and hearing processes. Students are engaged in individual or group research projects, culminating in presentations and research papers in manuscript form. To complement their academic learning, students participate in clinical rotations across various settings, including on-campus clinics, private practices, public schools, SNFs (Skilled Nursing Facilities), hospitals, and rehabilitation centers. Furthermore, they gain hands-on experience by providing speech therapy services under faculty supervision in the on-campus pro bono clinic. The completion of both the academic and clinical components of the curriculum leads to the awarding of a Master of Science in Speech Language-Pathology degree.

The M.S. program in speech-language pathology at the University of Mary holds accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) and (ASHA) The program’s outcomes include preparing graduates to demonstrate proficiency in conducting comprehensive evaluations and providing evidence-based treatment for people with communication disorders across the lifespan. Graduates also exhibit professional competence in oral and written communication skills, positioning them for success as Speech-Language Pathologists in a dynamic and rewarding field.

Minot State University- Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Minot State University’s Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program stands as a reputable pathway for individuals seeking eligibility for ASHA certification and North Dakota licensure. Moreover, this program extends its reach to students from diverse regions, including across the United States and Canada, facilitating the acquisition of state and provincial licensure through its comprehensive curriculum.

The residential program entails at least 62 semester hours of graduate credit, spanning five semesters, culminating in an externship tailored to the student’s preferences. Conversely, the online program, offered part-time, spans eight consecutive online semesters, with the final internship occurring during the seventh and eighth semesters. Additionally, students must complete oral and written comprehensive examinations or opt for the thesis route, culminating in a successful thesis defense.

Minot State University’s Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program maintains accreditation from the CAA in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (ASHA). This accreditation underscores the program’s commitment to meeting rigorous academic standards and providing a quality education in speech-language pathology. Importantly, all clinical faculty within the program hold the ASHA Certificate for Clinical Competence in their respective areas and are licensed by the North Dakota State Board of Examiners.

Maryville University- Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology

Students completing Maryville University’s Speech-Language Pathology master’s program will emerge well-prepared for ASHA (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association) certification and the attainment of CCC-SLP status (Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology). They will also be equipped to pursue Missouri state licensure, a requirement mandating the completion of a Clinical Fellowship Year following the Master’s degree program.

The M.S. education program in speech-language pathology, offered through residential and distance education formats at Maryville University, boasts accreditation from ASHA and CAA. This accreditation underscores the program’s commitment to maintaining the highest academic standards and delivering a top-quality education in speech-language pathology.

At the graduate level, students embark on direct service provision to clients under the guidance and supervision of licensed and certified speech-language pathologists. Typically, the initial client interactions occur on campus within the Maryville University Speech and Language Clinic.

 Depending on individual student competencies and client availability, additional practicum opportunities may encompass the Walker Scottish Rite Clinic for Childhood Language Disorders, housed within Walker Hall, or engagement with various medical and educational partners in the community. Regardless of the setting, graduate student clinicians benefit from close supervision by ASHA-certified speech-language pathologists, ensuring a rich and supportive learning experience.

Online Masters in Speech-language Pathology in North Dakota

Minot State University- Online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Minot State University’s Master’s program offers two distinct educational paths for aspiring speech-language pathologists. The first is an intensive five-semester program conducted on campus, combining a robust course load with comprehensive clinical practicums. These hands-on experiences, both on and off campus, provide students with invaluable insights into communication and swallowing disorders. The recently renovated clinical facility boasts specialized labs for voice, stuttering, AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication), language/articulation, and medical speech-language studies. 

Moreover, students have the unique opportunity to engage in experiential learning within the cadaver lab. The program culminates with an externship in the student’s chosen site during the final semester. Conversely, the online part-time graduate program spans eight semesters and offers flexibility for remote learning. It includes a summer semester that necessitates on-campus residency for labs and clinical exposure, facilitating a comprehensive skill set. This intensive experience leads to two semesters of externship placements across various clinical settings.

Throughout both programs, students gain extensive clinical experience in assessing and addressing communication and swallowing disorders across diverse client populations and age groups. These clinical opportunities cover various conditions, including speech sound disorders, voice issues, receptive/expressive language difficulties, cognitive and social aspects of communication, the interplay between hearing and speech-language, alternative and augmentative communication methods, and genetic and acquired syndromes. This diverse clinical exposure equips graduates with the skills and expertise required for a career in speech-language pathology.

Maryville University- Online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

The Maryville Online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program offers a dynamic and flexible pathway for individuals aspiring to make a transformative impact in speech-language pathology. Designed to align with the competencies established by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and the Council on Academic Accreditation for Audiology as well as from Speech-Language Pathology (CAA), this program equips students with the knowledge and skills to excel in their careers and empower individuals to communicate effectively.

One of the program’s notable advantages is its accessibility and convenience, with 100% online coursework allowing students to complete their studies in just five semesters. Streamlined admissions procedures, facilitated through the Centralized Application Service for Communication Science & Disorders Programs (CSDCAS), offer the flexibility of choosing from fall or spring start dates. The program’s curriculum is project-based, providing students with practical experiences and honing real-world skills through innovative platforms such as Simucase and MBSImP.

Students also benefit from the guidance of a dedicated faculty comprising experienced, practicing clinicians who bridge the gap between theory and practical application. Upon program completion, graduates are well-prepared to become state-licensed, ASHA-certified SLP-CCC professionals and eligible for MBSImP certification. The Maryville Online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program paves the way for a fulfilling and impactful career in a vital field dedicated to enhancing communication abilities and societal participation.

Conclusion

Under the purview of The North Dakota Speech-Language-Hearing Association, North Dakota’s educational landscape provides diverse degree programs, spanning from Associate to Master’s levels, to nurture skilled speech-language pathologists (SLPs). These programs emphasize critical thinking and ethical foundations while addressing various communication disorders. Prospective SLPs can conveniently enroll through online forms, setting the stage for a fulfilling career in this pivotal field.

North Dakota Speech-Language Pathology Programs

Program	University Name	City	State	Accreditation
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	University of North Dakota	Grand Forks	ND	ASHA
Master's in Audiology (MS)	Minot State University	Minot	ND
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	Minot State University	Minot	ND	ASHA