Frequently Asked Questions

Application

Do I apply through CSDCAS?

No, all applicants must complete the Graduate School application. Applications must be completed and submitted online through the University.

Do I need an undergraduate degree or background in the discipline to be accepted to this program?

No, however, most students in the MA or AuD programs have a background in speech and hearing sciences or communication disorders. We do accept some outstanding students who come from a variety of other disciplines such as Spanish, music, law, theater, English, education, social work, psychology, and many others.

Students who enter the MA or AuD programs without a background in the field may take prerequisite courses along with undergraduates but will be fulfilling graduate requirements while doing so. Note that this will add time to your degree.

Many students entering the PhD program have a bachelor's degree or master's degree in communication disorders, speech-language pathology, audiology, or speech-language-hearing science. However, students with bachelor's or master's degrees in other areas are also eligible to enter the PhD program.

Am I required to take prerequisite courses before applying and admission to the professional graduate programs?

No, prerequisite courses are not required for applying and admission to the professional graduate programs. Students who have not completed courses in the Preparatory Course Content Areas and/or Foundations of Practice & Introductory Discipline Courses are eligible to apply. Taking prerequisite courses is at the discretion of the student.

• If I choose to take prerequisite courses, can I take prerequisite courses at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities?

Yes, you can take prerequisite courses as a non-degree seeking student through the College of Continuing and Professional Studies. If you are interested in pursuing another undergraduate degree, you must contact the Office of Admissions. Please note that taking courses through the College of Continuing and Professional Studies or as a second degree is NOT a guarantee of admission to the graduate program.

• If I choose to take prerequisite courses, can I take prerequisite courses at another post-secondary institution?

Yes, you can take prerequisite courses at another accredited post-secondary institution. ASHA EdFind allows you to search for CSD/SLHS program offerings based on institution, area of study, or keyword. Please note that taking courses through another accredited post-secondary institution is NOT a guarantee of admission to the graduate program.

What is the timeline for admission decisions?

Applicants will receive a decision seven to eight weeks after the application deadline. Applicants will be notified via email and/or their online application. 

Can I re-apply if I am not admitted to the program?

Yes, you will need to complete and submit a new Graduate School online application and follow any new application requirements. 

Program

How many new students are enrolled each year?

On an average year, 25-30 new MA students and 7-10 new AuD students are enrolled. We restrict the number of graduate students we admit because we want students to have the opportunity to work closely with the faculty. We also have a limited number of places where we can offer students excellent supervised clinical practice.

How long will it take me to complete the program?

Duration of the MA in Speech-Language Pathology

Students with undergraduate degrees in communication disorders or speech and hearing sciences are expected to complete the MA program in two years. Note that requests for early graduation from the program typically cannot be accommodated due to the clinic rotations required to meet certification standards. Students with no undergraduate background in the field typically complete the degree in approximately three years.

Duration of the Doctor of Audiology Degree

Students with undergraduate degrees in communication disorders or speech and hearing sciences are expected to complete the audiology program in four years. Students with no undergraduate background in the field typically complete the degree in approximately five years.

Duration of the PhD Degree

Students with a background in the discipline generally complete their degree requirements in four to five years. Students with no previous background generally complete their degree in five or more years, depending upon their area of interest.

Do I need to attend this program full time?

Yes, the department expects that all students engage in graduate study on a full-time basis. Students typically register for 12–14 credits per semester. In addition, summer registration may be required to complete degree requirements in a timely way. Even when not registered for credits in the summer, participation in clinical practicum during the summer months is expected.

Where can I estimate my educational costs?

Tuition: The graduate tuition rate is per semester and includes a 6-14 credit band for full-time registration. View current tuition information for professional students.

Fees: View current fee descriptions. 

I took some courses in the speech and hearing sciences as an undergraduate. Will they count toward my degree?

No, only courses that were taken as a graduate student can count toward your degree. 

Can I get a PhD degree after I complete the MA degree?

Some of our students decide during their MA studies to pursue further graduate study and obtain a PhD degree. These students can request a change in their graduate program and the faculty will review their request. If you are seriously considering doctoral study immediately after you complete the MA degree, please consult the director of graduate studies about the possibilities for applying to the PhD program.

What resources are available for me if I have a disability that I believe will affect my performance in this program?

We are committed to supporting students with diverse learning needs and creating an accessible learning environment. Students with a documented disability, including those pertaining to mental health, are strongly encouraged to register with the University’s Disability Resource Center (DRC) at the beginning of their graduate program.