Program Description

PROFESSION

The Professional Doctorate in Speech-Language Pathology is a degree for Master’s-level clinicians who want to increase depth of knowledge in the field of speech-language pathology while also acquiring clinical research experience. Graduates of the program will be trained to take positions as master clinicians, clinical researchers, and university clinical faculty. Current practitioners will gain advanced knowledge in the field of speech-language pathology, with specialized training in evidence-based practice, critical thinking, leadership, legal and ethical issues, and problem solving. Doctoral students will become adept at analyzing and synthesizing the existing research literature as they design and conduct their own clinical study in their area of interest.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

It is projected that students will spend 3 years on average in the program, taking 2 classes a quarter for 9-11 quarters. Students will have the ability to spend longer in the program in order to complete their Research Capstone Project.

The program is split into two broad domains. In the research domain, students will be given the necessary background and support to complete an independent research project in speech-language pathology. The process includes working with your Faculty Research Mentor to obtain IRB approval, implement the project, and submit the results for publication in a scholarly journal prior to completion of the program.

In the content domain, students get expertise in some of the most complex topics in the field. The doctoral seminars in speech-language pathology are designed to provide clinicians with increased depth of knowledge that is evidence-based.

State laws across the nation require universities to be authorized to legally deliver online education to students residing in states other than the home state of the institution. To view the list of states authorizing Loma Linda University online students, go to: https://home.llu.edu/education/office-of-provost/departments-and-divisions/educational-effectiveness/online-programs/llu-state-authorization
 

Program Website  |  Catalog

Program Length

9-11 quarters; Students have the ability to spend longer in the program in order to complete their research capstone project and prepare a manuscript ready for submission to a peer-reviewed journal.

Possible Careers

Public and private schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, short-term and long-term nursing care facilities, community clinics, colleges and universities, private practice offices, state and local health departments, state and federal government agencies, home health agencies (home care), adult day care centers, centers for persons with developmental disabilities, research laboratories.

Application Deadlines

Quarter Application Open Priority Deadline Final Deadline
Autumn of 2024 Oct 1, 2023 Jun 15, 2024

Admissions Requirements

  • Master’s degree in speech-language pathology from an accredited institution
  • Minimum GPA of 3.3
  • Current clinical certification (CCC’s) and state licensure to practice speech-language pathology
  • Completed online application
  • Nonrefundable application fee
  • Official transcripts for all undergraduate and graduate coursework
  • Resume
  • Three letters of reference
  • Written statement: 2-3 page essay describing your research interests (and experience, if any), your professional experience/accomplishments, why you want to pursue a Doctorate in Speech-Language Pathology, and why you want to attend Loma Linda University.
  • Virtual interview (to be scheduled with applicants who pass the first round of screening)
Integrating faith and health
Loma Linda University educates and encourages a balanced life by living our values of humility, compassion, justice, integrity, excellence, freedom and self- control. You will be surrounded by faculty who are committed to healthcare innovation and research while engaging your spirituality.

Expected Cost of Attendance

The following estimated cost of attendance is based on full-time attendance for the number of months enrolled per academic year. Estimated amounts may vary based on a number of factors. Students may use these estimates when applying for financial aid.

Required Program Costs

Academic Year 2023-2024

Year of Program
Months Enrolled
Year 1
9
Year 2
12
Year 3
6
Tuition & Fees $14,742 $19,656 $7,371
Books, Materials, Supplies & Equipment Allowance
(May or may not be purchased through the school)
$336 $448 $112

Other Educational Costs

Non-required costs that can be funded with scholarships/loans.

Year of Program
Months Enrolled
Year 1
9
Year 2
12
Year 3
6
Living Expense (Food & Housing Allowance)
Students will be assigned one of the following Living Expense Budget Options:
  • On Campus Dorm
  • $10,800 $14,400 $7,200
  • LLU Owned Rental Property
  • $17,280 $23,040 $11,520
  • LLU Owned Rental w/ Dependents
  • $18,180 $24,240 $12,120
  • Undergraduate Dependent w/ Parents
  • $6,480 $8,640 $4,320
  • Off Campus
  • $17,280 $23,040 $11,520
    Transportation Allowance $3,150 $4,200 $2,100
    Miscellaneous Personal Expenses $2,700 $3,600 $1,800
    Federal Student Loan Fees $217 $217 $217
    Cost of Obtaining Professional License 0 0 0
    Dependent Care
    (See Budget Revision Request form)
    Available upon Request
    Disability-Related Expenses
    (See Budget Revision Request form)
    Available upon Request

    Notes

    The cost of attendance varies from year to year. Please contact the Office of Student Finance for up-to-date costs.
    • Estimated amounts are for the academic year specified only. Amounts are based on full-time attendance for the number of months enrolled per academic year. International students need to calculate 12 months of living expenses based on these amounts.
    • Amounts are expected to increase each year consistent with inflation in the professional education sector.
    • To qualify for financial aid, most students must be enrolled at least half time in an aid eligible program and be taking degree requirements. Half time is 6 units in a quarter for undergraduate programs and 4 units in a quarter for graduate programs.