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 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)
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
Other Educational Costs
Non-required costs that can be funded with scholarships/loans.
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.