Remote Work and Learning to Continue Friday, January 24

Admission Requirements and Criteria

Graduate Admission Requirements

Upon submitting a graduate admissions application, applicants will be directed to an Application Portal with further instructions on how to submit or upload required materials. Applicants will also receive an emailed link to the Application Portal to log back in later to review information about required materials and upload necessary documents. 

 **The use of the online Application Portal is effective for the Fall 2022 admission cycle.  Application requirements found in the University’s General Catalog do not yet reflect this change  Applicants should follow the process described below. Admissions requirements have not changed.**  

  1. Submit an online application for admission to the University and pay the application fee
  2. Provide official Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores *
  3. Provide immunization records *
  4. Provide all official transcripts of college level academic work *

*Official GRE scores and transcripts should be sent directly to Graduate Admissions. Follow this link for instructions.

*Immunization records may be uploaded directly into the application portal

Submission Requirements

  • Three Letters of Recommendation: Within your admissions application, you will be required to list the name and contact information of three references, who will receive a request to submit a letter of recommendation on your behalf.  You should select references familiar with your potential for completing a graduate program in communication sciences and disorders. After selecting “Send to Recommender” within the application, each reference will be emailed a link to complete a reference form and submit a letter of recommendation, which will upload directly to your application file.
  • Writing Sample: A 1–2-page writing sample with standard formatting (single-space, 1 inch margins, Times New Roman, 12 point font) in response to the following writing prompt: “Share an experience that changed/shaped your thinking or actions. We would like you to tell us how and why it changed you”. The writing sample will be scored on organization, focus, originality, writer’s voice, freedom from error, and overall writing success. The writing sample should be uploaded within the University’s graduate admissions portal.

Letter of Recommendation Guidance

When applying to Southeastern Louisiana University’s Speech-Language Pathology Master’s program, it is recommended that applicants choose recommenders who can speak to and provide specific examples of the applicant’s:

  • Academic background and history: Highlight performance in relevant coursework, including ability to grasp complex material and commitment to academic excellence.
  • Leadership abilities: Provide examples of leadership in academic, clinical, or work settings.
  • Work ethic: Comment on dedication, reliability, and effort put into studies, clinical work, or job responsibilities.
  • Response to feedback: Detail openness to constructive criticism and how feedback is used to grow and improve academic or clinical pursuits.
  • Professionalism: Speak to ethical decision-making and ability to interact with others in a professional manner.
  • Problem-solving skills: Offer examples of navigating challenges and coming up with effective solutions in academic or clinical environments.
  • Critical thinking abilities: Illustrate critical thinking skills, especially when approaching complex problems or case studies.
  • Readiness for graduate-level coursework: Confirm preparedness for the rigor and demands of a master’s program, including the ability to succeed in both academic and clinical training.

Choosing the Right Recommender

Ideal recommenders include professors, clinical supervisors, mentors, or employers who have an understanding of your academic and professional journey. Their letters should not only endorse you as a candidate but also provide insight into your character, abilities, and potential for success in graduate school.

To help your recommenders write a comprehensive and tailored letter, it’s recommended that you:

  • Share your resume/CV: This allows your recommender to reference your extracurricular activities, research involvement, volunteer work, and any honors or awards you have received.
  • Provide context: Ensure they know how long they’ve known you and in what capacity (e.g., instructor, supervisor, mentor) to help frame their letter.
  • Discuss your goals: Brief your recommenders on why you’re applying to SLU’s Speech-Language Pathology Master’s program, and highlight any specific aspects of your experience you’d like them to emphasize.

Calculating your Admission Score

Admission to the CSD Graduate Program is competitive and enrollment is limited. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.

  • Grade Point Average: Minimum 2.75 cumulative GPA. Minimum 3.00 GPA on the last two years (approximately 60-70 semester hours or 90-100 quarter hours) of upper-level undergraduate academic course work.
  • Calculation of Admission Score: A score of at least 1225 based on the following formula: (Cumulative GPA x 100) + (last 60 hours GPA x 100) + (GRE verbal x 2.35) + (GRE quantitative x 2.35) > or = 1225* *A total of 1225 does not guarantee admission.

The Analytical Writing Score from the GRE will be considered separately.

Program Application Deadlines

All application materials must be completed and on file* by:

  • March 1 for fall admission
  • October 1 for spring admission

*Please allow at least three weeks for admission materials to arrive and be processed.

Tips when Preparing for Southeastern Louisiana University's Master’s Program in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD)

Below are some tips to help strengthen your application when applying to Southeastern Louisiana University’s (SLU) Master’s program in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD).

Submit your materials on time and request transcripts and recommendation letters early. Processing these documents may take time, so request them in advance.

Explore our graduate program’s mission, faculty interests, clinical opportunities, and areas of specialization. Ensure the program aligns with your career goals and professional interests. SLU emphasizes academic and clinical excellence, so demonstrate how you can contribute to and benefit from our program.

We hold an in-person open house on SLU’s campus once a semester. This event provides an opportunity to ask questions about the program and network with our faculty.

Letters of recommendation are a key part of your application. Build relationships with professors, clinical supervisors, employers, or SLP professionals who can speak to your academic abilities, work ethic, and suitability for graduate study. Choose recommenders who can speak to your academic strengths and professional potential. Academic advisors, professors, employers, and clinical supervisors are good options.

Engaging with professors, clinical supervisors, and SLP professionals during your undergraduate studies or related experiences can be highly beneficial. These individuals not only guide your academic and clinical development but can also serve as valuable references in your application. 

A competitive GP is a key component of your application as it is factored into your overall formula score along with your GRE scores. Familiarize yourself with SLU’s 

Review SLU’s GRE requirements. Currently, our CSD program requires GRE scores. Aim for scores that meet or exceed the program’s average. Allocate time for test preparation. Make a study plan and consider any materials or prep courses you want to purchase or engage with. You want to make sure you receive your scores before our application deadline. 

Proofread your application carefully, ensuring all components (transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation) are submitted on time and accurately. 

SLU offers various financial aid options, so investigate scholarship opportunities, graduate assistantships, and loans early. Ensure you have a financial plan in place to cover both tuition and living expenses throughout the program. Applying for external funding might reduce the financial burden and make graduate school more accessible.

Students without a CSD undergraduate degree

Students who have not completed an undergraduate program in speech, language, and hearing but currently hold an undergraduate degree in another area may apply. Admitted non-CSD background students must complete the following leveling courses before progressing to graduate level coursework:

CSD 201, 205, 212, 213, 309, 327, 328, and 415.

Criminal Background Check

Students who have been accepted into the CSD graduate program will be required to complete a criminal background check at their expense as a requirement of Regular Admission status.

Essential Functions and Technical Standards:

Students who have been accepted into the CSD program will be required to meet the Essential Functions and Technical Standards requirements for speech-language pathology.

If you need additional information please contact us at: [email protected]