Accelerated Master’s in Communication Sciences and Disorders/Speech-Language Pathology 

The Accelerated Master’s in Communication Sciences and Disorders/Speech-Language Pathology is a streamlined academic opportunity for students pursuing an advanced degree in speech-language pathology. The 3+2-degree pathway allows students to complete a bachelor’s degree in three years followed by a two-year master’s degree, providing a fast-track route to an advanced qualification. 

“Our department is always looking for ways to help students succeed and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their education,” said Michael Cannizzaro, associate professor and chair of the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. “There is also a great need for speech-language pathologists with graduate level training - especially in Vermont - and we are working to meet those needs.” 

The 3+2 pathway offers significant advantages, including reduced time and costs compared to traditional graduate education. Students benefit from early exposure to graduate-level coursework, research opportunities, and mentorship from faculty in the on-campus Eleanor M. Luse Clinic, setting them up for success in competitive job markets. 

“With this pathway, students can speed up their time to an advanced degree and reduce overall educational costs on their way to a very rewarding career in speech-language pathology,” said Dr. Cannizzaro.

Students indicate interest in the 3+2 program when applying for the B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders. They must complete the required courses by their junior year and then apply for the master's program at the end of that semester. If accepted and all admission and academic requirements are met, they start the master's program in the fall of their senior year. During their fourth year, students take master's-level speech-language pathology courses as electives while finishing their bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and disorders (CSD). After graduation, the M.S.-SLP becomes their focus for the fifth year. They pay tuition as graduate students and graduate with the M.S.-SLP after completing this final year.

Students in the accelerated program at CNHS get academic help from the Office of Student Services. After their sophomore year, they’ll be assigned to a faculty advisor. CNHS will also hold group advising sessions each semester for the 3+2 program, with faculty and staff available for support and questions.

To join the accelerated program, students need a high school GPA of 3.25 or higher, or 12 college credits with a 3.25 GPA. After enrolling, they must keep a 3.0 overall GPA and a 3.0 in Communication Sciences and Disorders courses. Additional program details will be shared in faculty sessions for potential students throughout the year.

To learn more, contact Michael S. Cannizzaro, Ph.D., CCC-SLP.

Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLP-A) Undergraduate Certificate 

The SLP-A Certificate is a new option available to undergraduate students that meets American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) guidelines for certification as a speech-language pathology assistant. The program offers 22 credits across 7 courses: 16 academic and 6 clinical. The certificate track also includes 25 hours of observation and 100 hours of supervised practice, leading to eligibility for employment as a speech-language pathology assistant upon graduation. 

“There’s a shortage of qualified speech-language pathology professionals nationwide,” said Darin Woolpert, senior lecturer and program director for the SLP-A Certificate and SLP Pre-Master’s programs. “This program gives the background and training necessary to meet the American Speech-Language Hearing Association’s requirements for certification as a speech-language pathology assistant (SLP-A). Typically, SLP-As work with individuals with speech and language disorders in schools, but they’re also able to work in hospitals, outpatient rehab settings, and private clinics.”

To learn more, contact Darin Woolpert, Ph.D., CCC-SLP.