Why Study Speech-Language-Hearing at KU?
Help people find their voices and improve lives. Begin your journey in a field where communication meets compassion and science.
Transform Lives Through the Science of Communication
Communication is at the heart of human connection, how we understand each other, express ideas, build relationships, and understand the world. At the University of Kansas, you'll join a top-ranked program that prepares you to diagnose, treat, and research communication disorders with expert skill and compassion.
Why Choose KU for Speech-Language-Hearing?
KU's Department of Speech-Language-Hearing and Intercampus Program in Communication Disorders is consistently ranked among the top programs in the United States according to the U.S. News & World Report. Offering rigorous academic training coupled with real-world clinical experience. Students learn from expert faculty who are leaders in research, clinical practice, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
With an intercampus advantage, students receive hands-on experience at both the Schiefelbusch Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic in Lawrence and the KU Medical Center Hearing and Speech Clinic. These clinical environments provide supervised practice across the lifespan, preparing students to work with individuals of all ages and communication needs.
Start Strong as an Undergraduate
From day one, you’ll engage in challenging coursework, clinical observation, and hands-on lab experiences. The SPLH undergraduate degree provides a solid foundation for graduate study and opens doors to careers in:
- Speech-language pathology & audiology
- Neuroscience and medicine
- Education and assistive technology
- Public health and rehabilitation services
Advance with Purpose in Graduate Programs
KU’s graduate offerings prepare students for leadership and clinical excellence. Through the Intercampus Program in Communicative Disorders, students benefit from:
- Diverse clinical experiences on the Lawrence Campus and the KU Medical Center.
- Opportunities to learn in state-of-the-art clinical and research environments.
- Pathways to clinical certification and academic research careers.
Degree programs include:
- Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology (MA-SLP): A two-year program that readies students for clinical practice.
- Accelerated MA-SLP: Earn your undergraduate and master’s degrees in just five years.
- Clinical Doctorates: Two-year Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD) and three-year Doctor of Audiology (AuD) programs.
- PhD Programs: Research-focused paths in speech-language pathology and audiology.
Engage beyond the Classroom
With SPLH learning extends beyond the lectures and observation hours. Students are encouraged to immerse themselves in research, leadership, service, and global experiences that shape both professional skills and personal growth.
Excellence Backed by Support
All programs are accredited by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and the Council of Academic Programs in Communication Sciences and Disorders, ensuring students receive high-quality education that meets professional standards.
Your Future Starts Here
Whether you're starting your journey or advancing your career, KU offers a comprehensive and rewarding educational experience that empowers you to make a lasting impact in the lives of others.