You’re a practicing speech-language pathologist driven to make a bigger impact in the profession. Perhaps you seek a master clinician or senior administrator role — or to shape the next generation of practitioners. Or dive deeper into an SLP specialization you’re passionate about pursuing.
Your Nova Southeastern University Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology program expands your depth and breadth of expertise through a variety of forums, readying you to land those higher-level, higher-impact roles you seek.
Join us to learn about the additional perks of being a Shark by attending our virtual open house!
Hybrid program: online study combined with a one-week Winter Research Institute in Florida
SLP.D. program starts once per year every fall semester in August.
Visit the Tuition and Fees page for more information.
The Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLP.D.) degree program totals 53 credit hours.
The Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLP.D.) program was established in 1996 at Nova Southeastern University. At that time, the program had the distinction of being the first clinical doctorate degree program for speech-language pathologists in the United States. Over the years, the program has earned the prominent reputation as one of the most recognized clinical degree doctorate programs in the country.
Alumni of the SLP.D. program are located in a variety of settings across the country. These alumni hold higher-level leadership positions which include department chairs, program directors, hospital clinical managers, rehabilitation directors, special education administrators and board certified specialists. In addition, in the field of speech language pathology, our alumni have achieved significant professional accolades at the state and national levels including being honored as fellows of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
Coursework for the SLP.D. program represents an innovative, practical, and realistic approach to doctoral studies. Students matriculate through the program following either a dissertation track or the non-dissertation track.
Email Brian Tachick, your Admissions Counselor, or call him at (954) 262-7496.
FOR NON-NATIVE ENGLISH SPEAKERS
Applicants whose native language is not English may be required to demonstrate English proficiency. The standardized tests listed below satisfy the university's English requirement for non-native English speakers. Test results must be sent directly from the testing agency to NSU's Enrollment Processing Services (EPS):
Proof of English language competency can also be in the form of a degree at a regionally accredited U.S. college or university.
FOR NON-NATIVE ENGLISH SPEAKERS
International students living in the United States must present verification of student visa or residency status.
(updated: 7.6.2023)
A program orientation will be included in the first course, SLP.D 7000 Technology and Instrumentation in Communication Sciences. The purpose of the orientation portion of the course is to provide students with the information needed to successfully begin and complete the SLP.D. program.
Courses in the Major (53 credits minimum)
Year 1 - Dissertation Track/Non-Dissertation Track
| Fall Year One |
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| Course | Course Description | Curriculum Track | Credits |
| SLPD 7000 Technology and Instrumentation in Communication Sciences / | This course provides candidates with the SLP.D. program’s orientation. This orientation includes an overview of the distinct areas related to doctoral studies: applied research, distance library, student services, and technology. In addition, this course presents advanced applications in the use of computer hardware and software in communication sciences and disorders. Doctoral candidates will receive hands-on experience in the use, application, and configuration of software for distance-learning technologies for management of clients and for business issues. | Year 1- Dissertation Year 1- Non-Dissertation | 2 |
| SLPD 7040 Supervision | The identification and analysis of the processes of supervision along the continuum of supervision from support personnel to peer will be examined. Topics will include planning and executing the supervisory conference, data collection procedures, and evaluation. The research in the field of supervision will be examined with an emphasis on practical application. The impact of cultural diversity on supervision will be addressed. | Year 1- Dissertation Year 1- Non-Dissertation | 3 |
| SLPD 7075 Counseling | The emphasis of this course is on counseling approaches for use with clients with communication disorders and/or their families. Doctoral candidates will explore theories of counseling with an emphasis on management of individuals with communication disorders and their families. Doctoral candidates will experiment with different approaches to interacting with clients and their families individually and in groups. The cultural impact on the counseling process will be addressed. Doctoral candidates will participate in roleplay situations for use with clients demonstrating a variety of audiologic and/or speech-language problems. | Year 1- Dissertation Year 1- Non-Dissertation | 2 |
| Winter Year One |
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| SLPD 7041 Clinical Education and Teaching in Higher Education | Fundamental principles of clinical education, teaching, and learning styles are covered, so that the practitioners can learn to be effective while supervising graduate students in clinical settings or teaching students in the online environment. This course is intended to develop the doctoral candidates’ consultation, supervision competencies, and teaching skills. | Year 1- Dissertation Year 1- Non-Dissertation | 3 |
| SLPD 7410 Qualitative Research Design | This course is designed to prepare students to conduct research in their discipline. The focus of this course is to introduce students to qualitative research methods of inquiry, and to provide the knowledge and skill competencies needed to critique, design and conduct qualitative research. Phenomenological inquiry, grounded theory, ethnography, and other commonly used approaches to qualitative research will be examined. | Year 1- Dissertation | 3 |
| SLPD 7411 Quantitative Research Design | This course will provide students with a fundamental understanding of the basic methods and approaches used in health-related research. A major emphasis of the course will be on the conceptualization and design of research studies. The course will cover ethics, formulation of research questions, study design, reliability, validity, sampling, measurement, and interpretation of research findings. It will prepare students to critically evaluate published literature and to design sound research studies. The course will be both theoretical and applied. | Year 1- Dissertation | 3 |
| SLPD 8082 Interprofessional Teams and Teaming | This course examines the dynamics and complexities of interprofessional teams in various healthcare and community settings. Doctoral students will explore theoretical frameworks, research evidence, and best practices for effective teamwork, communication, collaboration, and conflict resolution. They will also gain practical skills for leading and participating in interprofessional teams through case studies, simulations, and collaborative projects. In addition, this course will include Team Strategies & Tools to Enhance Performance & Patient Safety (TeamSTEPPS) Master training | Year 1- Non-Dissertation | 3 |
| Summer Year One |
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| SLPD 7080 Business Management | Doctoral candidates will learn basic management principles as they relate to the administration of speech-language practice in a variety of settings. Legal and ethical issues in practice management will be covered. Doctoral candidates preparing for personal and professional growth will explore the management skills essential to developing and devising a customer-focused business plan or program design. | Year 1- Dissertation Year 1- Non-Dissertation | 2 |
| SLPD 7082 Multicultural Populations and Global Studies | The purpose of this course is to enhance the development of cultural competency skills and increase awareness of cultural responsiveness practices. This course is designed to provide doctoral candidates with current research and literature on cultural and linguistic variation as it relates to the identification, diagnosis, and treatment of communication disorders in culturally and linguistically diverse populations. | Year 1- Dissertation Year 1- Non-Dissertation | 2 |
| SLPD 8083 Innovation in Interprofessional Leadership | This course explores the dynamic landscape of interprofessional leadership, equipping you with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking necessary to drive innovation in healthcare and other complex settings. Students will engage in critical reflection, challenge assumptions, and propose solutions to complex challenges in interprofessional leadership. | Year 1- Non-Dissertation | 3 |
| Seminar in Special Interest Dissertation track - Student chooses one: |
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| SLPD 7210 Advanced Seminar in Pediatric Development | Theories and application of cognitive, social, psychological, and cultural development of children and adolescents will be examined. Current thinking will augment classical theory. Application of current thinking as well as therapeutic, teaching, and care-giving practices stemming from these ideas will be stressed. | Year 1- Dissertation
| 3 |
| SLPD 7220 Advanced Seminar in Voice and Swallowing | This course is a doctoral-level course exploring best practices in voice and swallowing disorders. It is not designed to develop voice and swallowing clinicians, nor is it designed to impart the full breadth of information available in the areas of voice and swallowing disorders. Rather, this course is designed to enhance the students’ comprehension of the specialty areas of voice and swallowing disorders that were taught to them at the master’s degree level, expand their knowledge base of best practices in voice and swallowing disorders, and develop a working sense of the scope of practice in voice and swallowing. | Year 1- Dissertation
| 3 |
| SLPD 7600 Grant Writing and Publication | This course is designed to provide writing experiences that prepare the learner for manuscript and grant proposal submissions. This introductory experience into the grant process from proposal to funding to management will include project management, funding sources, and funding challenges. Other course requirements include a research proposal (manuscript) that is ready for submission for publication and development of a dissertation proposal. | Year 1- Dissertation
| 3 |
Year 2 - Dissertation Track/Non-Dissertation Track
| FALL Year Two |
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| Course | Course Description | Curriculum Track | Credits |
| SLPD 7200 Neuroscience/Neuropsychology and Communication Disorders | Neurological foundations of speech-language and cognitive disorders will be presented. The emphasis will be a study of neuropathological conditions and the speech-language disorders that result from these conditions. | Year 2 - Dissertation Year 2 – Non-Dissertation | 3 |
| SLPD 8966 Applied Dissertation Concept Paper | The content of Applied Dissertation Service I—Concept Paper focuses on developing a preliminary literature review and formulating research questions. The committee chair and committee member roles are discussed. This service will culminate in the completion of the first corresponding benchmark: the concept paper. Credit for this seminar will be assigned following approval of the concept paper. | Year 2 - Dissertation
| 3 |
| SLPD 7300 Biostatistics I | This course presents statistical methods commonly used in the analysis of health research data. Topics include descriptive statistics, basic concepts of probability, statistical inference, analysis of variance, correlation, regression, and nonparametric statistical techniques. Emphasis is on understanding and applying statistical concepts and techniques to research data within the health sciences. | Year 2 - Dissertation | 3 |
| SLPD 7222 Research Ethics | This course introduces students to ethics concepts as they apply to questions and challenges in conducting research with human subjects. The aim is to increase students’ awareness of, and ability to reason through, ethical issues that arise in human subjects research. The course will draw upon historical examples, codes, declarations, and other sources of ethical guidance, including discussions of contemporary controversies in human subjects research. | Year 2 – Non-Dissertation | 3 |
| SLPD 8084 Advancing Collaborative Health Care | This doctorate course explores research, innovative practices, and emerging trends in collaborative healthcare. Students will investigate the complexities of healthcare systems, analyze interprofessional collaboration (IPC) models, and explore strategies to advance teamwork for improved patient outcomes, population health, and system-wide efficiency. They will gain critical thinking skills, analyze research, and propose solutions to current challenges in collaborative care delivery. | Year 2 – Non-Dissertation | 3 |
| Winter Year Two |
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| SLPD 7060 Genetics | This course will provide students with an overview of genetics. Doctoral candidates will be exposed to a general overview of genetics and investigate the spectrum of genetic syndromes common to clients with communication disorders. Doctoral candidates will study the embryologic development with an emphasis on normal and abnormal or interrupted development at various stages and outcomes. | Year 2 - Dissertation Year 2 - Non-Dissertation | 2 |
| SLPD 7070 Pharmacology | The goal of this course is to introduce the doctoral candidates to the advanced science and clinical pharmacology that impacts the practice of speech-language pathology. The clinical use and understanding of the pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and the potential positive and negative outcomes of medications will be emphasized. Lectures, videos, and hands-on learning activities will be explored during the course. Doctoral candidates will learn the general principles of drug action, particularly as related to communicative function. The classes of drugs used in clinical practice will be examined with emphasis on activity, mode of action, side effects, toxicity, and drug interactions. Case studies in the fields of speech-language pathology and audiology will be presented. | Year 2 - Dissertation Year 2 - Non-Dissertation | 2 |
| SLPD 8820 Telehealth Concepts, Applications and Future Trends | Telehealth involves any technology-medicated communication that facilitates health services, such as the exchange of information in coordinating patient care. This course explores the foundational concepts that supports telehealth within a health care environment, including information privacy and security standards that support health information systems and technologies. Students will examine the current applications of telehealth and propose recommendations that resolve common issues within clinical settings. The course has an emphasis on the legal and ethical considerations with implementing telehealth programs. Furthermore, students will appraise future trends by reviewing current telehealth products and anticipating upcoming innovations or practices. | Year 2 - Non-Dissertation | 4 |
| Seminar in Research Elective Dissertation track- Student chooses one: |
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| SLPD 7310 Biostatistics II | The focus of this course is on advanced and multivariate statistical methods. Topics include data screening, multiple regression, multivariate analysis of variance and covariance, multilevel modeling, and related statistical procedures. Emphasis is on understanding and applying statistical concepts and techniques to research data, as well as developing the ability to critically analyze research methods used in the scientific literature. Students will focus on understanding and applying statistical concepts and techniques to research data within the health sciences. | Year 2 – Dissertation | 3 |
| SLPD 7700 Test and Measurement | This course provides a foundation in the basic principles of measurement with a focus on how to assess and control for error through research design methods and statistical analysis. Students will explore test construction and methods and parsimonious data analysis methods to develop an understanding for designing instruments and assessment tools. Topics in the course will also include survey implementation, sampling, data collection, follow-up, and ethical issues. A focus on issues specific to measurement error in the medical science will be examined throughout the course as well | Year 2 – Dissertation | 3 |
| Summer Year Two |
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| SLPD 8825 Technological Infrastructures of Telehealth | The health industry's technology has been rapidly evolving--with telehealth placed as an area of value and growth potential. Telehealth, which involves the use of any technology in providing clinical services, requires health professionals to develop strong skills in information systems and technologies. This course introduces aspects of technology management relevant to telehealth practices. Students will discover ways in which data is captured, transmitted, stored, and retrieved. Students will learn how to uphold information security and privacy through contemporary approaches in technology management. The course presents technical concepts from a leadership perspective; learners will be able to determine the types of skills used by technology experts in the management of telehealth services or programs. Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to apply telehealth approaches across various areas of medicine and different healthcare organizations. | Year 2 - Non-Dissertation | 4 |
| SLPD 8835 Telepresence | Telehealth involves any technology mediated communication that facilitates health services, such as the exchange of information in coordinating patient care. Progress with telehealth development is progressing rapidly, and health care professionals who are tele practitioners require a skill set specific to the delivery of health care via technology. This course explores the delivery of health care via technology and examines the considerations necessary for telehealth encounters and delivery. The course focuses on telepresence, and special considerations in the use of technology for health care delivery. Upon completion of the course, students will be able to apply concepts to telehealth encounters that promote positive patient encounters and outcomes when utilizing a telehealth platform for delivery of care. | Year 2 - Non-Dissertation | 4 |
| SLPD 8967 Applied Dissertation Proposal | The content of Applied Dissertation Service II—Dissertation Proposal emphasizes the formulation and writing of the dissertation proposal and the process for Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval. Methodology and content for each of the proposal chapters are defined, including a thorough discussion of the role of the literature review to support or refute the dissertation topic. This service, focusing on scientific inquiry, will culminate in the completion of the second corresponding benchmark: the applied dissertation proposal. Credit for this seminar will be assigned following approval of the proposal. | Year 2 -Dissertation | 4 |
| Seminar in Special Interest Dissertation track - Student chooses one: |
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| SLPD 7095 Selected Topic | Advanced study of selected theoretical clinical, or professional issues in Speech Language Pathology or Audiology (elective-may be taken for credit, CEU, or recertification). | Year 2 - Dissertation
| 3 |
| SLPD 7250 Advanced Seminar in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) | This study area provides a discussion of the critical issues in augmentative and alternative communication and assistive technology, with a focus on self-determination, family-centered practices, and AAC outcomes. Students will gain experience with non-electronic communication displays, various input devices, and low-tech communication devices, as well as high-technology voice output communication aids. Current issues in ethics, funding, and the impact of culture on AAC are presented. A discussion of recent trends and future needs, as well as strategies for keeping up with new technology and a rapidly expanding knowledge base will be included. | Year 2 - Dissertation
| 3 |
| SLPD 7600 Grant Writing and Publication | This course is designed to provide writing experiences that prepare the learner for manuscript and grant proposal submissions. This introductory experience into the grant process from proposal to funding to management will include project management, funding sources, and funding challenges. Other course requirements include a research proposal (manuscript) that is ready for submission for publication and development of a dissertation proposal. | Year 2 - Dissertation
| 3 |
Year 3 - Dissertation Track/Non-Dissertation Track
| FALL Year Three |
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| Course | Course Description | Curriculum Track | Credits |
| SLPD 7030 Gerontology | This course will provide students with an overview of gerontology. The older adult population often presents with complex, interacting issues. Thus, a holistic approach to patient care will be considered, encompassing biological, social, psychological, and cultural aspects related to aging. Analysis of day-to-day functioning of the aging patient will be covered. An emphasis will be placed on differentiation between normal aging processes and pathological changes related to speech pathology and communication disorders. Learning will take place via class lectures and discussions, experimental exercises, written case studies, student presentations, and panel discussions. Discussion of ethical issues related to aging will augment the learning process. | Year 3 - Dissertation Year 3 - Non-Dissertation | 2 |
| SLPD 7081 Leadership and Advocacy in Speech-Language Pathology | Doctoral candidates will learn basic leadership principles as they relate to the conduct of speech-language or audiology practice in a variety of settings. Legal and ethical issues in practice leadership will be covered. Doctoral candidates preparing for personal and professional development assess the skills and behaviors of the leader or change agent in terms of their own potential for growth and future leadership positions. The course will critically analyze the differences between advocacy, leadership and management. | Year 3 - Dissertation Year 3 - Non-Dissertation | 3 |
| Required Dissertation Support Services Dissertation track Student: |
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| SLPD 8090 Applied Dissertation Services I* | The applied dissertation is a detailed, accurate, and cohesive account of a scholarly investigation designed to answer a research question directed toward the improvement of practice in the field of speech-language pathology. Research is distinguished by a theory-to-practice model encompassing a diversity of disciplines. Each student is assigned a faculty committee to facilitate and supervise the process. This course provides dissertation services for students who are entering the 25th month of the doctoral program. | Year 3 - Dissertation
| 1 |
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| SLPD 8968 Applied Dissertation Final Report | Applied Dissertation Service III involves data collection and implementation, the applied dissertation (i.e., final report), and the final approval process. Content and format issues, as well as recommendations for further research, are highlighted. Dissemination of the dissertation and possible outlets for publication are covered. This service will culminate in the completion of the third corresponding benchmark: the applied dissertation. Credits for this service will be assigned following approval of the applied dissertation. | Year 3 - Dissertation
| 3 |
| SLPD 8830 Strategic Planning for Telehealth Programs and Services | Telehealth services utilize health information technologies and systems to facilitate healthcare operations, clinical procedures, and the exchange of health information. Healthcare organizations have found it necessary to coordinate the rapid growth of telehealth / telemedicine services by building partnerships, exploring business ventures, and launching comprehensive programs. This course examines telehealth strategies and initiatives through case study analysis and class discussions. Students will practice “hands- on” management of telehealth technologies, systems, and operations. Throughout the course, students will engage in a comprehensive strategic planning process—honing professional communication, teamwork, and customer service skills. | Year 3 - Non-Dissertation | 4 |
| Summer Year Three |
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| SLPD 8091 Applied Dissertation Services II** | This course provides dissertation services for continuing doctoral students previously enrolled in SLPD 8090. SLPD 8091 is also for currently enrolled students who are entering the 37th month of the doctoral program. Students are responsible for registering for SLPD 8091 each semester until the completion of the applied dissertation. | Year 3 - Dissertation
| 1 |
Additional Electives
Additional electives are available through the PCHCS as Shared Core Courses. Prior approval must be granted by the SLPD program director for registration in the PCHCS Shared Core Courses.
| Course Number | Course Title and Description |
| SLPD 7500 | Philosophy of Science (3 credits) |
Continuing Dissertation Services
If the program is not completed within 24 months, continuing dissertation services will begin on the 25th month. Students will be automatically enrolled in ADS 8090 between the 25th and 36th months of their program and must enroll themselves in ADS 8091 beginning the 37th month of their program in order to receive dissertation services from their committee chair and or the applied research center.
| Course Number | Course Title & Description |
|---|---|
| SLPD 8090 | Applied Dissertation Services I Applied Dissertation Services I is continuing dissertation services for students who complete all of their doctoral coursework during the first 24 months of the program. Students are automatically enrolled in SLPD 8090. No charges will apply for services. Prerequisite/s: None. |
| SLPD 8091 | Applied Dissertation Services II Dissertation services for continuing doctoral students previously enrolled in SLPD 8090 who did not complete the applied dissertation. SLPD 8091 is also for currently enrolled students who are entering the 37th month of the doctoral program. Students are responsible for registering for SLPD 8091. Service fees will apply. Prerequisite/s: None. |
Transfer of Credits
A maximum of nine (9) semester hours of post-master’s degree, doctoral-level credit, earned from a regionally accredited institution within the past 5 years, will be considered toward meeting the doctoral program's degree requirements. Grades for courses transferred must be at the grade of A or B or equivalent. Acceptance of transfer credit is not guaranteed.
Applicants who wish to request evaluation no prior coursework for consideration as transfer credit should note this on their application, send course descriptions, and request that official transcripts be sent to the Speech-Language Pathology Department. Current doctoral candidates should request and receive prior written approval from the chair of the speech-language pathology department before enrolling in any other institution's courses that are intended to be submitted for transfer credit. This request should include an explanation and related course description(s).
Credits earned at Nova Southeastern University are transferable at the discretion of the receiving college, university, and/or program. Students who wish to transfer credits from NSU should contact the admissions office or program of the receiving school for information.
The SLP.D. program is a hybrid (face-to-face/online) program that represents an innovative, practical, and realistic approach to doctoral studies. A new cohort is developed once a year that consists of 5 to 10 speech-language pathology professionals who live and work in a variety of settings. The cohort follows a program of study for matriculation through the courses. The cohort is intended to serve as both an administrative and educational vehicle for the program. The cohort format provides opportunities for sharing the expertise of individual cohort members and fosters professional dialogue.
The hybrid (face-to-face/online) format is provided to each cohort which includes formal instruction as delivered through hybrid (face-to-face/online), online only and one live summer residency. The hybrid instructors teach from the Fort Lauderdale main campus. For these hybrid classes, students are provided with software which allows them to learn and view (instructor/class) online. Students participate in faculty-directed independent reading and writing assignments between class meetings.
During the second semester of the program, all students are required to attend the Winter Research Institute in Florida.
Computer Requirements
All doctoral students are expected to have a computer with Microsoft PowerPoint, Word, and Excel software. Some programs used to augment coursework require a computer with the Windows operating system.
A maximum of (9) nine semester hours of post-master’s degree, doctoral-level credit, earned from a regionally accredited institution within the past 5 years, will be considered toward meeting the doctoral program's degree requirements. Grades for courses transferred must be at the grade of A or B or equivalent. Acceptance of transfer credit is not guaranteed.
Applicants who wish to request evaluation no prior coursework for consideration as transfer credit should note this on their application, send course descriptions, and request that official transcripts be sent to the Speech-Language Pathology Department. Current doctoral candidates should request and receive prior written approval from the chair of the speech-language pathology department before enrolling in any other institution's courses that are intended to be submitted for transfer credit. This request should include an explanation and related course description(s).
Credits earned a Nova Southeastern University are transferable at the discretion of the receiving college, university, and/or program. Students who wish to transfer credits from NSU should contact the admissions office or program of the receiving school for information.
