Eligibility and Requirements

Before you apply for the clinical doctoral program in speech-language pathology, ensure you have the necessary qualifications and experiences:

Graduate Degree

Admission to the speech-language pathology doctoral program requires a master’s degree in speech-language pathology from a program accredited by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.

Prior Clinical Experience

You should have at least three years of professional clinical experience before applying to this program.

Grade Point Average

A cumulative grade point average of a minimum of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is required on prior college coursework. Applicants with higher GPAs may receive admissions preference.

CCC-SLP certification

You must provide verification of current Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.

Vaccine and Clinical Site Requirements

Matriculated students will need to provide an immunization profile prior to participating in curricular and/or clinical experiences required by the program. Please read the information found at the bottom of the program's curriculum page and be sure that you understand these requirements.

Background Check

The Joint Commission requires all incoming students provide the school with a background check report. A one-time fee must be paid by the student directly to the company performing the background investigation.

Students will be asked to provide information and make the payment following official acceptance into the program. For more information, please see the School of Health Professions background check instructions.

International Students

An applicant is considered an international student if the individual requires a visa, currently resides in the U.S. with non-immigrant status, or currently resides in the U.S. while applying for permanent residency. Additional requirements and documentation, such as proof of English language proficiency, are required for international students to become eligible for KU programs. Please review the information for international students before applying.

English Language Proficiency

All applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency.   

For more on English language requirements, including minimum test scores, please see theKU Medical Center Office of International Programs. Test scores must be original forms sent directly from the administering agency to KU Medical Center. Photocopies will not be accepted. Use ETS school code: 6895.