Programs of Study

M.S. in Speech and Hearing Sciences

The M.S. degree program has been offered at UNC-CH for 30 years and is consistently rated among the top graduate speech and hearing programs in the nation. Two tracks exist within the M.S. programs

The clinical track is a 60 semester hour program combining clinical experiences with a comprehensive curriculum. The program is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation for Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, and graduates will be eligible for ASHA certification and North Carolina state licensure.
The need for sensitive and skilled speech-language pathologists, educated to provide clinical services under evidence based practice guidelines is greater than ever because of our nation's rapidly growing multicultural population. The Division of Speech and Hearing Sciences seeks individuals who want to work with a variety of clinical populations, including people from other cultures, the unserved, and those who are underserved. The Speech and Hearing Sciences curriculum provides an environment where learning is based on classroom, laboratory, and clinical experiences.

The non-clinical track is designed for those students who do not plan to pursue eligibility for ASHA certification. Students from other countries which do not require or even recognize certification by the American Speech Language and Hearing Association are often interested in the non-clinical track. Students who plan a career in research or industry may also select this program of study.

Clinical Doctorate in Audiology

The Au.D. program is designed to provide a comprehensive graduate experience for students who wish to pursue a career in clinical audiology. The program is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation for Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, and graduates will be eligible for ASHA and ABA certification and North Carolina state licensure.

Ph.D. in Speech and Hearing Sciences

The Ph.D. program is designed to prepare future scholars who will provide leadership and contribute to the knowledge base in speech, language, and hearing sciences. The program offers direct training in research, teaching, technology, and service delivery.

First Years Certificate in Auditory Learning

FIRST YEARS targets its certificate courses to professionals interested in expanding their knowledge and skills related to auditory-oral and auditory-verbal approaches to therapy and intervention. Topics include: speech acoustics, anatomy and physiology of the auditory system, audiological management, hearing aids, cochlear implants, classroom amplification, development of spoken language and speech production, and emerging literacy. The course readings, instruction by our faculty experts, online discussion, group and individual projects and exercises -- plus mentored practicum experiences in early intervention, educational, and clinical settings -- combine to make FIRST YEARS a unique online learning experience.