M.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders

About M.S.CSD Program

Students completing the program will graduate with a Master's of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders. We value the unique qualities of faculty, staff, and students in our program, and we strive to create a culture that embraces diversity, inclusion, equity, justice, and belonging. In that line, we serve a unique population in rural Appalachia, improving the communication and quality of life of our neighbors. Our program offers students a variety of clinical sites (e.g., skilled nursing facilities, hospitals, private practice, schools), and students may even have the opportunity to acquire unique placements nationally. (National and international service experiences are also returning to the table for discussion and planning.) We offer several internal scholarships, graduate assistantships, and tuition remissions for exceptional applicants. We believe strongly in the community we have created, and we hope you will consider WCU to earn your master's degree.

Fall 2025 Admission Cycle

The Graduate School is no longer accepting applications for the Fall 2025 admissions cycle.  First round of admissions decisions have been made, and applicants should check their emails to view the decision. Offers of admission should be confirmed by April 15. At that time, the committee will return to the waitilist and make additional offers of admission until the class of 30 is complete.  

The Competitive Application

The competitive application will have the following:

• An overall GPA of 3.5 or higher (4.0 scale) and As/Bs in the six ASHA-required foundational course
• Three letters of recommendation (at least two from former professors; no personal references)
• Completion of a minimum 25 hours of observation in a variety of settings or with a variety of clinical populations
• Personal statement that demonstrates effective professional writing and highlights the unique qualities that you bring to our program and the profession
• The GRE is not a required component of our application

Academic Tracks

At WCU, we appreciate the value of diverse educational backgrounds and professional experiences. For this reason, we offer two academic tracks: Traditional and Leveler. In the application process, you will be expected to select one track to which you are committing. Use the decision chart to find the best fit for you. If you match the leveler track at present, please reach out to learn about the distance education prerequisite course sequence offered through our department.  Course Sequence for Traditional and Leveler Tracks

How to Apply

Step 1: Complete Western Carolina University's Graduate School application. (We do not require or accept applications submitted in external application platforms. All materials must be submitted through the Graduate School's application system.)

Step 2: Request official transcripts from institutions through which college-level academic credit was received.

Step 3: Select and submit the names of those individuals providing letters of recommendation on your behalf.

Special Considerations

Speech Language Pathology practice requires certain aptitude, abilities, and skills to ensure clinician and client success and safety. Students accepted into the program must attest to meeting these core functions.

Information for International Applicants

Citizens of other countries, whose degrees are not from U.S. institutions, must have their transcripts and full course descriptions translated into English and evaluated by a recognized credential evaluation service such as World Education Services. Official scores on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the academic version of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) are required for applicants from countries where English is not the primary language. Find additional information about admissions criteria at the WCU Graduate School.

Questions about the Program?

If you have questions about programs in CSD, contact Dr. Leigh Odom at kmodom@wcu.edu

Virtual Open House

Tuesday, May 6, 2025: 5-6:30 p.m.

Join us at one of our upcoming virtual Graduate School Open House events on Zoom! You'll have the opportunity to learn more about Western Carolina University,  understand the Graduate School application process, and meet key program representatives.

Register Today

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