Mississippi University for Women

Speech-Language Pathology Program

Oral Communication Proficiency Policy

Speech-language pathologists working with individuals who have communication disorders must demonstrate excellent oral communication skills. Speech-language pathology students are expected to model all aspects of Standard American English including phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, pragmatics, and suprasegmental aspects of speech. Additionally, students must speak in a clearly intelligible manner during spontaneous conversation, and produce all consonant and vowel phonemes of English accurately, at the sentence level, prior to beginning the clinical practicum experience.

Speech-Language-Hearing Screening

All graduate students who are admitted into the Speech-Language Pathology Program will be screened for speech, language, and hearing difficulties during the first fall term of their enrollment. Screening will be conducted by second-year graduate students under the supervision of licensed and ASHA-certified faculty in the Speech and Hearing Center. Additionally, faculty members may identify concerns regarding a student’s communication skills at any time. Students identified by either means are encouraged to have a speech-language evaluation either at the MUW Speech and Hearing Center or at a facility of the student’s choice. In the event therapy is recommended, the student will be encouraged to enroll in therapy at the MUW Speech and Hearing Center or at a facility of the student’s choice. Evaluation and/or therapy through the MUW Speech and Hearing Center will be provided at no cost. All costs incurred for services provided through another facility will be responsibility of the student. The student must demonstrate skills as specified in the Oral Communication Proficiency Policy prior to enrollment in any clinical practicum.