The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders offers both Master's and Doctoral degree programs in speech-language pathology. Our Master of Science (M.S.) program includes three pathways: 1) a traditional two-year graduate program, 2) a three-year program for those without a bachelor’s degree in communication disorders or the speech and hearing sciences, and 3) an accelerated five-year program that combines undergraduate and graduate coursework. All tracks enable students to fulfill the clinical practicum requirements for the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) awarded by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
We also offer a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in speech-language pathology. The doctoral curriculum has been recently updated to reflect current theory and research in the field. Ph.D. candidates may choose to complete a traditional dissertation or fulfill the research requirement through three peer-reviewed journal articles.
Howard University is an ideal place to pursue graduate education in speech-language pathology because of our deep commitment to cultural and linguistic diversity, which is infused throughout the curriculum. Our department is nationally recognized for its outstanding faculty, comprehensive clinical training, rigorous academic preparation, and focus on multiculturalism. Alumni of our doctoral program are recognized leaders across academia, research institutions, government, healthcare, and professional organizations, including ASHA.
Our location in Washington, D.C., offers unparalleled opportunities. Students have access to diverse clinical and research experiences across the Howard University Health Sciences complex, including the University Speech and Hearing Clinic and Howard University Hospital, as well as placements in regional schools, government agencies, and healthcare institutions across the Washington Metropolitan Area.
With high graduation, Praxis pass, and employment rates, our program provides students with a strong scientific foundation, individualized mentoring, and the support needed to thrive in both clinical and research settings.
The MET Building
300 Bryant Street, NW
Room 101-C4
Washington D.C. 20001
Chair: Alaina Davis, Ph.D.
email: alaina.davis@howard.edu
The Master of Science (M.S.) degree program in speech-language pathology at Howard University is a residential program that is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, 2200 Research Boulevard #310, Rockville, Maryland 20850, 800-498-2071 or 301-296-5700.
The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders is rooted in multicultural teaching and training. The department’s mission is to address the increasing need to provide the profession of speech-language pathology with culturally, clinically, and academically trained and competent researchers at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The department’s curriculum integrates experiential and interdisciplinary culturally and linguistically diverse research and teaching. To support the mission and vision of the University, the department will continue its legacy of being an active voice for the underrepresented and underserved.
The Howard University Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Strategic Plan is designed to provide an exceptional educational experience to graduate and professional level students with high academic standing and potential with emphasis on educational opportunities for black students: globally, nationally or in the DC Metropolitan area.
This strategic plan was created with contribution from faculty, students, staff, and members of our broader community (including alumni) and sets the forward focused trajectory of the department's future and identifies five Core Values and six specific goals that we will work to accomplish in the next five years.
Guided by this plan, our efforts will focus on:
Welcome to the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Howard University, where excellence, cultural pride, and service to humanity intersect. As Chair, I am honored to lead a department grounded in the legacy of Howard—committed to advancing equity for persons with communication, cognitive, and swallowing disorders. Our goal is to develop leaders who are prepared to serve diverse communities across the globe.
Our program stands at the forefront of research, education, and clinical practice, offering rigorous academic training shaped by a deep understanding of the cultural, linguistic, and societal contexts that influence communication and its disorders. Our expert faculty take pride in preparing students who are not only skilled clinicians and scholars, but also advocates—culturally competent, culturally sensitive, and culturally responsive practitioners who carry Howard’s mission forward.
In the spirit of truth and service, our faculty and students engage in transformative work that uplifts communities and drives innovation in the field. Whether through groundbreaking research, community-based service, or global health initiatives, our graduates leave Howard equipped to make an impact wherever they go.
Thank you for exploring our program. We invite you to join us in this important work—to lead, to serve, and to continue shaping the future of communication sciences and disorders.
Warm regards,
Alaina S. Davis, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, CBIST
Associate Professor and Chair
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Cathy Hughes School of Communications
Howard University
The Howard University Speech and Hearing Clinic provides speech, language, and hearing services for individuals of all ages with a variety of communication disorders
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| 3-Year Average | Praxis Pass Rate ( 3 year average) | # Taken |
|---|---|---|
| 2024-2025 | 85% | 6 |
| 2023-2024 | 96% | 2 |
| 2022-2023 | 96% | 8 |
| Year | Number Completing Program | Number Not Completing Program | Number Completing Later Than On Time | 3-year Average Completion Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-2025 | 14 | 0 | 0 | 97% |
| 2023-2024 | 12 | 1 | 0 | 97% |
| 2022-2023 | 11 | 0 | 0 | 100% |
Ready to embark on a rewarding journey through our Masters of Science program? Applicants to the master’s program are admitted for the Fall semester only. Learn what it takes to be accepted into the Masters Science program.
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The National Student Speech Language Hearing Association at Howard University (HU-NSSLHA) is a national student organization for pre-professionals studying communication sciences and disorders (CSD) aspiring towards careers in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology. This chapter has a stellar membership and enables students in speech and hearing science to:
Fellowship and network with students and professionals with similar interests
Gather information about specialized topics from guest speakers
Gain valuable knowledge about academic advising, scholarships, and application process for doctoral studies
Explore the robust careers of Speech Language Pathology and Audiology.
Participate in student-led and professional conferences
The Howard University Chapter of the National Student Speech Language and Hearing Association.
Contact
Instagram: hu_nsslha
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