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.
1250 U St NW, Fl 2
Washington DC 20009
Chair: Alaina Davis, Ph.D. CCC-SLP
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 Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders (COSD) at Howard University has a distinguished legacy of leadership in culturally responsive education, research, and clinical service. Rooted in the University’s mission to develop scholars and professionals who address global human challenges, COSD’s 2026–2030 Strategic Plan outlines a forward-focused framework to advance academic excellence, research innovation, community impact, and student success.
Overview of Mission and Vision
COSD is committed to preparing culturally, clinically, and academically trained speech-language pathology professionals and researchers who serve underrepresented and underserved communities. The department envisions cultivating innovative, culturally responsive leaders who transform equity in research and clinical care to dismantle systemic barriers affecting global communities.
Strategic Priorities (2026–2030)
The COSD Strategic Plan is organized around four goals aligned with Howard University’s strategic pillars.
GOAL 1: Curriculum & Training Excellence
Strengthen academic and clinical curricula through continuous evaluation, evidence-based updates, and culturally responsive, interprofessional training.
Objectives:
GOAL 2: Research & Scholarly Growth
Increase faculty and student research productivity through structured mentoring, grant-writing support, and interdisciplinary collaborations.
Objectives:
GOAL 3: Community & Clinical Impact
Strengthen COSD’s community presence through expanded clinics, partnerships to address communication health disparities.
Objectives:
GOAL 4: Student Recruitment, Retention & Success
Recruit, support, and graduate diverse students prepared for leadership in speech-language pathology, research, and advocacy.
Objectives:
Looking Ahead
Through these goals, COSD will expand culturally responsive training pathways, elevate research and interdisciplinary partnerships, strengthen community engagement, and enhance student recruitment and mentoring. This strategic plan positions the department to advance equity in communication health and prepare the next generation of leaders in speech-language pathology and communication sciences.
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 University, and 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 who are 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
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 | # Taking the Exam | # Passed the Exam | Praxis Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-2025 | 6 | 4 | 67% |
| 2023-2024 | 2 | 2 | 100% |
| 2022-2023 | 8 | 7 | 88% |
| 3 Year Average | 85% |
| Year | Number CNumber Completing On Time ompleting Program | Number Completing Later Than on Time | Number Not Completing Program | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-2025 | 14 | 0 | 0 | |
| 2023-2024 | 12 | 0 | 1 | |
| 2022-2023 | 11 | 0 | 0 | |
| 3 Year Average | 97% |
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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