The Value of a Ph.D. in Audiology or Speech-Language Pathology
A Ph.D. in Audiology or Speech-Language Pathology opens many doors, both inside and outside of academia. Ph.D. training provides the skills to carry out one’s own research, as well as to participate in research teams. Faculty positions at universities allow one to teach tomorrow’s rising stars, while conducting research that informs knowledge and practice. University faculty positions are highly flexible, often provide sabbatical leaves, and can provide the security of tenure. Salaries for faculty show substantial growth, with far less of a “ceiling” than other jobs. Positions for those with doctorates are also widely available outside of universities. The skills attained with a Ph.D. are required for many high-level jobs in universities, hospitals, clinics, private industries, and public organizations.
Ph.D. Program with Clinical Education Option
The School can also provide the unique opportunity of completing coursework and clinical training required for certification as an audiologist or speech-language pathologist within the doctoral program of studies. Currently, any prospective student considering this option must first apply to enter the Master of Science in either audiology or speech-language pathology. Applicants must meet all of the M.Sc. admission requirements. Although the M.Sc. application is not a formal application to the Ph.D. program, prospective students interested in continuing into the Ph.D. program should indicate this in their Statement of Interest.
Ph.D. Option for Currently-Enrolled M.Sc. Students
Exceptional students currently enrolled in SASS M.Sc. programs in audiology and speech-language pathology may be eligible to transfer into the Ph.D. program. If an application for such a transfer is approved, the transfer itself may occur after 12 months of M.Sc. studies, provided minimum criteria are met (see Faculty of Graduate Studies Masters-PhD Transfers for more details). Prior to applying to transfer programs, a School faculty member must agree to supervise the student’s Ph.D. research. All applications to transfer into the Ph.D. program require approval from the School’s Doctoral Studies Committee. An individualized program of study–including completion of coursework/practica required for certification as an audiologist or speech-language pathologist–is subsequently developed by the student’s Advisory Committee.
