The Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) Board of Regents voted to approve a new Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) at Nevada State College. It will be the first master-level degree to be offered at the state’s only four-year college.
The Master of Education (MEd) in Speech-Language Pathology will train students to become certified speech-language pathologists who can provide clinical services in hospitals, clinics, and schools. Students who complete this program will be prepared for the Certificate of Clinical Competence national certification examination for speech-language-pathologists administered by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) as well as the licensure tests required by the state of Nevada.
Nevada is underserved with speech-language pathologists, with only 25.6 SLPs per 100,000 residents. In 2016, ASHA ranked Nevada last in the nation with the number SLPs per capita.
“I am excited that Nevada State College has secured approval from the Board of Regents,” said Dr. Vickie Shields, Provost and Executive Vice President of Nevada State College. “The workforce need for master’s-qualified speech-language pathologists in Nevada is severe. Not only will graduates have positions waiting for them, but they will also enjoy a very competitive salary. Nevada State will be ready to welcome our first incoming class in Fall 2019.”
Currently, Nevada State College supports a Bachelor’s degree in Speech Pathology, which allows graduates to work as SLPs in the Clark County School District (CCSD). However, to work as a professional in speech-language pathology or audiology outside of CCSD, licensure from ASHA is required. Licensure requires a Master’s or Doctoral degree in the field, 400 hours of clinical practicum, and successful completion of a comprehensive examination.
“The Nevada State School of Education deeply appreciates the NSHE Board of Regents’ decision to approve our proposed Master’s Degree in speech-language pathology,” said Dr. Dennis Potthoff, Dean of the College’s School of Education. “Adding the graduate level component to our vibrant undergraduate degree program, and our RiteCare Clinic collaboration with the Scottish Rite Masons, constitutes another very significant step in the building of our campus programming. More importantly, this decision will enhance the quality of speech-language services available for children and adults who are living in Southern Nevada.”
With the NSHE Board of Regent’s approval, Nevada State will continue the accreditation process with ASHA. Once accreditation is received, students will be able to enroll in classes for the Fall 2019 semester.
For more information, please visit https://nsc.edu.
