Allied Health Professions Introduce a Clinical Doctorate in Speech-Language Pathology

Loma Linda University School of Allied Health Professions recently announced that it is now accepting applications for a 2.25 year (9 quarter) Clinical Doctorate in Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD). One of only six such programs in the nation, this is the first Clinical Doctorate program in Speech-Language Pathology being offered in the state of California. The program will be offered online, meaning residents of states other than California can apply (with some restrictions). In addition to an on-campus orientation, students will need to come to campus for an on-campus intensive each year of the program. This degree program is being offered for Masters-level clinicians who want to increase their depth of knowledge in the field of speech-language pathology, and want to acquire clinical research experience. Graduates of the program will be trained for positions such as master clinicians, clinical researchers, or university faculty. Advanced knowledge in the field of speech-language pathology, with specialized training in evidence based practice, critical thinking and leadership, legal and ethical issues and clinical problem solving will be provided to current practitioners. As a Doctoral student, skills such as analyzing and synthesizing existing research literature as they conduct their own research in their own area of interest will be gained. The director of the new program, Dr. Darin Woolpert, is excited about the opportunity it presents for speech-language pathologists: “Current clinicians are extremely limited in their ability to upgrade their credentials, especially if they are not interested in becoming full-time students again. The SLPD program at Loma Linda University is designed to have a flexible course load so students can work at their own pace. While this is the only program of its kind in the western United States, we are hoping to enroll students from coast-to-coast.” More information is available at the program website: http://www.llu.edu/slpd/