Program Objectives

Mission

The mission of the Maryville University Speech-Language Pathology Program (also offered online) is to prepare knowledgeable, collaborative, and culturally responsive speech-language pathologists who serve all people across the life span.

Vision

The Maryville University Speech-Language Pathology Program graduates will be ethical leaders in interprofessional practice, innovative technologies, and identity-affirming care.

Core Values

  1. Innovative active-learning
  2. Social and professional advocacy
  3. Self-reflective critical thinking
  4. Culturally responsive assessment & intervention
  5. Ethical and equitable care
  6. Evidence-based practice
  7. Diverse and inclusive perspectives
  8. Interpersonal communication
  9. Interprofessional education and practice

Graduate Degree Program Objectives

Outcomes for the graduate program are based upon expected student competencies as set forth by the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association (ASHA). Upon graduation, students will demonstrate the following:

  1. Knowledge of normal and disordered human communication (speech, language, hearing) and swallowing across the life span, and how disorders are distinct from cultural differences in the realm of communication.
  2. Synthesis of academic, clinical and research experiences to arrive at methods of  preventing and treating communication and swallowing disorders across the life span.
  3. Ability to evaluate research, to apply the research process to novel projects, to understand the importance of research for both clinical procedures and the growth of the profession, and to apply current research to clinical experiences.
  4. Comprehension of contemporary issues in speech-language pathology including professional practice, ASHA policies, certifications, licensure and specialty recognition.
  5. Application of ethical conduct in academic, research and clinical endeavors.
  6. Emotional maturity and strong interpersonal skills necessary for a  career in clinical practice, paired with strong oral and written communication abilities and reflection as a practitioner.
  7. Supervised clinical experiences including evaluation and intervention, across cultures and ages with a wide variety of different disabilities in accordance with ASHA’s guidelines.
  8. A desire and commitment to the continued development of their cultural competence and humility to better serve the needs of clients they will support and advocate for.