Northern Michigan University will offer a Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology. Students who complete a bachelor's degree can ladder into the master's degree program for advanced training to become skilled professionals in the field while remaining in the Upper Peninsula, where there is a strong demand for related services. Applications for the first cohort in summer 2026 will be accepted starting this fall through Jan. 15.
“The main reason for launching the program is that students who have graduated with their bachelor's degrees have traditionally had to the leave the U.P. to pursue graduate education to complete either a two-year master's degree to become a speech-language pathologist, or a three-year clinical doctorate to become an audiologist,” said Program Director and Associate Professor Heather Isaacson. “We want to keep those students in the Upper Peninsula, where there is a strong need for speech-language pathologists in local schools and healthcare agencies. Through this program, we aim to help address the gap by expanding the workforce and supporting the delivery of speech-language pathology services across the region.”
The full-time, two-year graduate program at NMU offers two tracks: a 59-credit non-thesis track and a 65-credit thesis track. Students will complete coursework and clinical experiences that meet the standards set by the Council for Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology. The program cohorts will start each summer, beginning in 2026.
“This program is primarily designed for students who have completed a bachelor's degree in speech, language, and hearing sciences,” Isaacson said. “However, we also welcome applicants with related backgrounds in psychology, social work or nursing. These students will need to complete prerequisite coursework prior to full admission.”
NMU previously offered a master's degree in speech-language pathology until 2003, and is now reinstating the program in response to growing regional demand for services and qualified providers.
“At our recent advisory board meeting, the excitement in the room was palpable,” she added. “Many board members completed their undergraduate and graduate degrees at Northern when the program was previously offered, so they're thrilled to see it return.”
Students enrolled in the program will gain clinical experience through NMU's Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic, which has served pediatric and adult clients in the community for over 50 years. The clinic enables students to complete the 400 required hours of direct contact under the direct supervision of faculty who are certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
“We've designed this program to prepare the next generation of speech-language pathologists through immersive, hands-on learning experiences in our on-campus clinic,” Isaacson added.
To learn more about the NMU Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology and how to apply, visit nmu.edu/clinicalsciences/ms-speech-language-pathology.