PhD in Communication Sciences and Disorders
Earn the highest level of academic achievement in the field of communication sciences and disorders through specialized study in your area of interest. Through coursework, mentored and independent research, and internships in college teaching or clinical supervision, you will prepare for leadership roles at colleges, universities, research settings, and clinical agencies.
Program Highlights
- Individualized course of study
- Multiple research experiences
- Opportunities for college teaching or clinical supervision experiences
- Program typically consists of approximately four years of full-time study, which includes two years of full-time coursework, pre-dissertation research competencies, comprehensive exams, and dissertation research
The graduate faculty in the communication sciences and disorders program are known internationally, nationally, and regionally as researchers, educators, and clinicians. All are active researchers and instructors, and all maintain active collaborations with multiple professional colleagues within and beyond the University of Georgia. The faculty are committed to the importance of evidence-based, client-centered, and outcomes-focused Ph.D. education and to the future of research and teaching in the field.
Curriculum
As a PhD Student, you will work closely with a doctoral advisor or major professor who has aligning research interests, as well as with faculty from other programs, departments, and colleges. With your major professor and faculty advisory committee, you will develop an individualized program of study addressing your primary and related areas of focus. In addition to coursework and multiple mentored research experiences, you will have the opportunity to complete a student-teaching internship and/or serve as a mentored clinical supervisor.
While your overall course of study will vary, at a minimum, you will be expected to complete:
- 30 hours of core focus-area courses
- 12 hours of advanced statistics
- 6 hours of computer science
- 10 hours of dissertation research
Additional information and disclosures regarding state licensure for professional practice in this field can be found at the UGA Licensure Disclosure Portal .
How to Apply
Eligibility
You are eligible to apply to the PhD in Communication Sciences and Disorders program if you meet all of the following requirements:
- Completed a master’s degree in speech-language pathology or a related field
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
- For international students, meet the English proficiency requirement .
Application Step 1: Identify Potential Faculty Advisors
Given the individualized nature of a PhD program, the first step in your application process will be to email at least one potential faculty advisor. Use the faculty bios to identify at least one faculty member whose research activities and publications align with your interests. Email that faculty member to introduce yourself and ask if they could consider serving as your advisor. If you need help identifying potential advisors, email the Graduate Coordinator.
Application Step 2: Complete Three Initial Interviews
All applicants are required to interview with at least three members of the department faculty as part of the application process. Interviews may be completed either before or after you submit the online application described in Step 3. Conversations with your potential faculty advisor(s) from Step 1 are considered interviews. It is the applicant’s responsibility to schedule interviews, but if you need help scheduling interviews, email the Graduate Coordinator.
Application Step 3: Complete the Online Application to the University of Georgia’s PhD in Communication Sciences and Disorders Program
Select the PhD in Communication Sciences and Disorders program on your Graduate School Application. You will need to submit the following information as part of your application:
- Official GRE scores
- Unofficial transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
- A statement of your professional experience and career goals, not to exceed two single-spaced typed pages.
- Resumé/vita
- English Proficiency Exam (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo) Scores for international students sidebar_first: false
Deadline To Apply
If you will need funding from the department or from the university, you must apply by December 15 to be considered for the following Fall semester. Applications from students who do not wish to be considered for department or university funding are reviewed on an ongoing basis.
Additional Resources
Please use our online form if you have any questions for the department. Please be as specific as possible so that we may quickly assist you.
The College’s programs are taught by dedicated faculty who are experts in a range of areas and are passionate about helping students succeed both in their programs and professionally.
Most graduate students at UGA are not assigned to a faculty advisor until after admittance. A close working relationship with your advisor is paramount to progressing through your program of study.
Almost all in-state students begin their studies at UGA paying limited tuition or fees. Please note that these amounts are subject to change and are meant to give prospective students an idea of the costs associated with a degree at the University of Georgia College of Education.
Students may qualify for a variety of assistantships, scholarships, and other financial awards to help offset the cost of tuition, housing, and other expenses.
Our PhD experience gives you the opportunity to experience life in an academic setting. Through full-time study, research and clinical work, you will work closely with faculty and leave with the knowledge and skills to shape your discipline and be a leader in your profession.
See for yourself how much UGA College of Education has to offer! Schedule a tour of campus to learn more about the UGA student experience.