In an exciting move to make speech-language pathology careers more accessible, Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMU) is launching a Speech-Language Pathology Leveling Curriculum (SLP-L).
This innovative approach, set to begin in September 2025, will open doors for a diverse range of aspiring speech-language professionals, particularly those who are currently enrolled in or graduated from a university that does not offer the communication sciences and disorders (CSD) major.
By offering a clear pathway to fulfill the prerequisite coursework required for graduate study, the SLP-L program empowers career-changers and others to pursue a rewarding career in speech-language pathology.
“It took a bit of crafting to figure out how we could offer these leveling courses within the context of what RMU does, but we finally got there and we’re very excited about it,” said Wendy Chase, RMU’s Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS MedSLP) program director. “This option allows students with a variety of undergraduate degrees and experiences to enter the field and add depth and diversity to the profession.”
What is the SLP-L Program?
The SLP-L curriculum consists of 18 credits spread across six three-credit courses, covering essential topics such as Phonetics & Phonology, Anatomy & Physiology, Speech & Hearing Science, Language Development, Speech & Language Disorders, and Audiology & Aural Rehabilitation.
These courses are tailored for individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree in any field or are currently enrolled in a degree-seeking program (with at least 75 credits or junior standing) at institutions where CSD is not offered.
The program is delivered online, providing flexibility for students from various regions and backgrounds. Completion of the SLP-L curriculum prepares students to apply to graduate programs, including RMU’s Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS MedSLP), though it does not guarantee admission.
“The quality of the instructors and the curriculum will prepare students to enter any Master’s Speech-Language pathology program,” said Chase. “In this case, they will be guaranteed an interview (but not placement) into RMU’s MS MedSLP program.”
By addressing the prerequisite requirements, the program removes significant barriers, allowing students to transition into graduate studies without delay.
Why SLP-L Matters
The SLP-L program at RMU is a game-changer for the field of speech-language pathology, which faces a growing demand for qualified professionals to address complex communication and swallowing disorders in diverse populations.
“The leveling courses remove barriers to people interested in a career in speech-language pathology and makes the profession more accessible to more people, which is exactly what we want,” said ElBea Stonier, Director of Clinical Education and Clinic Director at RMU’s MS MedSLP program. “We need more SLPs in general. But we also need a lot of different kinds of people from different places, different regions, and different life experiences who are interested in pursuing their career.”
This focus on inclusivity aligns with RMU’s commitment to fostering cultural humility and responsiveness in healthcare education. The program is particularly valuable for non-traditional students, such as those who discover speech pathology later in their academic journey or those transitioning from fields like psychology, sociology, or even bioengineering.
“It’s a core principle of our program to educate and empower our students,” Chase explained. “We want students are well educated in the principals and methodology and empowered to go back to their communities and make a positive impact.”
A Pathway for Diverse Perspectives
The SLP-L program is designed to attract students who bring unique perspectives and life experiences, enriching the field with diverse approaches to patient care. For instance, career-changers who may not have had access to CSD undergraduate programs can now complete the necessary coursework without needing to change their major or delay their graduate studies.
By offering these courses online, RMU ensures that geographic and logistical barriers are minimized, making the profession more inclusive.
The curriculum also supports RMU’s holistic approach to education, emphasizing critical thinking and adaptability. Graduates of the SLP-L program are well-prepared to enter the MS MedSLP program, where they will learn to tailor interventions to the cultural and individual needs of their clients, ensuring patient-centered care.
Program Details and Enrollment
RMU’s SLP-L program is both affordable and accessible.
- Standard tuition: $400 per credit ($1,200 per course), totaling $7,200 + fees
- Bundled option: $350 per credit ($1,050 per course), totaling $6,300 + fees
A one-time enrollment fee of $250 will be waived for those applying for Fall 2025, with no application fee required. (Note that this non-degree-seeking program does not qualify for Title IV federal aid.)
Eligible applicants include those with a bachelor’s degree in any field or current undergraduates with junior standing at institutions without CSD programs. The online format ensures flexibility, allowing students to balance their studies with other commitments while preparing for a competitive graduate school application.
Join the Future of Speech-Language Pathology
The SLP-L program reflects RMU’s mission to respond to society’s evolving healthcare needs by training diverse, compassionate, and skilled professionals. Whether you’re a career-changer, a student exploring new paths, or someone passionate about helping others communicate and thrive, the SLP-L curriculum offers a gateway to a fulfilling career in speech-language pathology.
Ready to take the first step? Visit RMU’s SLP-L Program Page for more information and to apply. Join us in shaping the future of healthcare, one voice at a time.
