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4+2 Pathway to M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology

The 4+2 pathway allows undergraduate students who are confident they want to pursue a speech-language pathology career to enter McDaniel in the bachelor's of Health Sciences with a specialization in Speech-Language and Hearing Sciences, then make a seamless transition to our M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology.

Apply to McDaniel Learn about the developing M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology

What is the 4+2 program in Speech-Language Pathology?

McDaniel College offers a structured 4+2 pathway designed for students pursuing a career in speech-language pathology. This academic track begins with a four-year Bachelor of Arts in Health Sciences with a specialization in Speech-Language and Hearing Sciences. 

The undergraduate program provides a strong foundation in communication sciences, anatomy and physiology of speech and hearing mechanisms, and the developmental and neurological bases of communication. Students also engage in observation experiences and coursework aligned with the prerequisites for graduate study in speech-language pathology.

Upon successful completion of the bachelor’s degree, students may apply to the Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program, which comprises the final two years of the 4+2 pathway. The graduate program builds on undergraduate preparation and includes advanced coursework, supervised clinical practicum, and research opportunities. This two-phase structure ensures students are academically and professionally prepared to meet the certification requirements for speech-language pathologists and to serve diverse populations in educational, clinical, and health care settings. The 4+2 pathway offers a seamless, comprehensive route to entering the profession with a clear trajectory from foundational knowledge to clinical expertise.

Students who graduate with the B.A. in Health Sciences and who are academically eligible are guaranteed an interview to our master's program.

Who is Eligible?

  • First-time undergraduate students applying to McDaniel.
  • Currently enrolled McDaniel undergraduate students who apply to the program by the fall of their second year of study.  
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Speech-Language and Hearing Sciences Major Health Sciences Specialization at McDaniel

The Speech-Language and Hearing Sciences specialization in the Health Sciences major provides undergraduate students with foundational knowledge for graduate education and future careers in speech-language pathology and audiology. This major pairs with McDaniel's developing M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology as part of a 4+2 program. 

Deadlines

For first-year undergraduate students:

  • March 1, 2026: Priority Application Deadline (McDaniel Application or Common Application)
  • September - April: Interviews hosted for five-year program candidates.

Currently enrolled McDaniel undergraduate students can apply to the program by the fall of their second year of study. Contact the program director for instructions on enrolling as a current student.

4+2 Program Interviews

After completing your first year at McDaniel College, you can apply for the 4+2 track. Admission interviews will be held monthly from September 2026 through April 2027.