Human Sciences
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
A Ph.D. in Human Sciences with a specialization in Communication Disorders and an emphasis in Audiology, Speech and Hearing Science or Speech-Language Pathology will prepare you as a scholar in both applied and basic aspects of communication. The focus is to prepare you for leadership roles in teaching, research and/or clinical management, depending on your personal goals and objectives.
The concept of a Ph.D. is reflected in the policy statement from the Association of Graduate Schools (1979). The degree of Ph.D. "is conferred in recognition of a candidate's high level of scholarly competence and demonstrated capability to conduct and report significant research independently and effectively. Ph.D. programs involve scholarly and research activity directed mainly toward the acquisition of new and fundamental knowledge. Ph.D. programs are to be distinguished from practitioner-oriented doctorates which prepare for the application or transmission of existing knowledge and that may be intended to serve as preparation for professional practice. . ." The requirements and knowledge base for the Ph.D. in Communication Disorders is consistent with traditional practice although it has a strong applied and professional component. In summary, the focus of this degree is the traditional teacher-scholar model.
The Ph.D. with an emphasis in Speech-Language Pathology is designed to prepare you for research and teaching. You will pursue advanced studies of theoretical and applied issues relevant to the acquisition, remediation, supplementation and/or loss of human communication abilities. Research aspects of the program prepare you to work independently on the design and implementation of scientific investigations. Teaching experiences assist in your development of skills necessary for university teaching positions in communication science and disorders.
Careers
Teaching
Research
Administration
Application to this program
If you are entering the Ph.D. program without professional studies in the field and you wish to acquire certification and licensure in either Audiology and Hearing Science or Speech-Language Pathology, you will be expected to acquire this knowledge concurrently with your doctoral studies.
Visit the Office of Graduate Studies website and submit the following:
- Online application
- Transcripts
- TOEFL scores (International students only) (Institution code = 6877; Department code = 77)
- Financial Resource Certification (International students only)
You must also enter or upload the following:
- Resume/vita
- Statement of purpose/ goals
- Prerequisite courses
- GRE scores (Institution code = 6877; Department code = 0620) *GRE requirement has been reinstated beginning with admission for Spring 2022*
- Names and contact information for three references of your choosing. (The system will automatically email the specified people and request that each upload the recommendation.)
References should be able to write letters attesting to the applicant’s academic ability to successfully complete graduate school. These references likely hold a master's or more advanced degree, and should not have any family connection to the applicant. - Assistantship / Fellowship Application (optional)
- Writing Sample (Required)
- Advisor Support Agreement (Required)
Deadline for Applicants
Jan. 15 for consideration of Barkley Doctoral Fellow funding; otherwise rolling admission.
Contact graduate@unl.edu with any questions regarding the application process.