Troy University’s College of Education and Behavioral Sciences has introduced a new undergraduate minor in speech-language pathology (SLP) designed to prepare students for graduate study and careers in communication sciences. The program is offered through the Department of Counseling, Rehabilitation and Interpreter Training. 

The SLP minor is a 21-hour program that includes courses in communication disorders, phonetics, speech and hearing science, anatomy and physiology, audiology, and language development. Students are also strongly encouraged to take SLP 3301 Introduction to Communication Disorders, offered as a Rehabilitation and Disability Studies major elective. This course is especially valuable for students considering graduate study in speech-language pathology and provides others with the opportunity to explore the field or build a stronger foundation before committing to the full minor. All courses are offered online, and the program can be completed in as little as one year.  

Dr. Sharon Weaver, associate professor in the Department of Counseling Rehabilitation and Interpreter Training, spearheaded the effort to create the program. She noted that the idea grew from student needs. “We saw so many of our graduates pursuing master’s degrees in speech-language pathology,” Weaver said. “Without the foundational courses they often had to take an extra year of study before starting graduate school. This minor eliminates that gap and makes our students more competitive.” 

Jessica Simpson Webb, lecturer in the department and longtime speech therapist, emphasized the practical impact of the program. “This minor was created to bridge a real need,” Webb said. “It allows students to gain the same core classes offered at universities with a communication disorders degree without leaving TROY. It’s an opportunity for our students to be fully prepared for the next step in their professional journey.” 

Students may begin the program as early as their junior year with course sequencing designed to align with major requirements. While the minor is particularly well suited for students in rehabilitation studies, psychology, counseling and health sciences, it is open to all undergraduates. 

“This program reflects our commitment to student success,” Webb said. “By offering these courses here at TROY we are saving our students time and money while giving them the same opportunities as their peers at larger institutions.”