Survey of Communication Sciences and Disorders Applicants: Factors That Influence Graduate School Selection

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to provide a comprehensive analysis of the aspects within speech-language pathology programs that students deem to be important or relevant as they apply to and subsequently select a graduate program. Method: Data were collected through an online survey of 627 individuals who had applied to a master's degree program in speech-language pathology. Ninety-nine applicants participated in the survey (15.7% response rate) with approximately half (46%) providing information to an open-ended question. Survey questions explored 28 different factors for consideration. Results: Respondents indicated that clinical opportunities on and off campus, ability to attend full time, and responsiveness of the university to inquiries were the top most important factors when deciding where to apply and then attend graduate school. The top factors considered not important, or irrelevant, included attending a large university, ability to attend part time, and the program being located in a small town/city. An open-ended response question identified other factors applicants valued, including diversity within the program, diversity of clients, the campus community, and university supports. Conclusions: Results from this study identified factors important to communication sciences and disorders (speech-language pathology) graduate program applicants to a small, public university in rural Virginia and supported findings from previous studies. Furthermore, additional factors emerged including university assistance and supporting students from diverse backgrounds. Graduate programs can use these findings in developing and refining programs and in recruiting students to their programs.