Program FAQs

What is the PreSLP program?
The PreSpeech Language Pathology (PreSLP) program provides post-baccalaureate students, who do not have the required background in communication sciences and disorders, with the prerequisite courses in basic human communication sciences needed to apply to a Master’s degree program in Speech-Language Pathology.

What does the program consist of?
This unique program consists of 10 required undergraduate Communication Sciences and Disorders courses which can be taken either online or on campus, affording students the choice of a flexible schedule to pursue the needed prerequisites to apply to a Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology program.

Do the courses in the PreSLP program satisfy admission requirements for other graduate programs in Speech-Language-Pathology?
The PreSLP program consists of courses required for admission to La Salle University’s master’s program in Speech-Language Pathology. These courses reflect La Salle University’s interpretation of current ASHA requirements. However, they are not necessarily the requirements for all graduate programs in Speech-Language Pathology. Programs have leeway in how they choose to interpret ASHA guidelines. Students should consult with a representative of the graduate program(s) they are considering for specific information about program requirements.

Does enrollment in the PreSLP program guarantee admission to La Salle’s Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology program?
Completing PreSLP courses at La Salle University does not guarantee admission to La Salle’s Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology program. Students interested in applying to the master’s program must follow a separate admission process which is outlined on the SLP graduate program website.

Is it necessary to take all of the courses in the PreSLP program, or is it possible to take only certain courses?
It is not necessary to take all of the courses in the PreSLP program. Students may choose to enroll in only certain courses. However, students must have satisfied the necessary pre-requisite for any course they choose to take in the PreSLP program.

How long will it take to complete all of the courses in the PreSLP program?
It typically takes between eighteen and twenty-four months to complete all of the PreSLP courses. Most students take two courses per term. For online courses, it is recommended that students take no more than three courses in the same term.

When are the PreSLP courses offered?
Online courses are offered in the Fall, Spring and Summer terms. Face to face courses are offered during the day in the Fall and Spring terms. Fall and Spring terms are each fifteen weeks long and the Summer term is fourteen weeks long.

Are the courses offered in a specific sequence or can they be taken at any time?
Many courses in the program have to be taken in a specific sequence because they build on material covered in a previous course.

Are there other requirements for admission to a graduate program in SLP, in addition to the PreSLP courses?
There are additional requirements to satisfy current ASHA guidelines for biological sciences, physical sciences, social/behavioral sciences, and mathematics. La Salle University offers an online course, BIO 164, which satisfies the biological sciences requirement. The other requirements may be satisfied at La Salle University through face to face classes, or at other schools/colleges.

What are the admission requirements for the PreSLP program?
Admission to the PreSLP program is open to students who have earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. To apply, students should submit the Undergraduate Part-Time web application and submit a transcript of their undergraduate work.

How does the waiting list work?
All newly admitted students in the PreSLP program are placed on a waiting list for registration. Given the high demand for our courses, and the limited number of spaces available in each course, we must prioritize the registration process. Students currently in the PreSLP program have first priority for registering each term. Once their registration is complete, if there is still space available in courses, students from the waiting list may register.

How do I register if I am on the waiting list?
Students on the waiting list will be contacted by email when it is time to register for classes. In order to register, students must first pay a non-refundable deposit of $500 which will go toward the first semester’s tuition.

Once I enroll in the program, is there a waiting list for future semesters?
The waiting list is in effect for the first semester only. Once students enroll in the program, there is no waiting list to register for future terms.

How do the PreSLP courses work online?
Our online courses are offered through the Canvas Learning System which is accessed through our mylasalle portal. They are taught by La Salle University instructors and follow a specific syllabus for assignments, tests, threaded discussions, etc. The courses are highly structured, and require students to be engaged on a daily basis, although this may vary from course to course. The online format offers the convenience of being able to participate anytime of the day or night. They are not independent study or self-paced learning experiences.

Do I have to be logged in at any specific time of the day or night for the online courses?
No. They are currently offered in an asynchronous mode (no specific time of day to be online); note that individual instructors may schedule synchronous events (specific day and time to be online) as part of their requirements but that will be communicated in the course syllabus.

What does it take to be successful in the online learning environment?

Students who are successful:

• Have regular and easy access to appropriate tools (computer, software) at home or at work
• Have a comfort level with using the tools (Canvas, email, printing, file management, uploading and downloading files)
• Understand their learning style and abilities
• Have very good time-management and organizational skills
• Take responsibility for being prepared and completing assignments on time
• Have high level of motivation and strong commitment to putting in time and effort.