Program FAQs

What is the PreSLP program?
The Pre-Speech-Language Pathology (PreSLP) program provides post-baccalaureate students with the opportunity to take pre-requisite courses in basic human communication sciences. These courses are often needed to apply to Master’s degree programs in speech-language pathology.

What does the program consist of?
This unique program offers eight undergraduate Communication Sciences and Disorders courses that are commonly required by Master’s degree programs. We offer our PreSLP courses both online and on campus, affording students the choice of a flexible schedule.

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 the current Council for Clinical Certification in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CFCC) requirements. However, they are not necessarily the requirements for all graduate programs in Speech-Language Pathology. Individual graduate programs have leeway in how they interpret CFCC guidelines. Students should consult with a representative of the graduate program(s) they are considering for specific information about program admission requirements.

Does enrollment in the PreSLP program guarantee admission to La Salle’s M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology program?
Completing PreSLP courses at La Salle University does not guarantee admission to La Salle’s M.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 a few courses?
It is not necessary to take all of the courses in the PreSLP program. Students may choose to enroll in only the courses that they need. However, students must have satisfied the necessary pre-requisite for any PreSLP course before enrolling in it. You will be able to discuss your course selections with an advisor.

How many courses do you recommend taking per semester in the PreSLP program?
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 eleven 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.

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. For more information, students should contact Latasha Lipscomb:

Office of Graduate and Adult Enrollment
La Salle University- Box 826
1900 W Olney Ave
Philadelphia, PA 19141

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 daily, although this may vary from course to course. The online format offers the convenience of being able to participate at any time 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. PreSLP courses are currently offered in an asynchronous mode. This means that there is no specific time of day that students are required to be online. Please note that individual instructors may schedule synchronous events—events that occur at one particular day and time– as part of their requirements. Synchronous attendance requirements will be communicated in the course syllabus.

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

Successful students:

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