Online prerequisites for speech pathology

[Anuradha Murti]

Does anyone have any thoughts about prerequisite courses for speech pathology via distance learning? My UG degree was in a completely different field, and I've been out of college for a very long time. I'm enrolled in online courses in speech and hearing due to location, and I'm worried about whether grad schools will view my applications unfavorably because I did my prereqs online rather than in person.

Second question - I'm taking the courses through a state university (Ohio), and as they only offer the prereqs during the summer I'm looking into places where I can continue the process in the fall. Does anyone know anything about about Utah State's online prereq program?

I'd love to hear from anyone who has any thoughts or similar issues - the whole process is kind of intimidating, and I'm freaking myself out a little. Thanks!

[trevortiger]

I've taken a bunch of classes in the USU slp pre-requisite program, and I recommend the program on every level. The price is very reasonable, you can pick and choose which classes you need, they offer all classes all semesters, including the summer, the professors are great, and it is rigorous enough that online post-baccalaureate students are reporting that they are getting into grad schools. The professors will write you recommendations for applications even if you are an online student. I haven't had any technology issues, and there is a strong sense of community on the chat boards for each class I have taken. Not all of the classes that you would need for every program in the country are offered - so you would have to check what the requirements for the grad programs you are interested in are. (Neuroscience is one class that is not offered, and seems to be a requirement for many programs.) So you could either do the whole post-bac program to get your 2nd bachelor's degree in Communication Disorders (12 classes), or you could take only the classes you need. Good luck!

[Anuradha Murti]

Thanks so much for your reply! I'm very grateful for the distance learning option for post-bac, but until I found this site I didn't have any info on the outcomes of such programs. Good to know about the level of rigor and faculty recommendations.

[vpeters25]

I am taking USU's classes for the first time this fall and so far it's been a good experience. I had asked around to make sure the pre-reqs would be accepted where I wanted to apply, and they said that they would accept them no problem. I was considering doing the full second bachelors, but so many of the schools I am looking at only have 4-5 pre-reqs, so I probably won't do the second degree option. Only downside is that if you are a non-degree seeking student you don't qualify for financial aid.

[cle63]

Hello Anuradha,

I was wondering if you could tell me whish State U in Ohio you are going through for your post-bac. I'm in Columbus and am also interested in an online option.

Thanks

[JenniferD]

I think you are fine with the online classes, because one of our fall 2011 applicant did hers online(actually through Utah State) and she loved it. Our department's master program is quite competitive in the area and she got in successfully as a non-CDS student.

Good luck!

Edited November 4, 2011 by JenniferD