How Many Semesters Does SLP Take?

[pikafuerte]

Hi guys,

I'm just beginning my post-bac program next month (through SUNY New Paltz's online program) and am researching New York grad schools. I know most programs take two full years. This may seem like a dumb question, but how many total semesters is that? Is it 5--because you also go the summer between first and second year?--or is it 6? Also, I know that with Brooklyn College and with Columbia Teachers College and probably others, there are options to get whatever certifications you need to teach. If I wanted to do that--or add a Bilingual Extension--should I be budgeting for an extra semester?

Thanks in advance for any guidance you can offer!

[jpiccolo]

It's usually 5-6. Most programs include one or two summer terms either for classes or externships. 

[MangoSmoothie]

Most programs have some form of the (roughly) expected course of study which would have total semesters. So if you want to know exactly, you'll have to check each program's webpage. If they don't have that publicly available, most program directors are willing to provide it with a simple email request.

But yes, jpiccolo is correct. In my experience researching programs, most programs have at least the first summer, but not the second summer, making them 5 semesters. My program is (unfortunately) one of the few 6 semester programs I saw out there, including both summers.

[Crimson Wife]

If a program has a specialty track, that usually adds at least 1 semester. Some schools might allow you to simply take a heavier load but those schools typically charge by credit rather than by semester, so it doesn't save you any money. OTOH, depending on what specific specialty you're interested in, there may be scholarships available designated for students in that track. I know there are scholarships available for deaf & hard-of-hearing, autism, and Alternative & Augmentative Communication tracks. Not sure about bilingual since I don't speak an in-demand language like Spanish or Mandarin.

[pikafuerte]

Thanks, all. This is helpful.