St. John's University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework, intensive research training and supervised scholarly teaching and clinical experiences. Core study areas include advanced research design and statistics, neuroscience of communication, lifespan language and cognitive-communication disorders, fluency and voice disorders, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), bilingual and culturally responsive assessment and intervention, and evidence-based clinical practice.

• Advanced Research Methods and Statistics — multivariate methods, longitudinal designs, measurement theory and application of quantitative and qualitative approaches.
• Neurogenic and Developmental Communication Disorders — in-depth study of aphasia, traumatic brain injury, dementia, autism spectrum disorder, and specific language impairment across ages.
• Diagnostic and Intervention Science — contemporary assessment, treatment efficacy, implementation science and outcome measurement.
• Bilingualism and Cultural Considerations — assessment and intervention strategies for multilingual populations and culturally informed clinical practice.
• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) — technology, design, and evidence for supporting complex communication needs.
• Professional and Academic Skills — grant writing, ethics in research and practice, pedagogy and supervision of clinical trainees.

Programme structure typically includes two to three years of coursework and practicum, qualifying or comprehensive examinations, preparation and defence of a doctoral dissertation, and opportunities for teaching and supervised clinical leadership. Students engage in original research under faculty mentorship and are expected to disseminate findings through conference presentations and peer-reviewed publication.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant master’s degree (for example, MSc, MA or MEd) in speech-language pathology, communication sciences and disorders, audiology, or a closely related field from an accredited institution. Strong candidates typically demonstrate a solid academic record, prior research experience, and clinical competence. Requirements generally include:

• Official transcripts from all postsecondary institutions.
• A master’s degree in a relevant field; applicants with extensive research experience and equivalent preparation may be considered.
• A statement of purpose outlining research interests and career goals.
• Curriculum vitae or resume detailing clinical and research experience.
• Three letters of recommendation, including at least one academic or research reference.
• Evidence of clinical certification or licensure where applicable (for example, national clinical credentials) is advantageous but not always mandatory for admission.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency according to university policy.

Selection also considers fit with faculty research interests and availability of a faculty mentor. Some applicants may be invited for an interview with potential supervisors as part of the assessment process.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD programme pursue a range of leadership roles in academia, clinical research and healthcare policy. Common career paths include:

• Faculty positions in universities and colleges, encompassing teaching, research and clinical training supervision.
• Research scientist or principal investigator roles in hospitals, research institutes and government or private research organisations.
• Clinical leadership and director roles in hospitals, rehabilitation centres, school systems and community health organisations.
• Consultancy and specialist practitioner roles in speech, language and hearing technology development, telepractice, and AAC implementation.
• Positions in policy, advocacy and professional organisations, contributing to standards of care and service delivery models.

The programme emphasises research productivity and grant-writing skills, equipping graduates to secure external funding and to lead interdisciplinary teams addressing complex communication-health challenges.

Why study at St. John's University

St. John’s University offers doctoral training embedded in a clinically rich and diverse metropolitan environment. The programme benefits from faculty with active research portfolios in areas such as bilingualism, neurogenic communication disorders, child language development and AAC. Students have access to the University’s on-campus clinical facilities and to practicum and research partnerships with local hospitals, school districts and community agencies across New York City.

The department emphasises mentorship and professional development, providing structured opportunities for teaching experience, supervised clinical leadership and support for conference travel and publication. Interdisciplinary collaboration is encouraged through connections with allied health, education and neuroscience units at the university, fostering translational research that bridges laboratory, clinic and community practice.