The Doctoral Student Summit

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Stuttering Coursework

From: Jennifer Lawrence
Date: 10/11/02
Time: 4:51:53 PM
Remote Name: 67.201.166.87

Comments

As a masters student at West Virginia University I feel preiviledged that our program offers course work in the study of stuttering and fluency related disorders. One course is at the undergraduate level and the other is at the masters level, both of which are required courses for graduation from our program. I cannot imagine beginning a career as an SLP without some background in stuttering assessment and treatment. We are also lucky to have a large number of individuals who stutter receiving treatment in our clinic and most graduate students are assigned at least one stuttering client before they graduate. I have worked with two individuals who stutter and do not yet feel as comfortable or competent as I do working with other disorders.

I'd also like to comment on the lack of doctoral students in the field of Speech Pathology. I feel that this is partially the fault of the professors. As students we are made to feel that the masters degree is the terminal degree in our field and that we're just supposed to graduate and go find a job. Professors never really mention the opportunities for pursuing a doctoral degree or participating in research. Yes, research opportunities are available to students, but they are not encouraged and professors often act suprised when a student mentions wanting to do research or pursue a doctoral degree! I think more students would be interested in higher education if we were just given some information. Even simple information like what schools have doctoral programs and what is required to apply and be accepted??

Finally, I'd like to commend you on the great initiative you have taken in the field.


Last changed: September 12, 2005