Purdue speech-language pathology and audiology graduate programs advance to No. 2 and No. 5 among nation’s top programs 

Written By: Rebecca Hoffa, rhoffa@purdue.edu 

Whether it’s hearing loss or language challenges, swallowing difficulties or dizziness, the Purdue University Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences’ (SLHS) clinical graduate programs are training the next generation of professionals to improve lives as they address a broad range of communication, hearing, swallowing and balance challenges.  

Recently ranked No. 2 and No. 5 respectively by U.S. News & World Report, the speech-language pathology and audiology graduate programs have been named among the top in the nation for their excellence in high-quality clinical experiences, challenging coursework and cutting-edge research opportunities.  

“SLHS is incredibly proud of the recognition our audiology and speech-language pathology programs have received in the latest rankings,” said Jennifer Simpson, SLHS clinical professor and interim head. “This achievement reflects the passion and expertise of our faculty, staff and students. It’s a testament to the outstanding education we provide and our commitment to advancing the fields through research and clinical training. We are excited to continue building on this success and to prepare future leaders in audiology and speech-language pathology.” 

The five-semester clinical master’s program and four-year clinical doctorate offer students abundant experiential learning opportunities. In the department’s M.D. Steer Speech, Language, and Hearing Clinics, students learn to address everything from voice disorders to tinnitus to mild cognitive impairment and beyond. 

Integrated within the College of Health and Human Sciences (HHS), the programs have abundant interdisciplinary opportunities that stretch across research labs, clinics and interprofessional education, allowing students to understand their profession more deeply within the scope of health care, education and other fields in which they could find themselves working. 

“As two of the top programs of their kind in the United States, the exceptional speech-language pathology and audiology programs are preparing students to provide vitally important care that is fundamental to human health and well-being,” said Aaron Bowman, HHS dean and professor of health sciences. “The excellence of our faculty and students continues to advance the rankings that set Purdue apart as a leader in these areas.” 

For SLHS senior Kelsey Smart, who is the 2025 Flora Roberts Award recipient and an incoming speech-language pathology graduate student, the distinction of Purdue’s Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences made her graduate school decision an easy one. She noted that the department creates a high-caliber and supportive environment that helps students thrive. 

“It is a beautiful trifecta of science, teaching and inclusion,” Smart said. “Purdue is so highly ranked, and I want to be taught by the best. I’m very happy with where I’ve ended up.”