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Communication Disorders & Sciences

The EIU CDS graduate program trains speech-language pathologists who are successful in the profession. Through case based teaching, mentored clinical experiences and full semester internships, students are well-prepared to pass national exams and excel in medical, educational, or private practice settings.

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Communication Disorders & Sciences

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Degree Level
Master of Science
Delivery
In Person
Time to Degree
6 semesters (2 summer, 2 fall, 2 spring)
Credit Hours
58 Total
Careers
Postsecondary, Pathologists, Audiologists
Communication Disorders & Sciences students at EIU

Why Study Communication Disorders & Sciences at EIU?

  • Case based teaching and clinically focused courses
  • Open door policy - faculty are accessible and ready to mentor
  • Full semester internships in second year of program
  • 100% Praxis pass rate and scores above state and national averages
"From the moment I stepped onto campus, every professor, staff member, and student I encountered treated me with such genuine warmth and respect, as if I were already a valued member of their community. Despite not having officially joined the EIU family, I immediately felt a deep sense of belonging. The atmosphere was one of comfort and inclusivity, where everyone seemed genuinely invested in my success and well-being."
Abbey McCord
Communication Disorders & Sciences | Class of 2025
Abbey McCord, Communication Disorders & Sciences at EIU

Hands-On Experience

  • On campus clinic and opportunities in local schools
  • Hands-on learning through simulations
  • Research experience/project within a clinical experience
  • Grand Rounds course prepares you for internships
Explore Courses
Hands-On Experience, Communication Disorders & Sciences students at EIU

What You'll Learn

The graduate program in Communication Disorders and Sciences (CDS) culminates in a masters of science degree and prepares recipients to assume entry-level positions as speech-language pathologists.

View in Catalog
$61,989
Median Salary 4 Years After Graduation

Career Outcomes

  • Health Specialties Teachers,…
  • Speech-Language Pathologists
  • Audiologists

Career Insights

Job Outlook ★ Bright Outlook Grow Rapidly
Preparation Needed Extensive (5/5)
Personality Fit Social

Financing Your Degree Under the 2026 Rules

Federal graduate lending changed on July 1, 2026 - Grad PLUS loans ended for new borrowers and new federal borrowing caps now apply to graduate students. Here's why the math still works at EIU:

Estimated total for this degree: ~$29,290 (tuition and fees)

  • ✓ That's only about 29% of the new $100,000 lifetime graduate borrowing limit - leaving room for whatever comes next in your career.
  • ✓ A typical full-time year here runs about $9,090 - well under the new $20,500 annual federal loan limit, so federal loans alone can cover tuition and fees.
  • ✓ Working? If your employer offers it, they can provide up to $5,250 per year tax-free toward your education - at EIU's rates, that can cover a good share of a part-time master's.

Estimates use 2026-2027 Illinois-resident tuition and fees and typical full-time enrollment. Your actual costs and aid depend on your program, enrollment, FAFSA, and prior borrowing.

Talk to EIU Financial Aid →
29% of lifetime limit

$29,290 total, just 29% of your $100,000 federal graduate borrowing limit

Connect With Us

Dr. Nichole Mulvey, Department Chair
Chair, Communication Disorders & Sciences
namulvey@eiu.edu
Human Services Center 2213
217-581-2712
Dr. Nichole Mulvey, Department Chair Message Dr. Mulvey

Message Dr. Mulvey

or email namulvey@eiu.edu directly
Dr. Angela Anthony, Graduate Coordinator
Program Contact
cds_grad@eiu.edu
Human Services Center 2203
217-581-1146
Dr. Angela Anthony, Graduate Coordinator Message Dr. Anthony

Message Dr. Anthony

or email cds_grad@eiu.edu directly
Billy Panther
Head of Panther Pride
Old Main
217-581-2223
Billy the Panther Message Billy

Message Billy

or email billy@eiu.edu directly

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