New partnership between Dordt and Calvin expands path to Speech-Language Pathology studies

In response to growing interest in the field of speech-language pathology, Dordt University and Calvin University have partnered to offer students a comprehensive yet flexible academic track for pre-speech-language pathology.

This new academic track enables students to complete the prerequisite coursework required for admission to a master’s program in speech-language pathology without significant changes to their four-year plans. “This collaboration opens a direct and accessible pathway for Dordt students to pursue a career in speech-language pathology without the burden of taking additional courses after graduation,” says Joe Bakker, dean of online, graduate, and partner programs at Dordt University.

To fulfill the track requirements, students must complete six prerequisite courses, totaling 24 credits. These courses are offered fully online during the fall, spring, and summer semesters, giving students the flexibility to incorporate them into their four-year academic plans alongside their major requirements.

“This allows students to remain at Dordt but learn from the nationally ranked speech-pathology program at Calvin University,” explains Dr. Kyle Small, dean of graduate studies at Calvin. “The​ program serves Dordt students who are discerning a future in speech-language and audiology professions and creates a clear, supportive pipeline from undergraduate exploration to graduate-level preparation.”

“This creative and mission-driven partnership is a stewardly way for us to explore student interest while continuing to deliver high-quality, faith-based instruction,” explains Eric Tudor, director of emerging markets at Dordt University. “Dordt students can remain fully immersed in our Christ-centered community while acquiring relevant prerequisites from our partners at Calvin University. It’s a unique model that combines spiritual formation with academic excellence.”

“The program both expands educational opportunity and cultivates a broader community of learners who are passionate about serving others through communication sciences,” adds Small. “It’s one more way institutions of higher education are seeking to collaborate for the sake of our students by leveraging distinct assets. It’s a tangible expression of what it means to be co-laborers in Christian higher education.”

While students across a range of majors may choose to pursue this track, those studying psychology, education, or language studies may find this specialization especially enriching. “Completing these six courses through our partnership will allow a student to apply to nearly any accredited master’s program in the United States,” explains Tudor. “From there, students might go on to become speech-language pathologists or enter related fields in education and healthcare.”

Through partnerships like this, Dordt continues to provide students with meaningful opportunities to deepen their knowledge and develop the skills they need to thrive in their future callings. “There’s a significant and growing shortage of speech-language pathologists across the country, particularly in rural communities—many of which are where our students come from or plan to return to,” says Tudor. “Unlike other healthcare and professional fields that are increasingly saturated, speech-language pathology continues to be in high demand, making it a promising and impactful career path.”

“This is more than a logistical agreement,” adds Small. “It’s a relational bridge, inviting us to think creatively about how we can support students who are discerning callings in places that need compassionate and competent professionals.”

About Dordt University

As an institution of higher education committed to the Reformed Christian perspective, Dordt University equips students, faculty, alumni, and the broader community to work toward Christ-centered renewal in all aspects of contemporary life. Located in Sioux Center, Iowa, Dordt is a comprehensive university named to the best college lists by the Wall Street Journal, Times Higher Education, Forbes.com, Washington Monthly, and Princeton Review.