Jax State Board Approves New Bachelor's Degree in Speech-Language Pathology
Proposed program aims to address regional workforce needs and prepare students for graduate study beginning in Fall 2027
Jacksonville, AL (10/20/2026) — The Jacksonville State University Board of Trustees has approved a new Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology, expanding the university's health professions offerings and creating new opportunities for students interested in careers helping individuals with communication and swallowing disorders.
The 120-credit-hour degree, housed within the College of Health Professions and Wellness, is planned to launch in Fall 2027, pending approval by the Alabama Commission on Higher Education (ACHE).
The proposed program is designed to address a growing need for speech-language pathologists across Alabama, particularly in rural and underserved communities. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association's 2024 workforce data, Alabama ranks 43rd nationally in speech-language pathologists per capita, with 51.4 professionals per 100,000 residents compared to the national average of 61.9.
"This program represents an important investment in our students and the communities we serve," said Jax State President Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. "By creating opportunities for students to pursue this field close to home, we're helping address a critical workforce need while preparing graduates for meaningful careers that can make a difference in the lives of others."
Speech-language pathologists work with individuals of all ages who experience speech, language, communication and swallowing disorders. These professionals serve in schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, private practices and other healthcare settings.
The profession is experiencing significant growth nationally. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of speech-language pathologists to increase 17 percent from 2025 to 2035, with approximately 12,500 job openings annually.
Jax State's proposed undergraduate curriculum will provide students with foundational knowledge in communication sciences and disorders through coursework in language development, anatomy and physiology, phonetics, audiology, neurological communication disorders, and clinical methods. The degree will primarily prepare students for graduate education, which is required for professional practice as a licensed speech-language pathologist.
The undergraduate degree is also a first step toward establishing a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at Jax State, tentatively planned for Fall 2030. The proposed graduate program would require separate approvals and would create an opportunity for students to complete both undergraduate and graduate preparation at the university.
"Students in our region have a strong interest in speech-language pathology, but access to degree programs can be limited," said Dr. Tracey Matthews, Dean of the College of Health Professions and Wellness. "This program will allow us to build on our existing academic offerings, develop relationships with healthcare providers and school systems, and prepare students to meet a growing need for these services throughout Northeast Alabama."
The proposed degree builds on Jax State's existing speech-language pathology minor and will be supported by developing partnerships with regional school systems, hospitals, rehabilitation providers and community organizations. The university anticipates enrolling approximately 30 students in the program's first year, with enrollment projected to grow to 120 students by 2030.
The Speech and Hearing Association of Alabama has expressed support for the proposed program, citing the need for additional qualified professionals in schools and healthcare settings throughout the state.
With Board approval secured, the university will move forward with the remaining external approval process. The program's anticipated Fall 2027 launch is contingent upon ACHE approval.
Prospective students interested in learning more about the proposed Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology may contact Jax State Undergraduate Admissions at admissions@jsu.edu. For more information on the College of Health Professions and Wellness, visit their website here.
About Jacksonville State University: Founded in 1883 as a state teachers' college, Jacksonville State University has grown from humble beginnings into the Alabama regional university with the highest percentage of accredited programs. Located in the Appalachian foothills midway between Birmingham and Atlanta, Jax State offers more than 150 courses of study, including over 40 online programs, at the undergraduate and graduate levels. To learn more, visit www.jsu.edu, call 1-800-231-JAX1, or e-mail jaxfacts@jsu.edu.
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Josh Underwood, 256-782-8156, underwood@jsu.eduShare this Story
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