The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine’s (UNR Med) Speech-Language Pathology master’s program has earned national recognition in the latest U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Schools rankings, climbing to No. 104 among SLP programs nationwide. The ranking reflects the program’s continued growth and commitment to preparing highly skilled clinicians through innovative health care education and clinical training. 

UNR Med’s SLP program offers students a distinct educational experience that sets it apart from many traditional speech-language pathology programs. According to Mark Guiberson, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, chair of the Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology, the program’s placement in the national rankings reflects its commitment to excellence and providing students with early exposure to real-world experiences.  

“What really sets our SLP program apart is that we’re housed within the School of Medicine,” Guiberson said. “That gives us a strong medical focus, so students aren’t just getting a bit of information on clinical populations — they’re immersed in coursework and training from day one.” 

This approach equips students with clinical competence in specialized areas including, for example, feeding and swallowing disorders. Graduates leave the program prepared to work confidently with patients across a range of clinical settings. 

Over the past year, the department has implemented several major improvements designed to strengthen student learning and advance the program’s long-term mission. Faculty completed a full review and refinement of the curriculum to ensure students develop knowledge and clinical competencies in a more intentional and cohesive way. 

The department has also expanded its research efforts, with faculty leading work in areas such as Aphasia, Parkinson’s disease, swallowing disorders, autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disorders. These projects contribute to the field while creating meaningful opportunities for students. 

Partnerships with Renown Health continue to play a key role in the program’s growth, helping expand clinical training opportunities while increasing access to speech, language and hearing services throughout Nevada. 

Looking ahead, the department is developing new academic offerings, including a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant program and a Doctor of Audiology program.  

For Guiberson, the ranking reflects years of faculty dedication and reinforces the department’s momentum. 

“Honestly, it feels great,” Guiberson said. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see our faculty’s hard work recognized by peers across the country. Our program really is a gem.” 

As UNR Med continues to expand its academic and clinical offerings, this national recognition serves as both a milestone and motivation to further strengthen speech pathology and audiology education in Nevada.