EMU Today

YPSILANTI — Eastern Michigan University’s College of Health and Human Services and College of Education graduate programs have been ranked among the 2024 Best Graduate Schools by U.S. News & World Report. The ranking highlights EMU's performance across twelve key disciplines, including social work, occupational therapy, and speech-language pathology. 

Eastern ranked No. 65 in occupational therapy, No. 136 in speech-language pathology, and No. 142 in social work, qualifying the programs to join the U.S. News “best” rankings. 

"It’s always a pleasure to witness Eastern’s graduate school and programs recognized among the best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report,” said Jennifer Fritz, dean of EMU's College of Health and Human Services. “Our graduate schools provide rigorous and flexible training, empowering professionals to advance in their careers. We consistently adapt to the evolving educational landscape in Michigan and across the nation, and these rankings affirm our commitment to meeting the diverse needs of today's graduate students. "

Ranked No. 65, the EMU occupational therapy program has produced numerous distinguished scholars and practitioners who have significantly contributed to the field. Graduates of the program have excelled in various occupational therapy roles, including clinical practice, education, and professional leadership. With a comprehensive curriculum spanning 71 credit hours over 2.5 years of full-time study, students benefit from personalized support, ample research opportunities, and extensive fieldwork experiences.

The master of social work program at EMU holds the 142nd spot on the Best Graduate Schools list. The Council on Social Work Education-accredited program equips social workers to address societal challenges with tailored education pathways for varying academic backgrounds, in addition to offering part-time and full-time tracks. Candidates with a bachelor of social work and a minimum GPA of 2.75 overall or 3.0 in their last 60 credits qualify for advanced standing, completing 35 hours of advanced coursework toward their master of social work degree.

Eastern’s master of arts in speech-language pathology was ranked No. 136. The program prepares graduates for employment in a variety of speech-language settings. Candidates pursuing a graduate degree in the Communication Sciences and Disorders program at EMU must meet specific requirements. These include fulfilling clinical and academic criteria for American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) certification, completing a minimum of 60 approved graduate credit hours, and other requirements.

“Our master of arts in speech-language pathology program consistently ranks among the nation's best and equips graduates with the knowledge and skills to excel in diverse clinical settings,” said Ryan Gildersleeve, dean of the College of Education at EMU. “We ensure our students meet all the academic and clinical requirements for ASHA certification, preparing them for successful careers in communication sciences and disorders." 

U.S. News evaluates schools based on student engagement, faculty credentials, and services and technology. The U.S. News Best Graduate Schools rankings encompass various disciplines, showcasing institutions' strengths across various academic areas. 

For more information about Eastern Michigan University's graduate programs and its rankings in the U.S. News Best Graduate Schools 2024, visit the website.

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.