Speech-language pathologists and audiologists specialize in the study and treatment of human communication disorders. They work in a variety of professional settings such as public and private schools, hospitals, community clinics, universities, nursing homes, and other health care facilities, as well as in private practice. Speech-language pathologists and audiologists work with all ages, from infants to the elderly.
The minimum entry-level qualification for professional practice in the field of speech-language pathology is a master’s degree. The minimum entry-level qualification for professional practice in the field of audiology is a clinical doctorate (Au.D.). The undergraduate curriculum in communication disorders is designed to provide instruction in the basic components of the discipline and to prepare the student for entrance into a graduate training program in communication sciences and disorders or other related fields, such as occupational therapy.
The undergraduate student will study the basic speech and hearing sciences and the normal human communication process, as well as the theoretical and practical aspects of therapy. Clinical observations are required, and a clinical methods class will prepare the student for beginning work in graduate school. The school practicum experience occurs at the graduate level; however, it is strongly recommended that students take the necessary coursework for school licensure at the undergraduate level. These courses can be taken as electives.
Admittance to the undergraduate degree program is restricted to those applicants meeting the following requirements:
- A minimum GPA of 2.5 in CDIS 1230 and CDIS 2250 , with no grade lower than a “C”;
- Completion of a speech-hearing screening exam;
- An overall GPA of 2.5 after 30 hours.
For a student to remain in the CDIS degree program once admitted, s/he must have:
- Minimum grade of “C” in all CDIS courses completed;
- 2.5 GPA in the degree core courses;
- 2.5 GPA overall
A 2.50 GPA is required for graduation. All degree core courses must be taken for a grade, except for those courses graded only “S/U.”
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the baccalaureate degree, students in communication sciences and disorders are expected to:
- Identify basic principles of biological and physical sciences, mathematics, and social and behavioral sciences as they relate to problems in communication sciences and disorders.
- Apply information in basic human communication processes to disorders thereof.
- Critically evaluate problems in human communication and its disorders.
- Create solutions by researching, evaluating, and communicating evidence-based approaches to critical problems in communication sciences and disorders.
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