4 Plus B.S./M.S. in Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences

In the 4-Plus B.S.M.S. in Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences (formerly Communication Sciences and Disorders) program, you will gain the knowledge and practical skills to start a career in a helping profession, such as speech-language pathologist or audiologist, or to continue on to graduate school to earn your Ph.D. You will develop the ability to think critically, evaluate data, engage in scientific reasoning, and write and present professionally. Whether you want to work alongside an autistic child, help students learn to read in the classroom, or help individuals stay part of the conversation as they age, this degree will help you achieve your goals.What you will do:Understand how humans learn to communicate with each otherApply scientific principles to the basics of diagnosing and treating speech, language, and hearing disordersParticipate in real-life clinical intervention in the on-campus Speech-Language-Hearing CenterExplore the connections among culture, language, and societyParticipate in faculty research initiatives on topics such as fluency disorders, hearing loss, adult language disorders, cognitive disorders, and autism, among othersDiscover the positive impact you can have on the lives of people who have difficulty communicating with othersDemonstrate knowledge of the etiology, characteristics, assessment, prevention, and intervention of communication disordersGain knowledge and skills of the science underlying human communication, including anatomy and physiology, speech science, phonetics, language science, and hearing scienceThis program will immerse you in an academically rigorous and challenging course of study. You will learn about the normal development and processes of speech, language, and hearing, as well as its disorders across the lifespan. In addition to the courses offered within the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, you will take courses in biological sciences, physical sciences, behavioral sciences, and mathematics.The curriculum allows you the opportunity to study abroad or be part of the National Student Exchange. The second semester of year one or the first semester of year two or three are good choices for these pursuits. You must plan your semester away with your department advisor at least one year in advance to assure that you complete your major requirements in a timely manner.