Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders (Health and Human Development)

This major offers a comprehensive program of study for preparing students who want to become speech-language pathologists or audiologists. The curriculum is specifically designed for the sole purpose of preparing undergraduate students for graduate study in communication sciences and disorders or related areas. This occurs because state licensure laws and professional certifications require that a speech-language pathologist or audiologist must have a master's degree, pass a national test, and complete a clinical fellowship year.

Overall, the curriculum enables students to develop fundamental knowledge based on scientific principles, skills, and attitudes required for habilitating and rehabilitating persons of all ages with a wide range of speech, language, and hearing problems. Further, the curriculum allows students an opportunity to explore all aspects of communication sciences and disorders as well as elect courses of special interest.

The first two years of study emphasize general education and background study. The last two years of study emphasize normal and disordered aspects of speech, language, and hearing as well as professional management, concerns, and obligations. Clinical observation and diversity focused coursework are included in the curriculum.