Undergraduate

What is the study of Communication Sciences and Disorders?

Communication Sciences and Disorders includes two disciplines, speech-language pathology and audiology, which have developed out of a concern for people with communication disorders. The academic and clinical curriculum at the undergraduate level includes a wide range of courses and clinical practicum opportunities. Students learn about both normal and disordered communication processes. They also have many opportunities to observe and participate in the assessment and treatment of clients who are served in our CSD clinics. The undergraduate CSD major prepares students to pursue a graduate degree. A master’s degree in speech-language pathology and a clinical doctorate in audiology are required to engage in professional practice.

Why should I consider a Communication Sciences and Disorders Major?

Many people easily talk with family, friends, and colleagues everyday. Although we often take language, speech, and hearing for granted, these processes are extraordinarily complex. Furthermore, anyone at any age can be affected by illness or injury that will impair the ability to talk or hear. In fact, one out of every six Americans has a communication disorder. Each one can be helped in some way by a speech-language pathologist, audiologist, or speech, language, and hearing scientist.

Grounded in the latest scientific theories and research, CSD students learn to assess and treat persons with communication disorders—from infants to the elderly. In labs students have access to state-of-the-art equipment and analysis procedures as they study sound, speech, language, and hearing. Speech-language pathologists and audiologists make a positive contribution to people’s lives. With the changing makeup of our population comes the need for speech-language-hearing professionals who are skilled in working in a complex and diverse society. For people with the proper education and flexibility, employment prospects are excellent. Opportunities and challenges await you!

Read recent articles about job opportunities for speech-language pathologistsand job opportunities for audiologists.

CSD Wait List Policy

The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders reserves the right to manage its wait lists to give priority to students who must take the courses to be on track with the lockstep program and satisfy major requirements.

Need help or information?

You can reach our advisors by email or by making an appointment. If you're on campus, drop by the Academic Instruction Center East wing, AI 394, and talk with Karen Smith, our department manager. She will guide you in arranging an appointment with the appropriate advisor.