Communication Sciences and Disorders, BA

Communication Sciences and Disorders, College of Humanities and Social Sciences

65 Credits

Introduction/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 study normal communication processes and disorders. Courses in normal processes include Language Development, Speech Acoustics, Hearing Science, and Anatomy and Physiology. Courses regarding disorders cover Language Disorders, Phonological Disorders, and Hearing Disorders, for example. The undergraduate education prepares students to pursue a graduate degree. A master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology or a clinical doctorate degree in Audiology and certification at the national level are required to engage in professional practice.

Why Consider a Communications Sciences and Disorders Major? 

Many people easily talk with family, friends, and colleagues every day. 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! 

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):

Admissions: To declare the major, students must have completed the following requirements:

• Completed at least 75 credits
• Successfully completed or be currently enrolled in CSD 251
• Achieved a Western GPA (based on at least 12 credits) of 2.7 or higher (A grade of at least B- (2.7) in each of the core courses (CSD 251, 352, 354, and 356) may substitute for the overall 2.7 GPA)

Application deadlines: Students must begin the lock-step major in the fall quarter (usually the junior year) in order to complete the series of required courses within two years.

Advising Tips: Enroll in CSD 251 to learn more about this major. Students must complete at least one course in Biological Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Mathematics during undergraduate study to meet certification requirements. Contact a CSD undergraduate advisor with questions.

Grade Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.