Academic Catalog

Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders

The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders offers an undergraduate degree in communication sciences and disorders (CSD) and a graduate degree in speech-language pathology (SLP), a degree that leads to a rewarding career. As a speech-language pathologist, you can give back to the community by helping individuals of all ages who experience communication delays and disorders. As a student in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, you will:

  • Begin your professional career from your very first semester on campus, giving you early insight into the major, the profession and whether SLP is the right fit for you.
  • Gain lots of practical, real-world experience with actual clients - even as an undergraduate - through the state-of-the-art Herndon Clinic.
  • Join the National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association (NSSHLA) and be involved in the organization's activities on campus and in the community.
  • Work closely with faculty in courses, labs and clinical experiences. Graduate students are involved in research under the direction of one of the faculty members.
  • Enjoy small classes and learning alongside a supportive and close-knit group of students.

For more information on the department, feel free to explore the department's web site, or contact us for more information.

Department of Communication Sciences & Disorders Faculty & Staff

See department page online for full listing

Bachelors

Minors

Certificates

Masters

SLP 140  Communication Disorders in Society     (1 Credit)  
This course explores communication disorders as they are presented in society. Specific types of communication disorders will be reviewed with an emphasis on known characteristics of these disorders and how these characteristics may or may not be portrayed in society. The media and literature play an important role on how the general public perceives individuals who present with communication disorders.

  
  
  
  
SLP 160  Introduction to Communication Disorders     (3 Credits)  
The basic course covering speech-language-hearing disorders and intervention methods.

  
  
  
  
SLP 199  Speech Language Pathology Elective  (1-12 Credits)  
This course is designed to receive non-equivalent elective transfer credit.

  
SLP 303  Speech and Hearing Science     (2 Credits)  
Course covering the acoustics and psychoacoustics of sound, phonation, and resonance related to speech and hearing.

  
  
  
  
SLP 305  Anatomy and Physiology: Speech-Hearing Mechanism     (3 Credits)  
Study of the anatomy and physiology of the speech and hearing mechanism.

  
  
  
  
SLP 318  Accent Modification for International Speakers  #  (2 Credits)  

This course provides instruction for the non-native speaker of American English wanting to improve pronunciation and intelligibility. The class involves lecture, oral exercises, and small group practice. This course is not for the student who is beginning to study English and does not guarantee a passing score on the Speaking Proficiency English Assessment Kit (SPEAK) or the Test of Spoken English (TSE).


  
  
  
  
SLP 318L  Accent Modification for International Speakers-Lab  +  (1 Credit)  

The lab allows for individualized instruction and practice. The lab is a one-on-one or small group experience outside of the class scheduled time. This course is not for the student who is beginning to study English and does not guarantee a passing score on the Speaking Proficiency English Assessment Kit (SPEAK) or the Test of Spoken English (TSE).


  
  
  
  
SLP 320  Basic Sign Language     (3 Credits)  

An introductory course in American Sign Language. The course will serve to teach basic sign language for the purpose of communicating with Deaf individuals.


  
  
  
  
SLP 340  Language Science     (3 Credits)  
This course provides majors in Communication Disorders basic knowledge of morphology and syntax to prepare them to analyze spoken and written language.

  
  
  
  
SLP 370  Early Speech and Language Development     (3 Credits)  
Study of the development of the communication process from birth throught the preschool years with emphasis on milestones in the child's development of the phonologic, morphologic, syntactic, semantic, and pragmatic system. Relationships of cognitive and social skills as well as theories of development will be examined.

  
  
  
  
SLP 371  Early Speech and Language Analysis     (1 Credit)  
Application of research-based methods to evaluate the nonverbal and verbal language skills of typically developing children through the pre-school years (i.e. morphology, syntax, semantics and pragmatics).

  
Eligibility Rules: Has completed or currently enrolled in SLP370  
  
  
SLP 399  Speech Language Pathology Elective  (1-12 Credits)  
This course is designed to receive non-equivalent elective transfer credit.

  
SLP 402  Clinical Phonetics     (3 Credits)  
Study of the perception and production of speech sounds. Deals with phoetics as it applies to speech disorders.

  
  
  
  
SLP 414  Independent Study in Communication Disorders  +  (1-3 Credits)  
Students may complete readings, investigate problems, or complete research projects in the area of communication disorders.

  
Eligibility Rules: Permission for SLP414  
  
  
SLP 420  Advanced Sign Language     (3 Credits)  

This course will help individuals communicate with deaf individuals on an intermediate level. It serves to expand the understanding of language through an alternate form of communication.


  
Eligibility Rules: Has completed SLP320  
  
  
SLP 425  Principles of Intervention Speech and Language Dis.     (3 Credits)  
Study of intervention principles and strategies for persons with speech and language disorders across the life span.

  
  
  
  
SLP 426  Introduction to Clinical Procedures  #  (2 Credits)  

Covers basic clinical application of evaluation and intervention procedures in various settings. Students enroll concurrently in clinical practicum.


  
Eligibility Rules: Has completed SLP412  
  
  
SLP 426L  Clinical Practicum  +  (1 Credit)  

Students are to provide clinical services under staff supervision in settings with preschoolers, school-age children and adults. Regular planning and evaluation sessions must be scheduled with clinical supervisors.


  
  
  
  
SLP 428  Clinical Observations and Applications     (3 Credits)  

This course provides an overview of the profession and the assistant's certification process.  Students will discuss information regarding the scope of practice and conduct of the speech-language pathologist and speech-language pathology assistant in the treatment process in various settings. Students will participate in guided therapy sessions, observe clients of various ages with various communication disorders, and gain valuable experience observing and recognizing essential qualities for successful therapy.


  
  
  
  
SLP 429  Seminar/Special Topics for the SLPA     (3 Credits)  

Course will cover the role of the speech-language pathology assistant (SLPA) in the workplace, including necessary clinical interventions and related technical skills. Supervision, ethics, and professional practice of the SLPA will be specifically addressed, as well as current topics/research related to best practices in understanding speech/language disorders and interventions.  


  
  
  
  
SLP 440  Characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorders     (3 Credits)  
The student will identify and briefly describe the general characteristics of autism spectrum disorders and the specific characteristics that may help in making a differential diagnosis among the disorders that compose the spectrum of disorders in this classification system. In addition, students will identify assessment and intervention programs appropriate for children diagnosed as presenting ASD.

  
  
  
  
SLP 450  Autism Spectrum Disorders: Social-Communication     (3 Credits)  
The student will learn to identify the characteristics of individuals who present autism spectrum disorder and the social communication issues presented by these individuals. The student will describe and analyze current assessment and intervention practices in the areas of socialcommunication appropriate for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. This course includes group discussions, in-class applied activities, and the development of tools to be utilized during clinical practice.

  
  
  
  
SLP 464  Audiology     (4 Credits)  
Study of pure-tone audiometry, speech audiometry, and masking. Surveys auditory pathologies and their differential diagnosis. Lab included.

  
  
  
  
SLP 465  Developmental Speech and Language Disorders     (3 Credits)  

This course provides foundational knowledge about speech sound disorders, language disorders, tools that are used to identify speech and language disorders, application activities associated with common types of speech and language disorders, and information about how various interventions are implemented to remediate those disorders.


  
Eligibility Rules: Has completed or is currently enrolled in SLP370 and SLP402  
  
  
SLP 470  Later Language Development     (3 Credits)  
Study of typical language acquisition and development in school-age children and adolescents including research and theory related to later language development in the areas of morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics. Will include discussion of the relationship between reading, writing and language; as well as other variables influencing later language acquisition and learning.

  
Eligibility Rules: Has completed or currently enrolled in SLP370  
  
  
SLP 471  School-Age Speech and Language Analysis     (1 Credit)  
Training in the acquisition, transcription, and analysis of speech and language skills for schoolage students.

  
Eligibility Rules: Has completed or currently enrolled in SLP370  
  
  
SLP 472  Special Populations in Communication Sciences & Disorders  +  (3 Credits)  

This course is an elective, three hour, undergraduate-level course designed to teach students about special populations in the field of communication sciences and disorders.  This course is designed for undergraduates who are interested in  becoming a professional in the field of communication disorders in addition to  students interested in related fields such as education, special education, nursing, psychology, occupational therapy, and other service-related fields.  Students will not only learn about individuals with various disabilities but also how to value these individuals as a whole person in order to provide support in the  area of communication.


  
  
  
  
SLP 480  Principles of Research in Communication Sciences and Disorders     (3 Credits)  

This course provides an introduction to basic topics of scientific research in communication sciences and disorders. The course places emphasis on understanding and critiquing professional research articles and the common statistical methods used to report findings, with special consideration of the role of research in evidence-based practice.


  
Eligibility Rules: Admission to BS in CSD and has completed MATH250  
  
  
SLP 490  Clinical Experience Practicum     (3 Credits)  

Students will provide clinical services under the supervision of an ASHA-certified Speech-Language Pathologist. Clinical services rendered will follow ASHA’s Scope of Practice for Speech-Language Pathology Assistants (SLPA).


  
  
  
  
SLP 610  Principles of Evaluation and Assessment     (3 Credits)  
Principles and methods for diagnosis and appraisal of speech-language disorders with an emphasis on the psychometric properties of standardized tests.

  
  
  
  
SLP 610G  Principles of Evaluation and Assessment     (3 Credits)  
Principles and methods for diagnosis and appraisal of speech-language disorders with an emphasis on the psychometric properties of standardized tests.

  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 617G  Clinical Procedures in Public Schools     (2 Credits)  
Study of current issues and procedures relevant to the clinical practice of speech-language pathology within the public schools of the state and nation.

  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 653G  Articulation/Phonological Disorders     (3 Credits)  
Study of articulatory/phonological disorders, assessment and intervention principles and practices.

  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 663  Managing Hearing Loss in Children and Adults  +  (3 Credits)  
Study of theories and methods for hearing habilitation/rehabilitation including amplification, speech reading, auditory training, hearing aid orientation, and speech and voice conservation for infants through geriatics.

  
Eligibility Rules: Permission for SLP663  
  
  
SLP 663G  Managing Hearing Loss in Children and Adults  +  (3 Credits)  
Study of theories and methods for hearing habilitation/rehabilitation including amplification, speech reading, auditory training, hearing aid orientation, and speech and voice conservation for infants through geriatics.

  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 664  Hearing Loss in Older Adults     (2 Credits)  
This course is intended to provide an overview of hearing loss in older adults. An explanation of causes of hearing loss in this population and communication strategies to use will be discussed. It may be used as an elective within the SLP undergraduate major or an elective in the SLP graduate program, but will not replace SLP 464.

  
Eligibility Rules: Junior Level Standing - 60 Semester Units  
  
  
SLP 664G  Hearing Loss in Older Adults     (2 Credits)  
This course is intended to provide an overview of hearing loss in older adults. An explanation of causes of hearing loss in this population and communication strategies to use will be discussed. It may be used as an elective within the SLP undergraduate major or an elective in the SLP graduate program, but will not replace SLP 464.

  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 665  Communication and Aging     (2 Credits)  
Course designed to present the effects of the normal aging process on communication skills of older adults. Facilitation techniques enhancing communication exchanges among family members and other professionals working with older adults will be stressed.

  
Eligibility Rules: Junior Level Standing - 60 Semester Units  
  
  
SLP 665G  Communication and Aging     (2 Credits)  
Course designed to present the effects of the normal aging process on communication skills of older adults. Facilitation techniques enhancing communication exchanges among family members and other professionals working with older adults will be stressed.

  
  
  
  
SLP 672  Problems in Speech Language Pathology  +  (1-5 Credits)  

Individual study of a non-research problem.


  
Eligibility Rules: Permission for SLP672  
  
  
SLP 672G  Problems in Speech-Language Pathology  +  (1-5 Credits)  
Individual study of a non-research problem.

  
  
  
  
SLP 682  Readings in Speech-Language Pathology  +  (1-3 Credits)  
Readings and written reports on special topics in speech-language pathology.

  
Eligibility Rules: Permission for SLP682  
  
  
SLP 682G  Readings in Speech Language Pathology  +  (1-3 Credits)  

Readings and written reports on special topics in speech-language pathology.


  
  
  
  
SLP 801  Graduate Practicum I  +  (1-3 Credits)  
This practicum represents the first semester of enrollment for graduate students. Students will learn the clinical processes involved in the clinical management of cases (Code of Ethics, Clinic Handbook, etc.). Since this is the first clinical enrollment for graduate students, supervision, which will be adjusted according to the needs of the student and the client(s) being served.

  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 802  Graduate Practicum II  +  (1-3 Credits)  
This practicum represents the second semester of enrollment for graduate students. Students will be expected to demonstrate the skills from Graduate Practicum I and demonstrate independence under frequent supervision, which will be adjusted according to the needs of the student and the client(s) being served.

  
Eligibility Rules: Graduate level and has completed or currently enrolled in SLP801  
  
  
SLP 803  Graduate Practicum III  +  (1-3 Credits)  
This practicum represents the third semester of enrollment for graduate students. Students at this level will be expected to demonstrate the skills from Graduate Practicum I and II and will be able to explain their rationale for clinical decisions and revise clinical goals and strategies as needed. The student will explain the clinical processes and will demonstrate consistent ability to make clinical decisions under the supervision of credentialed individuals, which will be adjusted according to the needs of the student and the client(s) being served.

  
Eligibility Rules: Graduate level and has completed or currently enrolled in SLP802  
  
  
SLP 804  Graduate Practicum IV  +  (1-3 Credits)  
This enrollment represents the forth and subsequent semesters of enrollment for graduate students. Students will continue to enroll in the level until the externship enrollment. This practicum is also supervised by credentialed individuals, which will be adjusted according to the needs of the student and the client(s) being served.

  
Eligibility Rules: Graduate level and has completed or currently enrolled in SLP803  
  
  
SLP 805  Practicum in Evaluation and Assessment  +  (1 Credit)  
Students will be involved with clinical evaluations within the clinical education program.

  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 806  Graduate Practicum in Healthcare  +  (2 Credits)  

Students will enroll in the program during the semester they are enrolled in the healthcare practicum prior to externship experience. This practicum is supervised be credentialed individuals, which will be adjusted according to the needs of the student and the client(s) being served.


  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 807  Aural Rehabilitation Clinical Experience     (1 Credit)  
A required lab which provides supervised clinical experience in aural rehabilitation.

  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 809  Education Externship     (6 Credits)  
Student will complete a minimum of an 8 week practicum at an educational facility working along side an ASHA certified speech-language pathologist in the evaluation and treatment of patients at the facility(s).

  
Eligibility Rules: Has completed SLP803, Graduate level  
  
  
SLP 810  Professional Issues in SLP  +  (2 Credits)  
Presents principles and methods in clinical areas such as private practice, self-assessments, training of paraprofessionals, roles as a consultant, resource person, and multidisciplinary team member.

  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 811  Medical Externship  +  (6 Credits)  
Student will complete a minimum of an 8 week practicum at a medical facility working alongside a ASHA certified speech-language pathologist in the evaluation and treatment of patients at the facility.

  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 812  Clinical Collaboration in Speech-Language Pathology     (2 Credits)  
This course provides a broad overview of contemporary issues related to working with families and clients with communication disorders, supervision of student clinicians and/or paraprofessionals, and interprofessional practice (IPP) with other professionals in education and mediacal settings to gain Interprofessional Experience (IPE). This course includes group discussions, in-class applied activities, and the development of tools to be utilized during clinical practice.

  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 813  Assessment & Intervention in Diverse Populations  +  (2 Credits)  

Presents principles and procedures in assessment and intervention for speech-language pathologists working with persons from diverse populations.


  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 814  Independent Study in Communication Disorders  +  (1-3 Credits)  
Provides advanced students an opportunity to complete in-depth readings, investigate problems, or complete research projects in the area of communication disorders.

  
Eligibility Rules: Permission for SLP814, Graduate level  
  
  
SLP 815  Autism Spectrum Disorders: Social-Communication     (3 Credits)  

The student will summarize the characteristics of individuals who present autism spectrum disorder and the social-communication issues presented by these individuals. The student will analyze and apply current assessment and intervention practice appropriate for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. This course includes group discussions, in-class applied activities, and the development of tools to be utilized in clinical practice.


  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 816  Clinical Practicum in Audiology  +  (1 Credit)  
Provides supervised clinical evaluation experience in the area of audiology.

  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 817  Research in Communication Sciences and Disorders     (3 Credits)  

Course introduces students to graduate study and examines methods of research in communication sciences and disorders.


  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 820  Research Development     (1 Credit)  
Graduate students in Communication Sciences and Disorders will assist in developing an individual or group research project related to clinical practice with the guidance of a graduate faculty research advisor.

  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 822  Applied Research Experience     (2 Credits)  
Students will assist in the completion of a research project culminating in an oral presentation individually or as a group at the end of the semester.

  
Eligibility Rules: Has completed SLP817, SLP820, Graduate level  
  
  
SLP 834  Dysphagia     (2 Credits)  
Focus on trends and issues for speech-language pathologists related to assessment and intervention with individuals across the across the life span presenting with swallowing disorders. Students will integrate and refine skills in evaluation, assessment, and planning of intervention programs for these disorders.

  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 835  Augmentative and Alternative Communication     (2 Credits)  

Course designed to present information on augmentative-alternative communication (AAC) with emphasis on various AAC systems and strategies available for individuals with severe communication disabilities. The assessment and intervention process for AAC will be presented.


  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 836  Advanced Audiology for the SLP     (2 Credits)  
Study of audiometric theories and practice related to the scope of practice for speechlanguage pathologists.

  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 840  Speech Sound Disorders: Assessment & Intervention     (2 Credits)  
This course provides advanced study of speech sound disorders in children. The following disorders will be examined and include the study of assessment and intervention of articulation and phonological disorders, childhood apraxia of speech, cleft palate, oral myofunctional disorders, speech of the deaf/hard of hearing.

  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 855  Fluency Disorders     (2 Credits)  
Study of various theories and treatments for fluency disorders. Examines assessment procedures.

  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 856  Voice and Motor Speech Disorders     (3 Credits)  
Study of acquired disorders related to the speech mechanism including respiration, resonance, phonation, and articulation.

  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 862  Language Disorders: Early Language     (2 Credits)  
Evaluation, assessment and intervention practices for persons in the early stages of language development (i.e. early words to simple sentences).

  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 863  Language Disorders: Later Language     (2 Credits)  
Evaluation and intervention practices for persons with language disorders in the later stages of language development (i.e., complex language).

  
Eligibility Rules: Has completed SLP862, Graduate level  
  
  
SLP 869  Topics in Speech-Language Pathology/Audiology  +  (1-3 Credits)  
Current topics in speech-language pathology are studied. Topics will vary.

  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 882  Seminar in Speech-Language Pathology  +  (1-3 Credits)  
Designed to give graduate students an opportunity for in-depth study into any area of speechlanguage hearing.

  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 889  Neuroanatomy     (2 Credits)  
An overview of the anatomy and physiology of the central and peripheral nervous systems, with emphasis on the neurologic control of cognitive, language and speech processes. Students are introduced to the types of neurological impairments that may result in disorders of speech, language, and related functions.

  
Eligibility Rules: Academic level is Masters, EdS, Grad Non-Degree OR Doctoral  
  
  
SLP 890  Cognitive Linguistic Communication Disorders     (3 Credits)  
Students will differentiate cognitive linguistic communication disorders on the basis of the site of neurologic damage and patterns of behavioral communication characteristics. Students will integrate and refine skills in the evaluation, assessment, and planning of intervention programs.

  
Eligibility Rules: Has completed SLP889, Graduate level  
  
  
SLP 899  Thesis in Speech-Language Pathology  +  (1-6 Credits)  
Will provide an additional option for the student that has only minor revisions in order to complete thesis.

  
Eligibility Rules: Permission for SLP899, Graduate level