COURSE CURRICULUM

The Communicative Disorders Assistant (CDA) program offers a comprehensive three-semester curriculum designed to provide students with the theoretical knowledge and practical experience needed to support Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists in a variety of settings. In Academic Semester 1, students begin with foundational courses such as Articulation and Phonology (CDAP 100), and Child Language Acquisition and Related Disorders 1 (CDAP 101), which introduce the typical development of speech and language and how disorders in these areas manifest in children. Audiology 1: Introduction to Audiology (CDAP 110) offers an overview of hearing science and assessment techniques. Students also study Augmentative and Alternative Communication (CDAP 1000), which explores communication strategies and technologies for individuals with severe communication impairments. Principles of Therapy and Programming and Special Populations (CDAP 1001) prepares students to design and adapt therapy plans, while Clinical and Professional Issues 1 (PROF 1000) introduces ethical, legal, and workplace considerations. In Academic Semester 2, students complete their first field placement (INTN 100), applying their skills in real-world settings. They also continue with Child Language Acquisition and Related Disorders 2 (CDAP 301), delve into Adult Neurogenic Disorders and Rehabilitation 1 (REHA 1000), and advance their professional understanding in Clinical and Professional Issues 2 (PROF 300). In the final semester, students explore Fluency and Voice Disorders (CDAP 340), learning to support clients with stuttering and voice impairments, and deepen their audiology training through Audiology 2: Amplification Systems and Aural Rehabilitation (CDAP 350), which focuses on hearing aids and strategies for aural rehabilitation. Field Placement 2 (INTN 200) provides another immersive experience in a clinical environment, while Adult Neurogenic Disorders and Rehabilitation 2 (REHA 2000) further explores treatment strategies for adults with acquired communication disorders. Together, these courses and placements ensure graduates are well-prepared to work as competent and compassionate communicative disorders assistants.