COURSE CURRICULUM

The undergraduate Communication Disorders program provides a structured, multi-year academic plan designed to prepare students for advanced graduate study and future professional careers in speech-language pathology and audiology. Across the four-year curriculum, students build a strong foundation in communication sciences, human development, language, psychology, and biological sciences while also completing specialized Communication Disorders (CDIS) coursework and supervised learning experiences. In the freshman year, students are introduced to core subjects such as introductory communication disorders, psychology, biology, mathematics, and foundational communication courses, along with general education requirements like history, philosophy, and English composition. This early stage emphasizes broad academic development and scientific understanding of human communication systems. The sophomore year expands into more advanced supporting disciplines including human development, statistics, literature, physics, and health-related studies, while also strengthening analytical and critical thinking skills needed for clinical training. Students continue progressing through science-based and communication-focused coursework that prepares them for upper-level specialization. In the junior year, the curriculum shifts toward intensive Communication Disorders coursework, where students study speech, language, and hearing processes in greater depth and begin integrating theoretical knowledge with applied learning. Additional support electives help students tailor their academic path based on their interests and career goals. By the senior year, students engage in advanced CDIS courses that emphasize clinical preparation, assessment techniques, intervention strategies, and real-world application of evidence-based practice. This stage is designed to consolidate learning and prepare students for graduate school admission requirements. Overall, the program combines rigorous academics with a strong foundation in science and communication, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for competitive graduate programs and future professional roles in healthcare, education, and clinical settings focused on communication and hearing disorders.