About

The undergraduate Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) prepares students for careers in speech-language pathology, audiology and other related fields. The entry-level degree for licensure and practice as a speech-language pathologist is the master’s degree, while audiologists complete a four-year doctoral degree.

Appalachian’s CSD undergraduate degree provides students with the academic preparation and clinical exposure necessary for graduate study. Academic requirements include 49 semester hours of major coursework, 6 hours of electives, and 15 hours in an academic interest area. The coursework is focused on normal development of speech, language and hearing processes as well as associated disorders.

In the last year of the program, students may participate in a clinical experience at Appalachian’s Charles E. and Geneva S. Scott Scottish Rite Communication Disorders Clinic. This clinical experience is designed to give undergraduate students exposure to individuals with communication disorders.

After Graduation

Following completion of a graduate degree and licensure, speech-language pathologists and audiologists work in a variety of settings including preschool programs, public and private schools, hospitals, nursing homes, community clinics, home health and private practice.

Appalachian has a master’s degree program in Speech-Language Pathology, so many students continue in this program.

Career Exploration website

Career information from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

People

• 

  Faculty Profile: Dr. Angela Losardo

  Dr. Angela Losardo has been a speech-language pathologist for almost 45 years. “Over the course of my career, this profession has provided me with the flexibility to pursue my areas of interest in early literacy and language-based learning problems with clients of all ages,” she said.

  “I have worked as a practitioner in home-based programs, preschools, public schools, residential facilities and hospitals. There are not many professions that offer this type of job flexibility and ongoing opportunities to stretch, learn and grow!”

  Meet more faculty

• 

  Faculty Profile: Dr. Jordan Hazelwood

  As a speech-language pathologist, Hazelwood teaches teamwork, along with strong clinical skills, in treating the whole patient for increased health and quality of life.

Minors

A minor is not required.

View all minors

Engagement Outside the Classroom

• National Student Speech Language Hearing Association (NSSLHA) - a pre-professional membership association for students interested in the study of communication sciences and disorders. National membership is available to undergraduate, graduate or doctoral students enrolled full- or part-time in a communication sciences program or related major.
• ASU American Sign Language Club - a student organization that raises awareness for the deaf community and knowledge of ASL through events and fundraisers.
• Operation Smile club - a student organization in support of the international medical charity.
• Autism Speaks U - a student organization that promotes autism awareness within the local community, acts as an advocate for people with autism and sponsors fundraising events for autism research.

Global Learning

Appalachian is committed to introducing students to different cultures and teaching them how to live and interact in a global society.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the program is highly competitive. Students apply for admission in their sophomore year. Requirements for admission include:

• Have earned at least 45 semester hours and have a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at time admission is offered
• Have obtained a B or higher in CSD 2259 Introduction to Communication Disorders, CSD 2260 Anatomy and Physiology, and a science course of at least 3 semester hours.

See a complete list of requirements