Overview
The Communication Sciences & Disorders department offers a Master of Science in speech-language pathology, a traditional Bachelor of Arts in communication sciences and disorders, and the accelerated Bachelor of Science in communication sciences and disorders to MS (3+2) program. The department also offers a Minor in communication sciences and disorders.
Please note: The accelerated 3+2 Program requires a two-step admissions process. This includes academic acceptance to the University, followed by an invited interview with the CS&D program for qualified applicants.
Vision
To be recognized as a leader in the advancement and practice of speech language pathology through innovative teaching and research, mentored professional practice, and ethical preparation enabling students to construct new ideas and to lead lives of impact.
Mission
To provide a transformative learning experience consistent with the University’s core values of gentleness, humility, gratitude, hospitality and wisdom.
Program Goals
Students and graduates of the DeSales University programs in Communication Sciences and Disorders will:
- Practice with a compassion and understanding that exemplifies Salesian and Christian humanistic values of gentleness, humility, and simplicity for every person in their care
- Integrate theoretical knowledge of foundational and clinical sciences in communication and swallowing disorders with evidence-based practice in the creation and implementation of effective and contemporary treatment plans
- Communicate effectively with a spirit of camaraderie and collaboration as productive members of an inter-professional healthcare team
- Respect the uniqueness of cultural beliefs and values that influence interpersonal communication and behavior in a complex healthcare environment
- Consider the patient holistically in the context of family, community, and society, and incorporate ethical principles into a patient-focused practice
- Engage in critical inquiry and scholarly activities within clinical practice that lead to innovation in the profession and a personal plan for lifelong learning
- Adopt a servant-leadership attitude to initiate and advocate for changes in health policy toward health promotion, disease prevention, wellness, and equitable access to care
- Function competently in a variety of clinical settings upon entry into the field
Undergraduate Program Student Learning Outcomes
Consistent with the University’s learning outcomes, the Communication Sciences and Disorders major will enable its students to demonstrate:
- Content mastery across the pre-professional speech and hearing sciences curriculum
- Understanding of clinical processes to prepare for graduate level academic work and clinical training.
- The knowledge and skills necessary to access and critically evaluate scholarly research
- The ability to communicate scientific information in written and oral form to diverse audiences
- Salesian values through ethical behavior and practice excellence in the areas of quality, safety, and professional accountability
- A personal philosophy and professional development plan for future practice that acknowledges intentions for life-long learning
Academic Requirements
Language Requirements
International applicants should refer to the language requirements detailed in International Students of the Undergraduate Catalog.
Required Courses for the BA & BS in Communication Sciences & Disorders
In addition to the general education requirements of the Connections Curriculum, the required major courses are:
Major Courses
- CSD 105 Introduction to Communication Sciences & Disorders (3 credits)
- CSD 115 Language Science (Linguistics) (3 credits)
- CSD 125 Language Development (3 credits)
- CSD 205 Introduction to Audiology (3 credits)
- CSD 215 Phonetics (3 credits)
- CSD 225 Anatomy & Physiology of the Speech Mechanism (4 credits)
- CSD 305 Speech Science (4 credits)
- CSD 315 Intro to Communication Disorders (3 credits)
- CSD 325 Speech Sound Disorders (3 credits)
- CSD 335 Neuroscience of Communication (3 credits)
- CSD 345 Intro to Clinical Processes in Speech-Language Pathology (3 credits)
- CSD 355 Eval & Treatment of Communication Disorders + Writing Lab (4 credits)
Other ASHA Required Courses
- Introduction Biology I (4 credits)
- Probability & Statistics (3 credits)
- Introduction to Psychology (3 credits)
- Physiological Chemistry (5 credits)
The above courses should be taken in the appropriate year and semester to allow for proper progression. For the accelerated BS program, the fourth and fifth years are completed in the Master of Speech-Language Pathology Program. Please see the Graduate Catalog for details. For all other classes refer to the Communications Sciences & Disorders Graduation Requirements form.
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Communications Sciences & Disorders
The traditional 4-year Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CS&D) will prepare the student to apply to graduate school to pursue a Master of Science in speech-language pathology.
Students in the BA program will follow a suggested plan of study as noted here, which includes all Connections Curriculum (general education) and major curriculum courses, graduate program pre-requisite requirements, and minor electives:
YEAR 1
- Composition and Rhetoric I (EN 103 )
- Composition and Rhetoric II (EN 104 )
- First-Year Experience (UNIV 101 )
- Philosophical Thinking (PL 109 )
- Introduction to Psychology (PS 109 )
- Introduction to Biology I (BI 151 )
- Physiological Chemistry (CH 107 )
- Introduction to Communication Sciences & Disorders (CSD 105 )
- Language Science (Linguistics) (CSD 115 )
- Language Development (CSD 125 )
YEAR 2
- Probability & Statistics (MA 111 )
- Expanded Literacies: Cultural Awareness
- Expanded Literacies: Historical Analysis
- Expanded Literacies: Literary Analysis (EN 110 , EN 112 , or EN 115 )
- Introduction to Theology (TH 109 )
- Lifelong Health & Wellness (UNIV 110 )
- Financial Literacy (FN 100 )
- Free Elective/Minor
- Introduction to Audiology (CSD 205 )
- Phonetics (CSD 215 )
- Anatomy & Physiology of the Speech Mechanism (CSD 225 )
YEAR 3
- Lens 1
- Lens 2
- Free Elective/Minor
- Free Elective/Minor
- Free Elective/Minor
- Free Elective/Minor
- Speech Science (CSD 305 )
- Intro to Communication Disorders (CSD 315 )
- Speech Sound Disorders (CSD 325 )
YEAR 4
- Lens 3
- Catholicism in Dialogue
- Free Elective/Minor
- Free Elective/Minor
- Free Elective/Minor
- Free Elective/Minor
- Neuroscience of Communication (CSD 335 )
- Intro to Clinical Processes in Speech-Language Pathology (CSD 345 )
- Evaluation & Treatment of Communication Disorders + Writing Practicum (CSD 355 )
Minor in Communication Sciences & Disorders
The Communication Sciences and Disorders Minor provides a solid foundation in the science underpinning normal communication and swallowing and an introduction to communication and swallowing disorders. The six courses are also considered pre-requisites for most graduate SLP programs. Students in the Health Communication, Neuroscience, and Psychology programs may find exceptional value in this minor.
Bachelor of Science in Communications Sciences & Disorders (3+2 Accelerated Program)
The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CS&D) is an accelerated 3+2 Program that will prepare the student to become a licensed and certified Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) after completing the post-graduate Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY).
Admission Requirements
High School Academics - There is no single preferred high school academic program, but a college preparatory course of study is highly recommended. Here’s an example:
- Four years of English
- Three or four years of college preparatory mathematics
- A minimum of two years of modern, foreign, or classical language
- At least two laboratory science courses
- Evidence of extracurricular activities during high school
SAT scores are highly recommended for students applying for the Healthcare Professions programs.
Interview - Qualified applicants will be invited to complete an interview with the CS&D program faculty.
Admission into the Communication Sciences & Disorders BS accelerated program is competitive. First, the applicant must be accepted by the University. Then, Admissions refers to the CS&D program qualified applicants, who must interview separately with the program. If accepted as a first-year student into the Communication Sciences & Disorders accelerated BS, the articulation agreement guarantees a seat in the SLP program without further application as long as all progression requirements have been met.
With the Communication Sciences and Disorders BS major, the student will transition into the Master of Science (MS) in Speech-Language Pathology program during the fourth year of study, upon meeting the academic requirements.
This fast-paced program requires a commitment to an intensive lock-step curriculum. Designed for high-achieving students, this “honors”-type program is ideal for students confident in their career choice who enjoy the challenge of rigorous scientific studies. Successful completion of this 5-year program will allow the student to sit for the PRAXIS licensing exam.
Core Functions
Participation in and successful completion of the BS in Communication Sciences & Disorders to the Master of Science (MS) in Speech-Language Pathology program require that any enrolled students possess the ability to acquire academic knowledge, perform essential physical functions, and demonstrate professional attitudes and behaviors involved in speech-language pathology practice.
The following core functions are from the Council of Academic Programs in Communication Sciences and Disorders: Guide for Future Practitioners in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology: Core Functions (https://www.capcsd.org/academic-and-clinical-resources/).
COMMUNICATION
Statements in this section acknowledge that audiologists and speech-language pathologists must communicate in a way that is understood by their clients/patients and others. It is recognized that linguistic, paralinguistic, stylistic, and pragmatic variations are part of every culture, and accent, dialects, idiolects, and communication styles can differ from general American English expectations. Communication may occur in different modalities depending on the joint needs of involved parties and may be supported through various accommodations as deemed reasonable and appropriate to client/patient needs. Some examples of these accommodations include augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices, written displays, voice amplification, attendant-supported communication, oral translators, assistive listening devices, sign interpreters, and other non-verbal communication modes.
- Employ oral, written, auditory, and non-verbal communication at a level sufficient to meet academic and clinical competencies.
- Adapt communication style to effectively interact with colleagues, clients, patients, caregivers, and invested parties of diverse backgrounds in various modes such as in person, over the phone, and in electronic format.
MOTOR
Statements in this section acknowledge that clinical practice by audiologists and speech-language pathologists involves a variety of tasks that require manipulation of items and environments. It is recognized that this may be accomplished through a variety of means, including, but not limited to, independent motor movement, assistive technology, attendant support, or other accommodations/modifications as deemed reasonable to offer and appropriate to client/patient needs.
- Engage in physical activities at a level required to accurately implement classroom and clinical responsibilities (e.g., manipulating testing and therapeutic equipment and technology, client/patient equipment, and practice management technology) while retaining the integrity of the process.
- Respond in a manner that ensures the safety of clients and others.
SENSORY
Statements in this section acknowledge that audiologists and speech-language pathologists use auditory, visual, tactile, and olfactory information to guide clinical practice. It is recognized that such information may be accessed through a variety of means, including direct sensory perception and/or adaptive strategies. Some examples of these strategies include visual translation displays, text readers, assistive listening devices, and perceptual descriptions by clinical assistants.
- Access sensory information to differentiate functional and disordered auditory, oral, written, and visual communication.
- Access sensory information to correctly differentiate anatomical structures and diagnostic imaging findings.
- Access sensory information to correctly differentiate and discriminate text, numbers, tables, and graphs associated with diagnostic instruments and tests.
INTELLECTUAL / COGNITIVE
Statements in this section acknowledge that audiologists and speech-language pathologists must engage in critical thinking, reasoning, and comprehension and retention of information required in clinical practice. It is recognized that such skills may be fostered through a variety of means, including assistive technology and /or accommodations/modifications as deemed reasonable and appropriate to client/patient needs.
- Retain, analyze, synthesize, evaluate, and apply auditory, written, and oral information at a level sufficient to meet curricular and clinical competencies.
- Employ informed critical thinking and ethical reasoning to formulate a differential diagnosis and create, implement, and adjust evaluation and treatment plans as appropriate for the client/patient’s needs.
- Engage in ongoing self-reflection and evaluation of one’s existing knowledge and skills.
- Critically examine and apply evidence-based judgment in keeping with best practices for client/patient care.
INTERPERSONAL
Statements in this section acknowledge that audiologists and speech-language pathologists must interact with a diverse community of individuals in a manner that is safe, ethical, and supportive. It is recognized that personal interaction styles may vary by individuals and cultures and that good clinical practice honors such diversity while meeting this obligation.
- Display compassion, respect, and concern for others during all academic and clinical interactions.
- Adhere to all aspects of relevant professional codes of ethics, privacy, and information management policies.
- Take personal responsibility for maintaining physical and mental health at a level that ensures safe, respectful, and successful participation in didactic and clinical activities.
CULTURAL RESPONSIVENESS
Statements in this section acknowledge that audiologists and speech-language pathologists have an obligation to practice in a manner responsive to individuals from different cultures, linguistic communities, social identities, beliefs, values, and worldviews. This includes people representing a variety of abilities, ages, cultures, dialects, disabilities, ethnicities, genders, gender identities or expressions, languages, national/regional origins, races, religions, sexes, sexual orientations, socioeconomic statuses, and lived experiences.
- Engage in ongoing learning about cultures and belief systems different from one’s own and the impacts of these on healthcare and educational disparities to foster effective provision of services.
- Demonstrate the application of culturally responsive evidence-based decisions to guide clinical practice.
Students in the BS program will follow a suggested plan of study as noted here, which includes all Connections Curriculum (general education) and major curriculum courses, graduate program pre-requisite requirements, and minor electives:
YEAR 1
- Composition and Rhetoric I (EN 103 )
- Composition and Rhetoric II (EN 104 )
- First-Year Experience (UNIV 101 )
- Philosophical Thinking (PL 109 )
- Introduction to Psychology (PS 109 )
- Physiological Chemistry (CH 107 )
- Introduction to Communication Sciences & Disorders (CSD 105 )
- Language Science (Linguistics) (CSD 115 )
- Language Development (CSD 125 )
YEAR 2
- Probability & Statistics (MA 111 )
- Expanded Literacies: Cultural Awareness
- Expanded Literacies: Historical Analysis
- Expanded Literacies: Literary Analysis (EN 110 , EN 112 , or EN 115 )
- Introduction to Theology (TH 109 )
- Lifelong Health & Wellness (UNIV 110 )
- Financial Literacy (FN 100 )
- Free Elective/Minor
- Introduction to Biology (BI 151 )
- Introduction to Audiology (CSD 205 )
- Phonetics (CSD 215 )
- Anatomy & Physiology of the Speech Mechanism (CSD 225 )
YEAR 3
- Lens 1
- Lens 2
- Lens 3
- Catholicism in Dialogue
- Speech Science (CSD 305 )
- Intro to Communication Disorders (CSD 315 )
- Speech Sound Disorders (CSD 325 )
- Neuroscience of Communication (CSD 335 )
- Intro to Clinical Processes in Speech-Language Pathology (CSD 345 )
- Evaluation & Treatment of Communication Disorders + Writing Practicum (CSD 355 )
Progression Policy for BS in Communication Sciences & Disorders
Accelerated 3+2 program students accepted as a freshman into the Communication Sciences and Disorders major are guaranteed a seat in the Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program without further application providing all the following requirements are met during the 3-year undergraduate phase of the program:
- Earn a GPA of 3.0 each semester.
- Earn no less than a “C” (C- is not acceptable) in any of the Communication Sciences and Disorders courses or the designated mathematics/science prerequisites. Retake of any course must adhere to the repeat course policy as stated in this catalog under Academic Regulations.
- Demonstrate understanding of the field of Speech-Language Pathology through completion of a minimum of 25 hours of observation at field practice settings. Submission of Verification of Observation forms for each experience must be received by the Program Director before the start of the fourth year.
- To enter the SLP graduate phase (year 4) the student must have an overall cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better and a required science cumulative GPA of 3.0
- The student will be required to complete background checks prior to entering the SLP program. A positive result may affect the student’s ability to matriculate into the program.
- The student will be required to maintain and document health insurance during the two years of the graduate SLP program.
Master of Speech-Language Pathology Program
The Speech-Language Pathology program is 24 months in duration, six consecutive semesters. It is designed to deliver the essential academic and clinical education necessary to prepare students for their professional roles as speech-language pathologists and to satisfy the eligibility requirements for certification and licensure.
Admission into the SLP Master’s program can also be obtained by completing a regular 4-year degree (BA) at DeSales (or other college or university) and then applying through the Communication Sciences & Disorders Centralized Application Service (CSDCAS). A seat in the program is not guaranteed but all DeSales graduates are offered a priority interview. Full details of the Master of Speech-Language Pathology Program can be found in the Graduate Catalog of the University.
CAA Accreditation
The Master of Science (M.S.) education program in speech-language pathology (residential) at DeSales University is a Candidate for Accreditation by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, 2200 Research Boulevard, #310, Rockville, MD 20850, +1 (800) 498-2071 or +1 (301) 296-5700. Candidacy is a “preaccreditation” status with the CAA, awarded to developing or emerging programs for a maximum period of 5 years. The program was awarded a candidacy accreditation status on February 19, 2022, by the CAA. This candidacy accreditation cycle is effective February 1, 2022 through January 1, 2027.
