The Bachelor of Arts in Communication Science (CS) program is housed within the Department of Communication Science and Disorders (CSD). Communication Science is an upper-division program. This means students are required to have 60 college credits before beginning the program in the fall term. During your first- and sophomore years of college, you will complete the program prerequisite courses along with introductory courses and electives you may need for a second major, minor or intended graduate studies. You will apply to the program spring term of your sophomore year, or after completing roughly 45 college credits. Students may be in the process of completing all required credits and admission requirements when applying to SHRS.
High school and transfer students interested in an SHRS undergraduate major will apply to the University through the Office of Admissions. Most students begin their studies in the freshman-entry Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences. Remember to select a Guaranteed Admission Program on your application and reach out to the SHRS Enrollment Team to discuss your path ahead!
| Program Summary | |
|---|---|
| 60 credits required to begin program (see prerequisites); 120 total credits required to graduate | Program starts fall term only |
| 2 years (4 terms) completed at junior and senior year level | Average class size: 50 - 80 |
After acceptance to the Communication Science program, the last two years emphasize specialized coursework in CSD. With appropriate scheduling, students can obtain a minor and/or certificate in most any area plus study abroad if desired.
A professional career in speech-language pathology or audiology requires further graduate study in an accredited program and completion of a clinical fellowship year. Speech-language pathology and audiology are diverse fields with many opportunities to work with populations ranging from infants to the elderly in a variety of settings including schools, hospitals, universities, research institutes, industry and private practice.
The undergraduate major in Communication Science is also appropriate for graduate work in the neurosciences, speech and hearing sciences, health related professions (including dentistry, medicine and physician assistant studies) as well as graduate work in a range of education specializations, e.g. special education, education of the deaf and hard of hearing and early intervention.