Application Process for the CSDI Bachelor's
Stage I: Pre-Communication Sciences and Disorders (PCSDI)
All students declaring a major in communication sciences and disorders are accepted as tentative candidates to the undergraduate program and assigned the pre-communication code — PCSDI.
The PCSDI program includes:
- Complete all required program prerequisite courses
- Have a minimum cumulative grade-point average of 3.0 on all college-level coursework at the time of application
- Complete the following courses with a C or better: ENGL 10103, ENGL 10203, MATH 11003 or equivalent, and SPCH 10003
- Obtain passing scores on the Core Academic Skills for Educator: Math, Reading, and Writing sections of the Praxis Core Exam
Students who do not meet admission criteria for the B.S. degree program in Communication Sciences and Disorders in a given year may reapply in subsequent years, provided they meet all eligibility requirements at the time of their reapplication.
Stage II: Admission to the Communication Sciences and Disorders Program
Admission to the CSDI Program major is competitive and occurs after completion of all PCSDI requirements identified in Stage I. Applications will open on Jan. 1 and must be submitted by Jan 30. Submit your application during your sophomore year, prior to the fall semester of your junior year.
Submit an Application Packet with the following information:
- Online application form, which opens Jan. 1
- Letter of Intent — One-page letter relating why you wish to enter the CSDI major — upload on application form
- Transcripts for all college-level coursework — upload on application form
- Submission of passing scores on the Core Academic Skills for Educators: Math, Reading, and Writing sections of the Praxis I Exam — You may submit a copy of the official test results found in your ETS Praxis Account — upload on application form
Praxis I Details
|
Core Academic Skills for Educators |
Minimum Passing Score |
Official Study Companion (PDFs) |
|
156 |
||
|
162 |
||
|
150 |
||
|
Test combining the 3 subjects above: #5752 |
Students may sign up to take the three subject tests separately or to take the combined test. Note that the combined test is less expensive than taking the test sections separately.
Possible last step: Satisfactory completion of an admission interview if requested by faculty committee.
No late applications or late transcripts will be accepted. Make sure transcripts from other colleges are received and processed so they appear on your U of A transcript by Jan. 15. If all your completed classes from all colleges are not listed on your transcript, your application will appear incomplete and be rejected.
For additional support in preparing for the Praxis I Exam and understanding application requirements, see the following links.
Helpful Resources
For additional support in preparing for the Praxis Core Exam and understanding application requirements, consider these resources:
- ETS Praxis Core Exam Information
- Official Study Guides and Practice Tests
- U of A Academic Support Center
Contact Information
If you have questions about the application process or eligibility requirements, please reach out to the Communication Sciences and Disorders Program:
csdi@uark.edu
479-575-4893
Epley Center for Health Professions
606 N. Razorback Road
Fayetteville, AR 72701
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I don't meet the GPA requirement?
You can consider retaking courses to improve your GPA. You may reapply in subsequent years if you meet the GPA requirement at that time.
Can I apply if I haven’t taken the Praxis Core Exam yet?
No. Applicants must submit passing scores from the Praxis Core Exam as part of their application. Ensure you schedule your exam in time to meet the application deadline.
What happens if I miss the application deadline?
Late applications or late transcripts will not be accepted. It is recommended to submit all materials well in advance of the Jan. 31 deadline.
Is an interview required for all applicants?
Not necessarily. The faculty committee may request an interview if additional information is needed to evaluate your application.
How can I check if my transcripts are processed?
You can verify transcript receipt through your University of Arkansas student portal. Ensure that all transcripts from previous institutions are submitted by Jan.15.