Bachelor of Science
What Opportunities Does a Communication Sciences B.S. Open for Me?
The Program in Communication Sciences and Disorders offers an undergraduate major leading to the Bachelor of Science degree. This degree prepares students for graduate study in speech-language pathology as well as for advanced study in a wide range of education and health-related professions, including doctoral programs in audiology and occupational therapy and graduate programs in physical therapy, physician assistant studies, public health, rehabilitation counseling, special education and related disciplines.
How Do the Career Options Vary?
Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) assess, diagnose and treat communication and swallowing disorders across the lifespan. They work with diverse populations, from young children with speech and language delays to adults recovering from stroke, traumatic brain injury or other neurological conditions. Professional practice as an SLP requires a master's degree, clinical fellowship and state licensure.
Audiologists specialize in the prevention, identification, assessment and treatment of hearing, balance and other auditory disorders. They provide services such as hearing evaluations, hearing aid fitting and management, vestibular assessment, and auditory rehabilitation. Professional practice requires a clinical doctorate in audiology (Au.D.) and state licensure. Additional career opportunities are available as audiology assistants or technicians with specialized training and, where applicable, state credentials.
Occupational therapists (OTs) help individuals develop, recover or maintain the skills needed for daily living, learning and working. They serve people with injuries, illnesses, disabilities or developmental conditions and focus on promoting independence and participation in meaningful activities. Professional practice requires a doctoral degree in occupational therapy (OTD) or other accredited entry-level OT preparation, depending on program requirements and licensure standards.
Other Health and Human Services Professions. A bachelor's degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders also provides excellent preparation for graduate study in a variety of related fields. Alumni have pursued careers in physical therapy, physician assistant studies, public health, rehabilitation counseling, special education, child development, healthcare administration and other allied health professions. The strong foundation in human development, anatomy and physiology, neuroscience, communication, and evidence-based practice makes CSDI a versatile degree for students interested in helping professions.
Students interested in the Communication Sciences and Disorders major initially declare Pre-Communication Disorders and must be admitted to the CSDI program to continue in the professional curriculum.
Further Information
- State Core Requirements for all baccalaureate degree candidates.
- Learn About the CSD Professions: Speech-Language Pathology
- Learn About the CSD Professions: Audiology
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
Also, our Post-Baccalaureate Plan is designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field but need to complete leveling coursework before applying to graduate programs in Communication Sciences and Disorders.
The Program in Communication Sciences and Disorders does not discriminate in the delivery of academic services or the conduct of research and scholarly activities.