Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders

College of Health Sciences

201 Carter Drive
610-436-3401
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Sojung Kim, Chairperson

The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders offers a program leading to a B.A. in Communication Sciences and Disorders. It is a pre-professional program that provides students with basic knowledge of human communication and communication disorders in preparation for graduate study in audiology, speech-language pathology, speech and hearing science, or related health science or communication fields.

Students will be provided with the opportunity to complete the undergraduate preparation that is applicable to the requirements for the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).

The department operates a Speech and Hearing Clinic that serves as a teaching and training facility for the academic program. The clinic provides consultation, evaluation, and intervention services for children and adults with speech, language, and hearing disorders. These services are available to individuals from the University as well as from the surrounding communities.

All undergraduate students are held to the academic policies and procedures outlined in the undergraduate catalog.  Students are encouraged to review departmental handbooks for program tips, suggested course sequences, and explanations of procedures. When applicable, additional policies for specific department programs may be listed below.

Academic Policies

  • Restrictive Major Requirement
    • To remain in the major or to transfer into the major, students must complete the following prerequisite courses with a cumulative GPA of at least a 3.0 and a minimum grade of C or better in each course: ENG 230/LIN 230; any MAT, 103 or above; CSD 101, CSD 106, CSD 203, CSD 207; any 100-level WRT, and any 200-level WRT. Students may not use more than a total of three repeats across the CSD courses to satisfy the restrictive major requirement (CSD 101, CSD 106, CSD 203, and CSD 207).
  • Letter Grade Requirement
    • Grades of C–, D, or F earned in major (CSD) courses must be raised to C or better. A major course in which a student earns a grade of C-, D, or F must be repeated the next time the course is offered (provided space availability exists). If a student earns less than a C in a major course that is a prerequisite for a more advanced course, the student will not be permitted to enroll in the advanced one until the prerequisite course is repeated with a grade of C or better.
  • GPA Requirement
    • A minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA and 2.5 GPA in the major courses are required for all communication sciences and disorders majors to complete the degree program.

Accelerated Program Policy

Refer to the Accelerated Programs page for more information.

Professors

Elizabeth U. Grillo (2006)

B.M., Indiana University; M.S., Columbia University's Teachers College; Ph.D., University of Pittsburgh

Mareile A. Koenig (1990)

Graduate Coordinator, Communication Sciences and Disorders

B.S., M.S., Southern Illinois University; Ph.D., University of Illinois

Jennifer W. Means (2004)

B.S., M.A., West Chester University; SLP.D., Nova Southeastern University

Associate Professors

Sojung Kim (2011)

Chairperson, Communication Sciences and Disorders

B.A., Sung Kyun Kwan University (South Korea); M.A., Ohio University; Ph.D., Arizona State University

Patricia Swasey Washington (2009)

B.A., Rutgers University Douglass College; M.A., William Paterson University; Ph.D., Temple University

Assistant Professors

Timothy Huang (2020)

B.A., National Taiwan Normal University; M.S., St. Cloud State University; Ph.D., University of Minnesota

Reva M. Zimmerman (2021)

B.A., B.S., Ph.D., University of Washington; M.S., University of British Columbia

CSD

CSD 101. Introduction to Communicative Disorders. 3 Credits.

An introductory survey of normal processes and disorders of speech, language, and hearing. Suitable for nonmajors.
Distance education offering may be available.

CSD 106. Anatomy of Speech and Hearing Mechanisms. 3 Credits.

A study of the anatomy and physiology of structures and systems associated with the speech and hearing mechanisms.
Pre / Co requisites: CSD 106 requires prerequisite of CSD 101.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

CSD 110. American Sign Language I. 3 Credits.

This is the first in a sequence of 4 American Sign Language courses. Students in this course will develop a fundamental vocabulary and understanding of American Sign Language. You will recognize, comprehend, apply and demonstrate culturally appropriate linguistic behaviors (vocabulary selection, grammar usage, turn-taking skills, feedback signals, eye-gaze, etc.) in order to communicate with other students and signers. In addition, information will be provided about deaf culture, general impact, barriers and opportunities related to hearing loss and Deaf Gain.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.
Cross listed courses CSD 110, ASL 101.

CSD 111. American Sign Language II. 3 Credits.

This is the second of 4 courses in the ASL foreign language option. In this course students will increase communication skills; develop conversational skills in ASL. The students in this course will also continue to expand their knowledge of Deaf culture by being provided with a better understanding of cultural values and behavioral roles of the Deaf community on the U.S. This course includes receptive and expressive activities, sign vocabulary, grammatical structure, receptive and expressive finger spelling, and facial expressions and body language.
Pre / Co requisites: CSD 111 requires prerequisite of CSD 110.
Typically offered in Spring.
Cross listed courses CSD 111, ASL 102.

CSD 163. Seminar I in Communicative Disorders. 0.5 Credits.

The seminar is designed to help integrate experiential and theoretical information. The seminar will focus on career/professional awareness, orientation to the department, and individual studies.
Consent: Permission of the Department required to add.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall.

CSD 166. Seminar II in Communicative Disorders. 0.5 Credits.

The seminar is designed to help integrate experiential and theoretical information. The seminar will focus on personal adjustment, assertiveness, and active listening.
Pre / Co requisites: CSD 166 requires a prerequisite of majors only.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Spring.

CSD 199. Transfer Credits. 1-12 Credits.

Transfer Credits.
Repeatable for Credit.

CSD 203. Speech and Hearing Science. 3 Credits.

This course presents students with the fundamental knowledge of acoustics related to speech production and speech perception. It also provides an opportunity for students to engage in laboratory experiences related to acoustic and psychoacoustic measurement.
Pre / Co requisites: CSD 203 prerequisite requires CSD 101 with a "C" or better.
Distance education offering may be available.

CSD 204. Speech and Language Development. 3 Credits.

Examination of normal communication development: biological, cognitive, social, and ecological bases of language. Developmental milestones from prelinguistic communication to oral language and literacy. Normal variations in development associated with cultural diversity and bilingualism.
Pre / Co requisites: CSD 204 requires prerequisites of CSD 101 with a grade of "C" or better, and ENG 230 or LIN 230.
Gen Ed Attribute: Writing Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

CSD 207. Introduction to Phonetics. 3 Credits.

Introduction to the International Phonetic Alphabet and its use in transcribing normal and disordered speech. Emphasis is placed on broad and narrow transcription skills.
Pre / Co requisites: CSD 207 requires a prerequisite of a C or better in CSD 101.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

CSD 208. Neurology of Speech & Hearing. 3 Credits.

A study of neuroanatomy and neurophysiology of the speech and hearing mechanism.
Pre / Co requisites: CSD 208 requires prerequisites of CSD 101 and CSD 106.
Distance education offering may be available.

CSD 210. Intermediate American Sign Language I. 3 Credits.

This course is the third in a sequence of 4 ASL courses. In this class you will build on what was learned in ASL 101/CSD 110 and ASL 102/CSD 111, continuing to emphasize the development of proper ASL grammar, syntax and vocabulary with emphasis on conversation and narration/storytelling. Vocabulary-building and mastery of grammar will be through rigorous receptive and expressive language activities. Topics discussed in ASL include the location and description of items in rooms and buildings, complaints, making suggestions, and making requests. Exposure to and knowledge of deaf culture is an integral part of the course.
Pre / Co requisites: CSD 210 requires a prerequisite of CSD 111 or ASL 102.
Typically offered in Fall.
Cross listed courses ASL 201, CSD 210.

CSD 211. Intermediate American Sign Language II. 3 Credits.

This is the final of a 4 course sequence in ASL. This course provides students with opportunities to expand their sign production and comprehension skills in ASL. Students continue to expand their awareness of ASL conventions, grammar and vocabulary, including an extensive review of topical signs and idioms. Students develop a greater competency in their receptive understanding of connected ASL discourse and in their expression of extended ideas, concepts, and stories in ASL. Their expressive competency in discussion of ideas includes an expression of their understanding of deaf culture. Students continue the growth of their technical awareness of Deaf culture and ASL linguistics.
Pre / Co requisites: CSD 211 requires a prerequisite of CSD 210 or ASL 201.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.
Cross listed courses CSD 211, ASL 202.

CSD 240. Development and Disorders of Language. 3 Credits.

An examination of normal language development and its psycholinguistic, neurological, and social dimensions. Special education considerations for children with language disorders. CSD 101 is recommended. Suitable for non majors.

CSD 266. Seminar III In Communicative Disorders. 0.5 Credits.

The seminar is designed to help integrate experiential and theoretical information. The seminar will focus on implications of disabilities and on cultural diversity.
Pre / Co requisites: CSD 266 requires a prerequisite of majors only.
Consent: Permission of the Department required to add.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Spring.

CSD 270. Introduction to Augmentative and Alternative Communication. 3 Credits.

The course is designed to introduce undergraduate students to a variety of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) strategies (e.g., high-technology devices such as speech-generating computers and software programs and low-technology systems such as picture exchange communication) for people with communication disorders. Students will explore the Total Communication approach - an approach to Deaf education that includes a number of modes of communication such as signed, oral, auditory, written and visual aids - for interacting with individuals who have complex communication needs.
Gen Ed Attribute: Diversity Requirement, Speaking Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

CSD 329. Speech & Voice Disorders. 3 Credits.

The symptomology, etiology, assessment, and treatment of communication disorders associated with articulation, phonology, fluency, vocal pathologies, and non-vocal pathologies voice needs.
Pre / Co requisites: CSD 329 requires prerequisites of CSD 101, CSD 106, CSD 203, CSD 204, and CSD 207.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter.

CSD 333. Language Disorders. 3 Credits.

Clinical management issues associated with developmental and acquired language disorders in children and adults. Linguistic patterns observed in the performance of individuals with various etiological conditions (e.g., intellectual developmental disorders, autism, hearing loss, neurological impairment, learning disability). Factors indicating risk for and maintenance of language disorders. Protocols for evaluation and treatment indicated by behavioral theories, developmental theories, processing models, and sensitivity to normal variations among linguistically and culturally diverse populations.
Pre / Co requisites: CSD 333 requires a prerequisite of CSD 204.
Gen Ed Attribute: Writing Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

CSD 337. Professional Issues in Communication Sciences and Disorders. 3 Credits.

This course provides a basic orientation to the field of speech-language pathology; information on the educational requirements for practicing as a speech-language pathologist and audiologist; the integration of theoretical and practical information focused on licensure and certification, professional roles and responsibilities, principles and applications of counseling, implications of disabilities, impact of cultural and linguistic diversity, professional resources, and the legal, ethical, and political responsibilities of the professional; employment opportunities and graduate education; and the 25 required observation hours according to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
Pre / Co requisites: CSD 337 requires students to be majors only.
Consent: Permission of the Department required to add.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

CSD 346. Hearing Disorders. 3 Credits.

This is a lecture-based course that serves as an introduction to audiology and its relationship to other medical and educational fields concerned with hearing impairments. Developmental, medical, social, physical, and psychological properties of hearing and sound are explored. Evaluative techniques are introduced with opportunity for limited practical experience.
Pre / Co requisites: CSD 346 requires prerequisites of CSD 101, CSD 106, and CSD 203. (Majors only)
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

CSD 348. Hearing Disorders Laboratory. 1 Credit.

Laboratory experience to become familiar with most common hearing testing and remediation equipment.

CSD 350. Clinical Principles in Communicative Disorders. 3 Credits.

This course provides students with information about the materials and methods used to assess and treat the range of speech, language, and communication disorders.
Pre / Co requisites: CSD 350 requires prerequisites of CSD 329 and CSD 333.
Gen Ed Attribute: Writing Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter.

CSD 363. Seminar IV in Communicative Disorders. 0.5 Credits.

The seminar is designed to help integrate experiential and theoretical information, focusing on principles and applications of counseling.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall.

CSD 366. Seminar V in Communicative Disorders. 0.5 Credits.

The seminar is designed to help integrate experiential and theoretical information, focusing on professional resources and the legal, ethical, and political responsibilities of the professional.
Pre / Co requisites: CSD 366 requires a prerequisite of majors only.
Consent: Permission of the Department required to add.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Spring.

CSD 401. Introduction to Clinical Research Methods. 3 Credits.

The primary objective of this course is to introduce students to clinical research topics in communication sciences and disorders and other related disciplines. Students will define basic concepts of clinical research, investigate clinical research literature, and identify a clinical research topic of interest. Ethical considerations for conducting research will be explored with a focus on the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association's Code of Ethics. Students' oral communication skills will be developed throughout the semester.
Pre / Co requisites: CSD 401 requires a prerequisite of 60 completed credits in the student's respective major.
Gen Ed Attribute: Ethics Requirement, Speaking Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall & Summer.

CSD 410. Independent Study. 1-3 Credits.

Research, creative projects, reports, and readings in speech pathology and audiology. Application must be made to advisers by students one semester in advance of registration.
Consent: Permission of the Department required to add.
Repeatable for Credit.

CSD 463. Seminar VI in Communicative Disorders. 0.5 Credits.

The seminar is designed to help integrate experiential and theoretical information, focusing on employment opportunities and graduate education.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall.

CSD 498. Workshop In Communicative Disorders. 3 Credits.

Contact department for more information about this course.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter.
Repeatable for Credit.

SLP

SLP 456. Interprofessional Simulation. 3 Credits.

The primary objective of this course is to examine the interrelationship of various healthcare professions through simulation activities. In this course, students will examine the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to establish effective teamwork across healthcare disciplines. Teamwork has been found to be one of the key initiatives within patient safety that can transform the culture of healthcare delivery. Patient safety requires effective communication and other teamwork skills to deliver quality healthcare and to prevent medical errors, patient injury, and harm. To address this, health sciences students will explore a team-based, interdisciplinary, integrative approach to healthcare delivery through online self-study, simulation, debriefing, and self-reflection. Speaking emphasis skills will be assessed during performance of case presentations in simulations and analytical oral interpretations of the performance in debriefing. Students will examine strategies that enhance collaboration, communication, and patient safety, leading to integration of various perspectives into a unified framework of healthcare delivery.
Pre / Co requisites: SLP 456 requires completion of 60 credits in the Communication Sciences and Disorders, Nursing, or Nutrition major.
Gen Ed Attribute: Interdisciplinary Requirement, Speaking Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Summer.
Cross listed courses NSG 456, NTD 456, SLP 456.