Communication Sciences and Disorders
If you’d like to improve the lives of individuals with communication and swallowing disorders, consider this pre-professional undergraduate program from PennWest. You’ll receive a comprehensive, hands-on education that will prepare you for a wide-range of entry-level jobs, as well as graduate studies in speech-language pathology, audiology or other professional training programs.
As a Communication Sciences and Disorders major, you’ll learn from highly qualified faculty with extensive clinical experience. They will not only provide you with a solid academic foundation but guide you as you observe real clients who are diagnosed with communication and swallowing disorders and are treated in the University’s Speech and Hearing Clinic.
Upon graduation, you will have the knowledge and skills you need to go on to graduate school or to enter the workforce in a high-demand field in a variety of healthcare and educational work settings.
We offer Early Assurance and Early Admission programs to highly motivated, academically talented incoming and current undergraduate students. Students who qualify for this track and remain in good academic standing are guaranteed an uninterrupted continuation into their graduate studies by securing a seat in the master's program.
In addition, we offer an Accelerated Bachelor's-to-Master's Degree Program, which allows students to complete their undergraduate studies at an accelerated pace and apply graduate credits towards their undergraduate degree.
This program is for you if...
- You're passionate about understanding and addressing speech, language, and hearing disorders, aiming for a career that transforms lives through improved communication.
- You value a pre-professional program designed to seamlessly prepare you for advanced graduate studies, leading to full professional certification and licensure in speech-language pathology.
- You're interested in a curriculum that emphasizes a deep understanding of speech and language development, audiology, and the physiological and psychological aspects of communication disorders.
- You appreciate hands-on learning and the opportunity for clinical observation and experience, offering a real-world perspective on your future role as a speech-language pathologist.
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120 Credits for BS
What You'll Study
In the Communication Sciences and Disorders program at PennWest, you'll explore a comprehensive curriculum focusing on the science behind speech, language, and hearing. You'll delve into speech and language development, audiology, and the assessment and treatment of various communication disorders. The program is designed to equip you with foundational knowledge and clinical observation skills, preparing you for advanced studies in speech-language pathology. This educational journey is aimed at developing compassionate professionals ready to make a significant impact in the field.
| Degrees, Certificates, Minors | Offered at... | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Clarion | Edinboro | Global Online | |
| Communication Sciences & Disorders (Speech-Language Pathology), BS | Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person | Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person | Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person | Program Not Offered At This Location |
| Communication Sciences and Disorders, Minor | Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person | Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person | Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person | Program Not Offered At This Location |
Meet Our Faculty
Our faculty are not just instructors; they are mentors, researchers, and industry professionals committed to providing an education grounded in real-world experiences and academic excellence. From engaging classroom discussions to hands-on experiential learning, our educators are here to support and inspire you every step of the way.
How You'll Learn
The Communication Sciences and Disorders (Speech-Language Pathology) program is offered on multiple campuses in an in-person format. An in-person degree emphasizes traditional in-person courses at one or more of our locations.
What You'll Become
Graduates of PennWest’s B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders report being well-prepared for graduate and pre-professional programs, as well as for employment in a variety of fields.
Career Paths
- Clinical Practice: Becoming a licensed speech-language pathologist or audiologist, providing therapy and rehabilitation for speech, language, and hearing disorders.
- Educational Services: Working within schools to support children with communication challenges, ensuring their academic and social success.
- Research: Contributing to the field through research on speech, language, and hearing sciences, potentially developing new treatments or technologies.
- Corporate and Nonprofit Roles: Applying communication expertise in corporate training, assistive technology companies, or nonprofit organizations focused on communication health.
Yesenia Santiago-Jimenez
Yesenia Santiago-Jimenez, a graduate student studying communication disorders at PennWest University, has been selected as a student representative on the executive board of the Pennsylvania Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
How We'll Help You Succeed
At Pennsylvania Western University, we prioritize your success and well-being from the moment you join our community. Our comprehensive student support system is designed to meet you where you are, offering personalized guidance, academic assistance, and emotional support to ensure you can fully focus on your studies and personal growth. Whether you're a first-generation college student, returning for further education, or navigating career changes, our dedicated faculty and staff provide the encouragement and resources you need to overcome challenges and thrive. With a wide range of services from tutoring and career counseling to mental health resources, PennWest stands by your side, empowering you to achieve your academic goals and prepare for a successful future. Join us at PennWest, where you're not just a student; you're part of a supportive family committed to helping you find your place in the world.
Hands-on Experience
Observe at one of our on-campus Speech and Hearing Clinics to learn about communication and swallowing disorders in children and adults
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Affordable Programs
Tuition & FeesDiscover quality education that fits your budget with our affordable programs at PennWest.
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Success Coaching
Success at PennWestAchieve your academic goals with personalized guidance from our dedicated student success coaches.
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Post-Graduation Support
Life After PennWestWe're here for you even after graduation, providing support and resources to help you succeed in your career.