The Bachelor of Science program in speech and hearing science engages students in study of the normal aspects of the communication process, with emphasis on:
- the human communication system, including the anatomy and physiology of the hearing and speech mechanisms
- normal development of speech and language production and perception
- speech, language and hearing science
The curriculum enables students to develop knowledge and skills to evaluate and determine speech and language deficits and disorders. Upper-division coursework introduces clinical methods and disorders of speech, language and hearing.
Positions in speech-language pathology and audiology are in high demand, rated as careers with bright outlooks by the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Information Network. Potential employment opportunities for program graduates include these positions:audiology assistanthearing aid or cochlear implant company representativeresearch assistant or associate in a behavioral disciplinespeech-language pathology assistantsupport staff member in a rehabilitation or health facilityMany graduates of speech and hearing sciences gain entrance to graduate-level programs in speech-language pathology or audiology. In both fields, a graduate degree is required for employment.The undergraduate degree in speech and hearing science is also excellent preparation for those who wish to enter professional or graduate programs in fields such as:counselingeducationmedicinerehabilitationsocial workspecial educationteaching for the deafGraduates work with a variety of populations, including people on the autism spectrum, bilingual language learners, those with delayed or disordered speech and language or those experiencing hearing impairment or stuttering, patients recovering from strokes, or patients with degenerative or neurological disease. Graduates work with patients and clients across the life span, from infants to geriatrics, in a variety of settings.Example job titles and salaries listed below are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience and geographical location may affect pay scales. Some jobs also may require advanced degrees, certifications or state-specific licensure.
For more information, please visit our Speech and Hearing Science website.
