Graduate Degree: Mission Statement

The ability to communicate effectively using language systems distinguishes human beings from other life forms. Disabilities which interfere with communication skills prohibit people from realizing their full potential. Study in the field of communication sciences and disorders prepares one to appreciate the impact of such impairments and to assist individuals in overcoming them. Students participate in curricula which covers development of communication processes, detailed consideration of disorders which arise in these processes, and their assessment and treatment. Students participate in coursework and clinical experiences in the following areas: adult and child language disorders, traumatic brain injury, voice disorders, hearing problems, swallowing dysfunction, fluency disorders, and motor speech disorders. In addition, there is a strong emphasis on professional issues, ethics and research.