The M.A. in Communication Sciences and Disorders is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech- Language Pathology (CAA). Recipients of this degree are qualified to apply for licensure by the State of California and the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) in Speech-Language Pathology by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association. The Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential is also offered, which allows the holder to provide service in the public schools.

Mission

The mission of the Communication Sciences and Disorders (CMSD) program is to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to enter the professions of speech-language pathology and audiology through an enriched, flexible, and innovative learning environment, both academically and clinically, that fosters quality of thought and creative, research-based problem-solving, life-long learning and consummate professionalism. To meet these ends, the program aims to employ expert, student-oriented faculty and staff. We are dedicated to program growth and to the procurement of the necessary supportive resources. We continue to enhance associations with the university and local communities to provide greater interdisciplinary and collaborative research and clinical opportunities for our students, clients, and faculty. The CMSD program is committed to being a model clinical facility, recognized throughout the California North state for both the advancement of student learning and for high quality, state-of-the-art services, outreach, and resources to the community.

Goals & Objectives

• Students will be qualified to work in public schools.
• Students will be prepared for employment in a medical facility.
• Students will be prepared for admission into doctoral programs.
• Students will be prepared to assume leadership positions in professional organizations.
• Speech-language pathologists in Northern California will be able to access professional development/continuing education opportunities through programs sponsored by the CMSD program.

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate knowledge of basic human communication and swallowing processes, including their biological, neurological, acoustic, psychological, developmental, and linguistic and cultural bases.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of the nature of speech, language, hearing, and communication disorders and differences and swallowing disorders, including their etiologies, characteristics, anatomical/physiological, acoustic, psychological, developmental, and linguistic and cultural correlates.
3. Demonstrate knowledge of the principles and methods of prevention, assessment, and intervention for people with communication and swallowing disorders, including consideration of anatomical/physiological, acoustic, psychological, developmental, and linguistic and cultural correlates.
4. Successful completion of supervised clinical experiences, demonstrating knowledge and skill competencies.