Make a difference in the lives of others – from children to older adults – with speech and language disorders with a degree in communicative disorders.
Why Study Communicative Disorders?
A bachelor’s degree in communicative disorders provides a solid foundation in speech science, audiology and language development and is the standard first step if you're interested in earning a master’s or doctoral degree in preparation for a career in speech-language pathology or audiology.
A communicative disorders bachelor’s degree also serves as a great stand-alone degree that can prepare you for a number of fulfilling careers that don’t require an advanced degree and certification.
It’s a solid course of study for both aspiring speech-language pathologists and others looking for a comprehensive background in the communication sciences, which includes the study of both the normal development of speech, language and hearing and how impairments can impede an individual’s development and well-being.
Why Study Communicative Disorders at CSUN?
Advanced Preparation
We'll prepare you for your graduate degree or a career right after graduation. You'll gain a solid foundation in statistics and the social/behavioral, physical and biological sciences, as well as topics related to:
- Normal language development
- Language disorders
- Linguistics
- Anatomy of hearing and speech mechanisms
Specialization
The bachelor of arts degree is available with emphases in either speech-language pathology or audiology. Our curriculum features both classroom instruction and experiential learning, including participation in the clinical programs of CSUN’s Language, Speech and Hearing Center.
Personalized Advising
We'll support you through your degree program with caring advisors who will open doors to mentorship opportunities as you explore your academic life. Service learning, internships and community involvement will help you graduate with real-world experience to take with you into your profession.
What You'll Learn
We offer an emphasis in either speech-language pathology or audiology. You'll study core courses such as:
- General Biology
- Human Anatomy
- Phonetics
- Hearing Science
- Language Disorders
Speech-Language Pathology Emphasis
You'll take specialized courses such as:
- Fluency and Disorders of Fluency
- Early Speech-Language Intervention
- Child Growth and Development
- Behavioral Psychology and Therapy
Audiology Emphasis
You'll take specialized courses including:
- Observation and Professional Writing in Communication Disorders
- Clinical Practicum in Audiology
- Health Aspects of Drug Use
- Organization and Delivery of Health Services
Careers & Outcomes
Some of our graduates choose to pursue graduate studies at the master or doctorate levels, while others head straight into the working world. Below are sample job titles and some of the places our graduates work.
Job Titles
- Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant
- Hearing Aid Dispenser
- Hearing Technician
- Personal Care Assistant
- Rehabilitation Aide
- Behavioral Therapist
- ESL Teacher
- Child Life Specialist
- School Counselor
- Substitute Teacher
Language, Speech and Hearing Center
The LSHC offers comprehensive diagnosis and therapeutic services to children and adults with communication disorders. Services are provided by upper-division and graduate students in training-under the supervision of licensed and certified professionals.