Communication Science and Disorders

To understand how children acquire language. To work with children with speech or language difficulties. To understand how people speak, how the inner ear affects balance, and what language means in our lives. These are all part of Nazareth College's pre-professional program in Communication Science and Disorders. A strong foundation in communication processes and sciences, and grounding in the disorders that can disrupt communication help students to understand speech, language, hearing, and communication. The liberal arts are integrated to encourage broad cultural perspectives, critical thinking, problem-solving, and ethical values.

The undergraduate program provides students with the theoretical background for graduate study in Speech-Language Pathology or Audiology. Students study normal aspects of human communication and explore the various disorders that affect communication across the lifespan. An important component of this program is our Speech and Language Clinic which has been in operation for more than 50 years. Through this unique working environment, students enjoy a closely-supervised, hands-on clinical experience that is usually seen at the graduate level. Students who successfully complete two semesters in the Speech and Hearing Clinic and a student teaching experience may qualify for initial certification for work in NYS public schools. Graduates of our undergraduate program have a strong rate of acceptance into graduate programs.

Program Highlights

• Strong academic and clinical preparation for graduate school and employment.
• Opportunities for hands-on experience at Nazareth's working Speech and Hearing Clinic.
• Opportunity for initial certification as a Teacher of Students with Speech and Language Disabilities.
• Opportunity to participate in community service events such as hearing screenings at a Head Start program, language and literacy development programs in local schools, and participate in fundraising events that benefit children with communication needs in the community.
• Be part of an active student association that presents speakers on campus, participates in the state professional association convention, and builds camaraderie among students in the program.