Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders
Hours: 120 On-Campus Online
About
Through a blend of academic coursework and clinical experience, students explore the intricacies of communication sciences and disorders. It prepares them for future endeavors in the rewarding healthcare and education sector.
Furthermore, our program sets the stage for further education with a smooth transition into speech-language pathology or audiology graduate programs. The curriculum provides a strong foundation in the science behind working with individuals who have communication disorders.
Why pursue a Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders at Fort Hays State University?
Fort Hays State University offers a variety of distinctive opportunities designed to prepare students for real-world success. These include senior clinical experiences that equip students to meet the practical challenges of their profession. Financial assistance is also available for attending state and national conferences, providing valuable opportunities for networking and staying current with developments in the field.
FHSU is the only institution in Kansas offering a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant certificate option available both on campus and fully online, demonstrating the commitment to accessible, hands-on education. This dedication to flexible learning also extends to our fully online Bachelor of Science program, which balances convenience with academic quality.
Who is this program for?
The B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders program offers a versatile curriculum that supports a wide variety of academic and career goals. It appeals to individuals with diverse interests and aspirations, including:
- Undergraduate students aiming to pursue a master's degree in a healthcare or education-related field
- Aspiring speech-language pathologists or audiologists
- Individuals interested in working in a helping profession
Learning Outcomes
Our B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders program provides students with a comprehensive foundation. Below are some essential skills and learning outcomes that students can expect to gain throughout their academic journey in this program:
Identifying the Anatomy and Physiology of Speech and Hearing Mechanisms
Students develop a thorough understanding of the complex anatomy and physiology of the speech and hearing mechanisms. Through engaging coursework and hands-on experiences, they gain proficiency in identifying and explaining the physiological processes involved in speech production and auditory function. This foundational knowledge is essential in preparing students for careers in speech-language pathology and audiology.
Utilizing the Bloom and Lahey Language Model
The program introduces students to the Bloom and Lahey language model, emphasizing the components of form, content, and use. This framework enables graduates to accurately describe the stages of typical language development.
Analyzing Typical Language Skills of Children
Students learn to analyze typical language development in children, assessing developmental stages from birth through the emergence of simple sentences. This understanding is essential for graduates, as it provides a foundation for advanced graduate coursework focused on the assessment and treatment of language disorders.
Real-World Applications
The program emphasizes hands-on learning to ensure students not only understand theoretical concepts but also develop practical skills essential for real-world application. A key feature is the senior clinic, where students gain direct experience working with clients under the supervision of experienced faculty.
Through these clinical engagements, students refine their foundational skills in a real-world setting, gaining invaluable experience that prepares them to navigate the challenges and opportunities of their future careers.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University recognizes the importance of incorporating the latest practices into its curriculum. As a result, students are trained to apply evidence-based practices throughout their coursework and clinical experiences.
The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders offers a broad array of clinical materials and instruments for both educational and practical use, providing students with hands-on experience using the latest technologies and tools employed by speech-language pathologists.
Hands-on Activities
Seniors are encouraged to apply for the undergraduate clinic in their final spring semester. This unique opportunity allows selected students to apply their classroom knowledge in a real-world clinical setting.
Additionally, undergraduate students frequently engage in research projects and have opportunities to attend the state professional conference, with some even participating in the national conference.
What You’ll Learn:
- Hands-on learning with theoretical concepts
- Practice in assessment and intervention
- Integration of evidence-based practice
- Preparation for graduate work in speech-language pathology or audiology
- Opportunities for undergraduate research and conferences
How You’ll Learn:
- A blend of academic coursework and clinical experience
- Hands-on learning with theoretical concepts
- Access to the latest clinical materials and instruments
- Senior clinic for real-world challenges
- Flexibility with online and on-campus options
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) or $3,975.75* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related programs
Fort Hays State University offers a dedicated faculty, exceptional clinical experiences, and a supportive learning environment that fosters academic excellence. Two additional programs related to this field include:
Information about the Department of Communication Sciences
FHSU’s Department of Communication Sciences prepares students to make a real difference in supporting the improvement of people’s lives. Through applied learning and clinical experiences, our undergraduate and graduate programs equip students to become positive, effective collaborators in educational and healthcare settings. With a 100% career placement rate over the past three years, our supportive staff and comprehensive education ensure a future where you can change your life while helping others.
As a student, you’ll begin professional development through student organizations, gain real-world experience with clients at the Herndon Clinic, enjoy small classes, and join the National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association (NSSLHA). Our programs provide opportunities for research, faculty mentorship, and external clinical experiences, preparing you for a fulfilling career in various healthcare settings. Our graduates are highly sought-after speech-language pathologists, ready to excel in a diverse, global society.