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?
We offer a range of distinctive opportunities, including senior clinic experiences that prepare you for real-world challenges. Additionally, we provide financial assistance for attending state and national conferences, allowing you to network and explore the latest developments in the field.
Moreover, FHSU is proud to offer Kansas's only on-campus or 100% online speech-language pathology assistant certificate option, which makes us a leader in hands-on learning opportunities. Our commitment to innovation extends to our comprehensive online Bachelor of Science program, providing flexibility without compromising quality.
Who is this program for?
A diverse range of individuals could find their ideal academic and career path within its curriculum. The appeals are to a wide range of individuals with unique aspirations and goals. The specific groups include:
- 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
The B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders 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 our program:
Identifying The Anatomy and Physiology of The Speech and Hearing Mechanisms
Students develop a comprehensive understanding of the intricate anatomy and physiology of the speech and hearing mechanisms. Through engaging coursework and authentic experiences, students gain proficiency in recognizing and describing the physiological processes involved in speech production as well as the intricacies of auditory processes. It is foundational knowledge that forms a crucial aspect of their preparation for a career in speech-language pathology and audiology.
Utilizing The Bloom and Lahey Language Model
The program introduces students to the Bloom & Lahey language model, focusing on form, content, and use. This enables our alums to describe language stages for typical language development.
Analyzing Typical Language Skills of Children
Students learn to analyze children's typical language development, determining their developmental levels from birth through the formation of simple sentences. This is crucial for our graduates since knowing typical language development is essential for later graduate coursework that focuses on assessment and treatment of language disorders.
Real-World Applications
Our program emphasizes hands-on learning, making sure students grasp theoretical concepts and acquire practical skills essential for real-world applications. One of the hallmarks of our program is the senior clinic, where students can put their learning into practice by working with real clients under the guidance of experienced faculty members.
Our students engage with clients in a clinical setting, honing their base clinical skills. The invaluable experience provides a real-world practice, which trains students for the challenges and opportunities they will encounter in their future careers.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University understands the importance of integrating the newest practices into our curriculum. Therefore, our students learn to incorporate evidence-based practice into their coursework and clinical experiences.
Our department boasts a wide range of clinical materials and instruments used for both educational and practical purposes. This means you'll gain experience with the latest technologies and tools speech-language pathologists employ.
Hands-on Activities
Seniors are encouraged to apply for the undergraduate clinic during their final spring semester. It is a unique opportunity where selected students are given a clinical assignment that allows them to incorporate their classroom knowledge into a real-world experience.
In addition, undergraduate students regularly have opportunities to participate in undergraduate research and to attend the state professional conference. Some even have the chance to participate 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 $2,961.90* (on-campus) or $3,859.95* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($197.46/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (257.33/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
FHSU boasts a dedicated faculty, exceptional clinical experiences, and a supportive learning environment that fosters outstanding academic success. There are two additional programs related to this one:
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.
- Bachelors
- On-Campus
- Online
