Minor in Speech-Language Pathology

Hours: 20 On-Campus Online

About

A Minor in Speech-Language Pathology provides students with a comprehensive introduction to speech, language, and hearing science. Offered both online and on-campus, the program enhances a student's primary degree by providing valuable knowledge in communication disorders. With 20 total credit hours, students complete 12 required credits and choose eight elective credits, allowing them to tailor their learning experience.

The coursework explains how speech and language develop throughout life and how disorders impact communication. Topics include the basics of communication sciences, hearing disorders, language development, and the physiology of speech.

Why pursue a Minor in Speech-Language Pathology at Fort Hays State University?

Fort Hays State University offers a unique and adaptable Minor in Speech-Language Pathology that supports a variety of undergraduate majors. Online and on-campus course delivery allows students the flexibility to customize their academic experience to fit their personal schedules and career goals.

The minor at FHSU offers a strong foundational curriculum and the opportunity to choose elective coursework that aligns with individual interests. Hands-on learning occurs throughout the courses, and faculty bring real-time updates from national and state conferences into the classroom.

Who is this program for?

The Minor in Speech-Language Pathology is suitable for students who want to understand how communication affects human interaction, learning, and well-being. It is ideal for individuals looking to enter fields that involve people with communication challenges or planning to pursue graduate-level education. The program's flexible design allows students from various majors to enhance their academic and professional credentials:

Students interested in health or education related professions
Psychology majors seeking communication disorder knowledge
Education majors preparing for inclusive classrooms
Nursing and health science students pursuing support roles

Learning Outcomes

The Minor in Speech-Language Pathology develops a comprehensive understanding of communication and the factors that influence it throughout an individual's life. By completing this program, students gain scientific and clinical knowledge and develop interpersonal and observational skills essential to working in diverse, people-centered fields.

Foundational Knowledge of Communication Disorders

Students will gain a scientific understanding of how typical communication develops and how speech and language disorders disrupt those processes. It includes an overview of articulation, fluency, voice, and receptive and expressive language disorders.

Use of Clinical and Professional Terminology

Students will be fluent in the terminology used by professionals in communication sciences and disorders. It enables effective communication with speech-language pathologists, audiologists, educators, and healthcare professionals. Students can contribute to support plans and understand clinical discussions.

Application of Skills in Real-World Contexts

Students will develop the ability to recognize and respond to speech and hearing issues within educational, medical, and social environments. Whether providing classroom support or assisting with therapeutic interventions, students will apply their academic learning in meaningful ways that improve outcomes for individuals with communication disorders.

Real-World Applications

The Minor in Speech-Language Pathology equips students with essential skills relevant to many professional environments, particularly those involving education, healthcare, and support services. With training in communication disorders, students can work alongside professionals in schools, therapy clinics, and healthcare facilities.

The Minor in Speech Language Pathology program introduces terminology, concepts, and practical skills required at the advanced level. Students will understand how communication affects quality of life and be ready to advocate for and support individuals with communication needs across the lifespan.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

FHSU ensures students stay current with developments in communication sciences by embedding up-to-date content into the minor. Faculty members regularly attend industry conferences and integrate cutting-edge research, trends, and technology into their courses.

In addition to course content updates, students learn about modern topics, such as teletherapy, inclusive education practices, and digital diagnostic tools. These advancements prepare students for work environments where speech-language professionals often collaborate through technology or work in remote and diverse settings.

Hands-on Activities

FHSU emphasizes experiential learning through lab-based components and interactive exercises within the coursework. Students get exposure to real-world scenarios and case-based learning that encourage them to analyze speech and language patterns, identify disorders, and consider treatment strategies.

Even though it is an undergraduate minor, the courses have practical components in mind. Rather than relying solely on textbook knowledge, students should engage actively with course material. Role-playing, video analysis, and group discussions are common, making learning more dynamic and directly applicable to future work in the field.

What You’ll Learn:

Basics of communication sciences
Impact of disorders on quality of life
Foundations in hearing and language development
Essential speech and language terminology
Overview of disorders across the lifespan

How You’ll Learn:

Interactive lab-style class components
Coursework delivered in flexible formats
In-person or online options are available
Learn from experienced CSD faculty
Applied learning through case examples

Courses

The Minor in Speech-Language Pathology core curriculum introduces students to the science behind communication. Required courses focus on understanding normal and disordered speech and language development, the physiological mechanisms behind speech and hearing, and the role of hearing science in diagnosis and support.

SLP 160: Introduction to Communication Disorders

The basic course covering speech-language-hearing disorders and intervention methods.

SLP 370: Early Speech and Language Development

Study of the development of the communication process from birth through the preschool years with an emphasis on milestones in the child's development of the phonologic, morphologic, syntactic, semantic, and pragmatic systems. Relationships of cognitive and social skills as well as theories of development will be examined.

SLP 402: Clinical Phonetics

Study of the perception and production of speech sounds. It deals with phonetics as it applies to speech disorders.

Discover the full Minor in Speech-Language Pathology course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

The Minor in Speech-Language Pathology provides foundational knowledge that leads to various professional paths. Whether entering the job market directly or continuing into a bachelor’s degree or certificate program, students will find that the skills and understanding gained from this minor increase their competitiveness and effectiveness in communication-related roles.

Educational Support Specialist

Graduates may work in school systems supporting students with speech, language, and hearing difficulties. That role involves collaborating with special education staff, helping implement individualized education plans (IEPs), and creating a supportive learning environment. The minor's coursework in communication disorders makes graduates strong candidates for these positions.

Healthcare Communication Aide

In hospitals and healthcare settings, professionals with a background in communication sciences and disorders can serve in roles that support patient care and communication. Responsibilities include facilitating communication for patients with speech impairments, supporting therapy teams, and helping educate families about communication strategies.

Special Education Paraprofessional

This role involves working closely with children with diverse learning and communication needs. The minor equips students with the knowledge to support speech and language development as part of a broader educational support team. Understanding how communication disorders affect learning is vital in this setting, and FHSU's minor delivers that insight.

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.

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Related Programs

Fort Hays State University offers several complementary programs for students interested in communication sciences, education, and health. These related programs provide opportunities for expanded learning and can pair with the minor for broader career pathways:

FAQ

What careers can I pursue with a Minor in Speech-Language Pathology?

Students may work as educational aides, healthcare support staff, or pursue further study.

Is this program offered online?

Yes, most courses are available in person and online, offering flexibility for students.

Can I pair this minor with any major?

Yes, it complements many degrees, such as education, psychology, nursing, and health sciences.

Will this minor help me get into graduate school?

Yes, this minor could add unique skills to their application to several graduate programs, including related areas such as occupational therapy, special education, or psychology.

What kind of hands-on experience is in the coursework?

Courses often include lab-style activities, video analyses, and practical case-based discussions that simulate real-world scenarios.

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.

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Speech-Language Pathology

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