A detailed review of etiologies and characteristics of speech sound disorders including phonological process analysis, formal and informal assessment strategies, differential diagnosis, treatment planning, and selection of targets. The use of culturally responsive practices for a diverse society will be emphasized.  

Principles and practices of diagnostic evaluations in speech-language pathology for individuals with suspected speech and/or language impairments. Students will practice taking case history information, development assessment plans, conducting evaluations, writing diagnostic reports, and developing treatment goals. 

This course focuses on breadth of formal and informal diagnostic skills utilized in speech-language pathology. Virtual, simulated clinical practicum experiences will be supervised and debriefed by licensed, certified speech-language pathologists. Students will also gain introductory information related to the clinical practicum sequence and expectations across the M.S. SLP program. A minimum of 25 clinical clock hours will be gained in this course toward ASHA Certification requirements.

This virtual practicum focuses on foundational treatment skills useful across the scope of practice such developing goals, determining treatment targets, and using data to make treatment decisions. Virtual client cases will be supervised by licensed, certified speech-language pathologists who meet the ASHA supervision requirements. Students will gain a minimum of 25 clinical clock hours in this practicum experience.

The first of a two-part course sequence of dysphagia study designed to meet the breadth and depth of knowledge and skill required by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association for clinical practice in dysphagia. This course includes the study of normal swallow physiology, characteristics and etiologies of swallowing disorders. Students will be introduced to clinical and instrumental evaluation procedures across for children and adults.  

Assessment, intervention, and service models for children with language disorders from preschool through adolescence. Federal laws and regulatory issues across practice settings will be discussed. Providing culturally sensitive, client and family-centered care within an interdisciplinary, collaborative environment will be emphasized.

The second of a two-part course sequence of dysphagia study designed to meet the breadth and depth of knowledge and skill required by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association for clinical practice in dysphagia. This course focuses on evidence-based evaluation and treatment of swallowing disorders across the lifespan. Interprofessional considerations will be discussed.

Students will develop knowledge and skills in identifying sources of research, critical evaluation of various research methodologies in speech-language pathology, and integration of research to improve efficacy and effectiveness of clinical practice.

Study of current theories and models of aphasia as applied to differential diagnosis, assessment, and rehabilitation from a clinical case perspective. Culturally responsive practices and interprofessional roles in case management are included.

This course focuses on the science and art of innovation in speech-language pathology. Students will use frameworks of innovation that integrate research evidence, creativity, and critical thinking to challenge their own assumptions and consider ways to strengthen the profession. All students complete a foundational knowledge module and then choose two additional modules to create an individualized elective that aligns with areas of professional interest.

The study of normal and abnormal processes of voice and resonance. Application of instrumental and perceptual evaluation strategies to assess vocal function. The functional, organic, neurogenic, and psychogenic etiologies will be explored in children and adults. Client-centered practices in treatment will be emphasized and counseling of individuals with laryngectomy and other pathologies will be addressed.

Examine communication and swallowing practices in evaluation and intervention within the context of a diverse society. Apply foundational information in cultural awareness to determine client differences versus client disorders.

This course provides a foundation in the science of stuttering, cluttering, and other fluency disorders. Etiologies, characteristics, assessment, and treatment of fluency disorders in children and adults will be included. Specific considerations in adolescents including counseling and interprofessional collaboration will be discussed.

This asynchronous course is designed to support in-depth learning in an area of special interest. With guidance from a faculty mentor, students choose an area of clinical or professional interest and develop a comprehensive review of past, present, and future clinical practice trends. Students will also develop a continuous learning professional development plan that includes exploration and identification of opportunities for additional professional development/credential in the selected area of interest.

The assessment and treatment of cognitive communication disorders through in-depth review of theoretical, neurological, and clinical perspectives. Right hemisphere dysfunction, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative disorders of cognition will be covered. Ethical and culturally sensitive practices will be emphasized.

Applied clinical and practical issues related to assessment and treatment of individuals with complex communication needs who require augmentative or alternative communication strategies to meet communication needs. Emphasis on culturally appropriate, client-family centered care across the lifespan.

This course focuses on current issues that affect speech-language pathology. Instruction will include information about certification, specialty recognition, licensure, and other credentialing requirements across practice settings. Regulatory affairs and legal issues in educational, healthcare, and private practice settings will be included. Professional association memberships such as ASHA and state level associations will be discussed along with opportunities for advocacy to support continual improvement of the profession.

This course focuses on assessment and intervention of the mutually exclusive disorders of autism spectrum disorder and social communication disorder. Differential diagnosis and evidence-based assessment and treatment strategies will be discussed in relation to the role of the speech-language pathologist as part of an interprofessional team. Culturally appropriate, client/family-centered strategies that value diverse perspectives will be emphasized.

This course will explore the neurological bases, assessment, differential diagnosis, and treatment of motor speech disorders in adults and children. The course will introduce students to the principles of neuroplasticity and principles of motor learning. Contemporary issues and approaches to the rehabilitation and management of motor speech disorders will be emphasized.

Practicum placement in an educational, clinical, hospital, home health, hospice, private practice, early intervention, or other community site in which speech-language pathology services are provided and supervision by a licensed, certified speech-language pathologist is available. Each week, students meet in small groups with the Clinical Director for a weekly clinician meeting. This ensures consistent communication between the students and Clinical Director.