BS in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) Degree

A bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and disorders may help prepare you for speech-language pathology assistant, or SLPA, opportunities. However, SLPA requirements vary by state and may include specific coursework, supervised field experience, registration, certification or licensure. Students are responsible for reviewing the SLPA requirements in the state where they plan to work. ASHA notes that state laws and regulations differ in how they recognize assistant certification.

Yes. Speech-language pathologists typically need at least a master’s degree in speech-language pathology and all states require speech-language pathologists to be licensed.^{(See disclaimer 3)} Licensure requirements vary by state but commonly include graduate education, supervised clinical experience and passing an exam.^{(See disclaimer 3)}

A bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and disorders builds foundational knowledge in the field and can help you prepare for entrance into a graduate speech pathology or audiology program. While completing your undergraduate degree, you may also qualify for early career roles, such as a speech–language pathology assistant (SLPA).^{(See disclaimer 2)} However, the undergraduate degree itself does not qualify you to practice as a speech pathologist or audiologist — both require graduate degrees and licensure.^{(See disclaimer 3,5)} 

Yes. While online CSD courses may be completed remotely, practicum, clinical and field experiences must be completed in person locally.

Program length can vary based on factors such as full-time or part-time enrollment, transfer credits, course availability and individual degree requirements. For the most accurate timeline, students should review GCU’s current program details or speak with a university counselor.

Before choosing a CSD degree, consider your long-term career goal, whether you want to pursue SLPA-related opportunities or graduate study in speech-language pathology, and the licensure requirements in the state where you plan to work. Also consider whether the coursework aligns with your interests, as CSD programs often include speech and language development, anatomy and physiology, phonetics, audiology, communication disorders and evidence-based intervention concepts. GCU’s program also includes in-person practicum, clinical or field experiences, even for online students.

A bachelor's degree in communication sciences and disorders provides foundational undergraduate preparation in speech, language, hearing, communication development and related disorders.^{(See disclaimer 3)} A master's degree in speech-language pathology provides advanced clinical preparation and is the pathway to becoming a licensed speech-language pathologist — ASHA identifies it as the entry-level degree for ASHA certification.^{(See disclaimer 6)}