Bachelor’s in Communication Sciences and Disorders Degree

Q: Is communication sciences and disorders a STEM major?

Yes. Science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs at GCU provide you with a 21st-century education, teaching you modern-day principles through an ethical, Christian worldview. STEM programs can prepare you to drive change in the field of your choice.

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Degree Level

Bachelor's

Class Setting

Online

Area of Study

Science

Program

BS in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Current Education Level

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Citizenship Status

U.S. Citizen

Military Affiliation

No military affiliation

Country

United States

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Overview

Gain Foundational Knowledge of Communication Disorders

The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Communication Sciences and Disorders degree at GCU can equip you with a foundation of knowledge of developmental and acquired speech and language disorders. You work directly with clients and families to gain hands-on experience. As a graduate of this program, you will be taught to support those with impairments in communication by implementing evidenced-based therapeutic methodologies and functional intervention as a speech-language pathology assistant (SLPA).^{(See disclaimer 1 )}

SLPAs may work in school systems, early intervention, private clinics, rehabilitation centers and other health-related environments. SLPAs are eligible to become American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) members through their Assistants Certification Program.

Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Offered By

College of Nursing and Health Care Professions

Class Settings

Campus

Online

Tuition Rate

Campus: $8,250 per semester [More Info]

Online: $450 per credit [More Info]

Cost of Attendance

Course Information

Credits: 120

Campus: 15 weeks

Online: 7 weeks

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Transfer Credits

Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division

Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)

16+ years old
High School Graduate
3.0+ Unweighted GPA

OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and

ACT: 19
SAT: 1000*

Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).

Why GCU

Earn Your BS in Communication Sciences and Disorders at GCU

This communication sciences and disorders bachelor’s degree is for anyone who is looking to serve individuals with communication and related disorders while making ethical decisions and practicing cultural humility. Additionally, this degree can help you gain the knowledge and skills necessary to go on to graduate school to become a speech-language pathologist, audiologist or speech, language and hearing scientist.

Take Communication Sciences and Disorders Courses Online

You have the opportunity to complete your CSD undergraduate degree online. As you complete your studies, you can take advantage of the flexibility and convenience that online courses offer. You will also have access to the various online learning resources and support that GCU provides throughout your program.

Online Learning

Coursework

Course Topics for the CSD Undergraduate Degree

During your communication sciences and disorders undergraduate program, you will cover various topics related to typical and disordered speech, language, hearing and swallowing.

Learning about these topics will be critical to your ability to provide understanding, treatment and rehabilitation to those with communication disorders and challenges.

Careers

Career Paths in Communication Sciences and Disorders

As a graduate of this bachelor’s degree, you will have been taught knowledge that can help you prepare yourself for professional positions in the field. Along with gaining knowledge of various aspects of human communication disorders, you can also acquire an understanding of cultural humility, and you will be taught how to show respect for those with different values from a variety of backgrounds. These skills, along with leadership, problem-solving and ethical decision-making skills, are applicable to various careers related to communication sciences and disorders.

One role that graduates of this program may choose to pursue is that of a speech-language pathology assistant. SLPAs support licensed speech–language pathologists with their day-to-day tasks. These tasks can include assisting in therapeutic services, relaying information to patients and their families and performing administrative duties.

Accreditation

Earn Your CSD Undergraduate Degree From an Accredited University

When deciding on a university to complete your communication sciences and disorders degree with, it’s important to review the university’s accreditation. Institutional accreditation reflects the quality of that institution and the programs it offers. GCU is proudly accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and has been so since 1968, offering programs that meet rigorous educational standards.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Read through our frequently asked questions to learn more about earning a degree in this field.

Will a communication sciences and disorders degree prepare me to be a speech pathologist or audiologist?

A communication sciences and disorders bachelor’s degree is a great way to jumpstart a career in speech pathology or audiology. After graduating, you may be eligible to work as an SLPA and support speech–language pathologists in their day-to-day activities.

Although the undergraduate degree itself does not qualify you to become a speech pathologist or audiologist, it can prepare you for entrance into a graduate speech pathology or audiology program. In your graduate program, you will complete master’s-level coursework and work to attain licensure and/or certification from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) to become a certified speech–language pathologist or audiologist. A master’s degree is the minimal entry-level degree to work as an SLP and a doctoral degree (AuD or PhD) is required to work as an audiologist or speech and hearing scientist.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Is a BS in Communication Sciences and Disorders a hard major?

There is a lot to learn in the field of communication sciences and disorders. From the physical anatomy of our communication systems to understanding numerous disorders and applying knowledge of different cultural backgrounds, the material in this undergraduate program is certainly diverse. Applying yourself, focusing on your studies and being sure to take advantage of the resources that your university offers can aid you in completing this degree.

Is communication sciences and disorders a STEM major?

Courses

Program Curriculum

Credit Summary

General Education Requirements34-40 credits

Major74 credits

Open Elective Credits6-12 credits

Degree Requirements120 credits

General Education Requirements

General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.

Competency

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.

Competency

9-12 Total Credits

Competency

4 Total Credits

Competency

11-12 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.

Competency

6-8 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.

Core Courses

BIO-201

3 Total Credits

BIO-201L

1 Total Credits

CSD-110

4 Total Credits

BIO-202

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is the second in a two-course sequence examining the structure and function of the human body and mechanisms for maintaining homeostasis within it. This portion includes the study of immunity; metabolism; energetics; fluid, electrolyte and acid-base balance; and the endocrine, hematologic, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. Prerequisites: BIO-201 and BIO-201L. Co-Requisite: BIO-202L.

BIO-202L

1 Total Credits

CSD-220

4 Total Credits

CSD-230

4 Total Credits

PHY-111

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is a study of basic concepts of physics, including motion; forces; energy; the properties of solids, liquids, and gases; and heat and thermodynamics. The mathematics used includes algebra, trigonometry, and vector analysis. A primary course goal is to build a functional knowledge that allows students to more fully understand the physical world and to apply that understanding to other areas of the natural and mathematical sciences. Conceptual, visual, graphical, and mathematical models of physical phenomena are stressed. Students build critical thinking skills by engaging in individual and group problem-solving sessions. Prerequisite: MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: PHY-111L.

PHY-111L

1 Total Credits

CSD-310

4 Total Credits

MAT-274

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course provides an introduction to the study of basic probability, descriptive and inferential statistics, and decision making. Emphasis is placed on measures of central tendency and dispersion, correlation, regression, discrete and continuous probability distributions, quality control population parameter estimation, and hypothesis testing. Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in MAT-134, MAT-144 or MAT-154.

CSD-320

4 Total Credits

CSD-340

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course uses a cultural humility framework to address the impact of cultural-linguistic factors on clinical service provision. The link between culture and communication is discussed with emphasis on multilingualism, multiculturalism, and the identification of communication differences and disorders. Learners have the opportunity to reflect on their own cultural and linguistic identities and biases to discern how they impact client care. Prerequisite: CSD-110.

CSD-350

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This writing-intensive course focuses on clinical planning and documentation skills. Learners practice writing client goals, session notes, and reports. Special emphasis is placed on critical evaluation of documentation from other care providers, integrating information from multiple sources, and explaining clinical reasoning. Learners gain experience writing concise and thorough clinical reports. Prerequisites: CSD-230 and MAT-274.

SPD-208

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Teacher candidates are introduced to the educational needs of students with mild to moderate disabilities and their families, including the definitions, characteristics, prevalence, causes and educational approaches to these disabilities and disorders. Teacher candidates will identify preventative and responsive practices related to cognitive, linguistic, social, and emotional patterns of learning and development for students with mild to moderate disabilities. Emphasis is placed on identifying appropriate times to differentiate, modify, or accommodate to support student learning. Teacher candidates also survey the special education process involving the application of various laws and regulations. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.

CSD-330

4 Total Credits

CSD-420

4 Total Credits

CSD-410

4 Total Credits

CSD-430

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course examines the scope of practice in speech-language pathology and audiology, common professional issues, and ethical practice patterns. The ethics guidelines and legal requirements set forth by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, national health care organizations, and state organizations are discussed. Learners learn to communicate with an interprofessional team. Prerequisites: CSD-340 and CSD-420.

CSD-440

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course provides an introduction to evidence-based practice and clinical practice patterns in speech-language pathology and audiology. Students critically appraise research, clinical, and client-specific evidence for integration and decision making. Communication screening, assessment, and diagnosis are discussed. Practicum/field experience hours: 25. Fingerprint clearance required.

CSD-490

6 Total Credits

GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change

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Take Your Next Step With GCU

If you’re interested in making a difference in the lives of those with communication impairments, apply online to start your journey toward this field.

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Obtaining SLPA licensure in any state is not guaranteed, students need to research their state’s specific licensing requirements.
More information about careers is available on the ASHA website.