Speech Language Pathology (SLP)

SLP 220  Introduction to Communicative Disorders  (3)  

A study of the causes, characteristics, and treatments of speech, language, and hearing disorders. Course content also includes speech and language development and suggestions for living and working with those who have communicative disorders.

SLP 224  American Sign Language 1  (3)  

Introduction to basic sign language. American Sign Language syntax and vocabulary are emphasized as well as sign communication, which focuses on the native language of the Deaf. Appreciation and awareness of Deaf culture is a major consideration within the course.

SLP 230  Anatomy and Physiology of the Speech and Hearing Mechanism  (3)  

A survey of the anatomy and physiology for respiration, phonation, articulation, the nervous system, and hearing. Areas of study will include skeletal structures, muscles, tendons, nerves and circulation necessary for speech and hearing. Prerequisite SLP 220.

SLP 240  Phonetics  (3)  

A study of the basic principles of speech production: anatomy and physiology of the speech mechanism, phonetic principles of the International Phonetic Alphabet, application of phonetic theory and dialects as represented by phonetics.

SLP 310  Child Language Development  (3)  

A study of the development of oral language communicative competence in infants, toddlers, and children. Course content focuses on the development of the linguistic domains of form (phonology, morphology, and syntax), content (semantics) and use (pragmatics). In addition, social, cognitive, and neurological aspects are addressed. Prerequisite: SLP 220.

SLP 324  American Sign Language 2  (3)  

This course is designed to further develop ASL skills learned in ASL 1. Along with some review, new content and vocabulary will be introduced as well as important issues and information related to the Deaf/Hard of Hearing community. Prerequisite: SLP 224

SLP 330  Speech and Hearing Sciences  (3)  

An introduction to speech and hearing science, including acoustics, speech production, and instrumentation used in the study of speech and hearing science. Prerequisite: SLP 220.

SLP 334  Evaluation Procedures in Speech and Language Pathology  (3)  

This course provides the student with information about the process of evaluating and diagnosing speech-language disorders. A broad range of information and laboratory experience relevant to evaluation procedures in speech and language pathology is provided. Areas of emphasis include: the diagnostic process, collection of intake information, common assessment procedures, assessment in specific disorder areas, language sample collection and analysis, report writing, and standardized test administration. Prerequisites: SLP 220, SLP 230, SLP 240, and SLP 310.

SLP 340  Audiology for the Speech-Language Pathologist  (3)  

This course is designed to familiarize the student with the field of audiology in general and provide the foundations for understanding the auditory system, performing and interpreting basic hearing tests as they relate to auditory disorders, and gaining an appreciation for the profession of audiology. Prerequisite: SLP 220

SLP 350  Speech Sound Disorders  (3)  

This course is designed to introduce you to the study of normal and disordered articulation. You will gain familiarity with traditional views of articulation disorders and their treatment as well as current treatment methods derived from the study of phonology. Provides the opportunity to develop and analyze therapy programs for speech sound disorders from a variety of etiologically defined groups. Prerequisites: SLP 240, SLP 310, and SLP 334.

SLP 360  Adult Acquired Language Disorders  (3)  

This course will provide introductory knowledge and skills to understanding adult acquired communication disorders. The course content will focus on disordered communication processes associated with acquired neurogenic disorders (i.e., stroke (left and right hemisphere disorders), traumatic brain injury, dementia, and neurodegenerative disease processes (i.e., Parkinson’s Disease, ALS, etc.). The social, financial, cultural issues that are impacted due to these disorders will be emphasized.

SLP 380  Medical Rehabilitation  (3)  

This course will provide introductory knowledge and skills to understanding the neuroscience of medical rehabilitation. The course content will focus on medical terminology, examples of typical and atypical communication and swallowing disorders in the health care setting, related anatomy and physiology of such disorders, ethical decision-making theories, counseling, end of life issues, healthcare management of older adults, national trends in neuro rehabilitation, and as applicable evidence from the scientific literature. The social, financial, cultural issues that are impacted will be emphasized.

SLP 412  Clinical Methods and Supervised Observation  (3)  

This course provides the student with information about clinical methods and intervention procedures for individuals with developmental and acquired communication disorders. In addition, a minimum of 25 supervised observation hours are required. Prerequisites: SLP 220, SLP 230, SLP 240, SLP 310, SLP 330, and SLP 334.

SLP 420  Aural Rehabilitation  (3)  

This course introduces students to the theories and procedures used to provide aural/audiological rehabilitation to children and adults who have hearing loss and to provide concomitant services to their family members. Prerequisites: SLP 340

SLP 450  Multi-Cultural Populations: Communication Disorders Across Cultures  (3)  

This course examines the background, values/beliefs, and language issues of culturally and linguistically diverse populations. Specifically, Black, Latino, Native American, and Asian populations are studied to aid in distinguishing language differences from disorders.

SLP 485  SLP Clinical Practicum  (3)  

Provides clinical experience for students interested in speech language pathology. Prerequisite: SLP 220, SLP 230, SLP 240, SLP 310, SLP 330, SLP 334 and SLP 412.

SLP 486  Research Practicum  (1-3)  

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to research in the fields of speech language pathology and audiology. Through participation in original experimental or theoretical investigations and in collaboration with a member of the faculty, students will relate research to clinical practice, both from a historical perspective and a contemporary, evidence-based practice perspective. Students will enhance their research skills, and hone their clinical and research interests and professional development through this course. Repeatable to 6 credit hours.

SLP 490  Special Topics  (1-3)  

Topics of special interest in communicative disorders not covered in the regular department offerings. May be repeated with different topic.

SLP 497  Independent Study  (1-3)  

Students may carry independent study with an approved instructor. Content is dependent on student need and interest. Prerequisite:Department Approval.

SLP 499  Internship  (1-3)