David L. McPherson, Chair
136 TLRB, (801) 422-4318
David O. McKay School of Education Advisement and Certification Office
120 MCKB, (801) 422-3426
Admission to Degree Program
The degree program in the Department of Communication Disorders is open enrollment.
The Discipline
Audiology is a relatively new discipline that relies on technology to deal with its primary concern, the measurement of hearing and hearing loss. Audiology includes studying the nervous system to learn how we sense, perceive, and derive information from the sense organs. Audiology students also learn about the development of speech and language, the anatomy and physiology of the ear, a variety of electronic test instruments that reveal the function of the intricate processes involved in hearing, and disorders and diseases of hearing. Physicians use audiological findings to diagnose and treat hearing problems. This information is also used in counseling the hearing impaired and for prescribing hearing aids. Teachers use the knowledge to understand and help children with hearing impairments.
The discipline of speech-language pathology emerged to help people who have lost or have never had the ability to speak normally. It serves persons with speech and language disorders such as stuttering, articulation problems, aphasia, voice problems, language delay, and similar disabilities. Students learn about speech and language development, the anatomy and physiology of the speech mechanism, the neurology of perception and production of speech and language, impairments that cause speech and language disorders, and communication disorders remediation. Professionals work in public schools, hospitals, private or community clinics, or private practice.
Career Opportunities
This is a preprofessional program leading to a master's degree that is required for entrance into the profession.
Graduation Requirements
To receive a BYU bachelor's degree a student must complete, in addition to all requirements for a specific major, the following university requirements:
Undergraduate Programs and Degrees
Students should see their college advisement center for help or information concerning the undergraduate programs.
Graduate Programs and Degrees
MS in Communication Disorders
For more information see the BYU 2008–2009 Graduate Catalog.