Communication Disorders

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

The discipline of communication disorders contains two related fields, speech-language pathology and audiology. The field of speech-language pathology is focused on helping individuals develop their communication abilities or regain lost communication skills through rehabilitation services. The field serves persons with speech and language disorders such as stuttering, articulation problems, aphasia, voice disorders, language delay, and similar communication difficulties. Students develop a knowledge base about speech and language development, the anatomy and physiology of the speech mechanism, the neurology of perception and production of speech and language, the disorders that cause speech and language problems, and the intervention and remediation strategies for treating communication disorders. Professionals often work in public schools, hospitals, private or community clinics, or private practice.

Audiology is a profession that deals with the measurement of hearing and hearing impairment. Audiology includes the study of the nervous system and how we process auditory information, the testing and analysis of disorders of the auditory system, the use of hearing aids, cochlear implants, and other assistive listening devices to enhance hearing capabilities in individuals with hearing loss or other disorders of the auditory system. Professionals typically work with hearing aid manufacturers, in public schools, hospitals, private or community clinics, or in 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:

• The university core, consisting of requirements in general and religious education. (See University Core for details. For a complete listing of courses that meet university core requirements, see the current class schedule.)
• A minimum of 30 credit hours in residence
• A minimum of 120 credit hours
• A cumulative GPA of at least 2.0
• Be in good standing with the Honor Code Office

Undergraduate Programs and Degrees

BS in Communication Disorders

Minor in Communication Disorders

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 2009–2010 Graduate Catalog.