Communication Sciences and Disorders, B.S./M.S. (5-Year)
Program Description
La Salle University offers a unique five-year Communication Sciences and Disorders major, leading to a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in speech-language pathology. Speech-language pathologists care for people of all ages and cultural backgrounds with communication and swallowing disorders. They assess, treat, and help prevent speech, language, cognitive-communication, voice, swallowing, fluency, and related disorders. The education of speech-language pathologists involves undergraduate coursework in communication sciences and disorders and graduate coursework and clinical experiences in speech-language pathology. A master’s degree is the recognized credential in speech-language pathology. It is required for national certification, state licensure, and Pennsylvania teacher requirements for speech-language pathologists.
Accreditation
The Master of Science (M.S.) education program in speech-language pathology (residential) at La Salle University is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, 2200 Research Boulevard, #310, Rockville, MD 20850, 800-498-2071 or 301-296-5700.
Certification and Licensure
The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) is the national professional, credentialing, and scientific organization for speech-language pathologists, audiologists, and speech-language-hearing scientists. To practice in most work settings, speech-language pathologists must hold a master’s degree and become certified by ASHA. This certification is called the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) and requires completing specific program coursework (including practicum), completing a supervised Clinical Fellowship (CF), and passing a national examination.
For more information about ASHA certification, please visit https://www.asha.org/certification/.
All 50 states require speech-language pathologists to be licensed to practice. For state-specific licensure information (including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware), please visit State-by-State (asha.org).
La Salle University's M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology program is approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for Instructional I Teacher Certification for Speech and Language Impaired PK-12 and Educational Specialist I School Speech & Language Pathologist PK-12. One of these certificates is required to work as an SLP in Pennsylvania schools. Candidates applying for either certificate are required to pass the appropriate PRAXIS Test/s administered by the Educational Testing Service. Information about the PRAXIS Tests is available at http://www.ets.org/praxis/pa. Other states may also require prospective school-based SLPs to take these or other examinations. In addition to all the requirements for completing the Master's degree, the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders Faculty must recommend candidates for Instructional I certificates. Recommendations are predicated upon completing all course requirements with the required grade point average (minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a minimum GPA of 3.0 in CSD courses).
Clinical Experiences
The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology offers clinical education at various practicum sites. The CSD Department has established strong ties with more than 250 schools, hospitals, private practices, and rehabilitation facilities for supervised clinical practicum affiliations in the greater Philadelphia area. Currently, these include acute-care hospitals (pediatric and adult); rehabilitation hospitals (pediatric and adult); specialized schools; elementary, middle, and high schools in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware; intermediate units in Pennsylvania and educational services units in New Jersey; and private practices in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.
The National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association
The National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association (NSSLHA) is a pre-professional membership association for students interested in communication sciences and disorders. La Salle University formed an ASHA-recognized NSSLHA chapter in 2002. Membership in the La Salle NSSLHA chapter is available to undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in one of the Communication Sciences and Disorders programs.
Student NSSLHA members can increase their involvement in the field by visiting professional work sites, engaging in group outreach programs, attending panel discussions, fundraising, and more. NSSLHA membership allows students to engage in leadership activities locally and nationally by promoting dialogue between students, professionals, and community members.
Visit the NSSLHA Web site: www.nsslha.org.
CSD Student Handbook
The Communication Sciences and Disorders Student Handbook contains program-specific rules, guidelines, and procedures for progression and will be available to all students.
Why Take This Major?
The Five-Year B.S. to M.S. Program in Speech-Language Pathology is an accelerated program in which students can earn a bachelor's and master's degree in five years. A master's degree is the entry-level degree needed to become a speech-language pathologist. This program is reserved for the most competitive students. Students with outstanding academic backgrounds can be admitted directly into the Five-Year Program as freshmen. High-achieving students admitted to the Communication Sciences and Disorders B.S. program as first-year students may be invited to apply to the Five-Year Program during their sophomore year. Please see the Communication Sciences and Disorders Student Handbook for criteria for the 5-Year B.S./M.S. program invitation.
Degree Earned
B.S. and M.S.
Required for Graduation
- Courses
- Major: 24
- Total: 40
- Credits
- Major: 72-74
- Total: 120 to earn B.S.
- GPA
- Major: 3.5
- Cumulative: 3.5 to earn B.S.
- The M.S. degree requires an additional 60 credits of graduate level courses and a GPA of 3.0
Student Learning Outcomes
The following objectives reflect entry-level competency in all the basic human communication and swallowing areas, including articulation, fluency, voice and resonance, receptive and expressive language, hearing, including the impact on speech and language, swallowing, cognitive and social aspects of communication, and communication modalities.
The codes listed at the end of each objective refer to the current ASHA CFCC Certification Standards in Speech-Language Pathology.
- Demonstrate proficiency in oral and written communication sufficient for entry into professional practice. (V-A)
- Apply basic biological/physical science, statistics, and behavioral/social science to the study of communication and swallowing disorders. (IV-A)
- Analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information in the areas of basic human communication and swallowing processes. (IV-B)
- Contrast basic human communication and swallowing processes with communication and swallowing disorders and differences. (IV-B, IV-C)
- Demonstrate clinical skills in assessment, intervention, and prevention of human communication and swallowing disorders. (IV-C; IV-D; IV-E; V-B)
- Integrate and demonstrate ethical, legal, and professional standards in the provision of speech-language pathology services. (IV-E; IV-G; V-B)
- Integrate research with clinical knowledge to improve the evaluation and treatment of individuals with communication and swallowing disorders. (IV-B; IV-C; IV-D; IV-E; IV-F; IV-G; V-B)
- Critique professional issues in speech-language pathology and advocate for individuals with communication and swallowing disorders. (IV-D; IV-E; IV-F; IV-G)
- Pursue education and credentials necessary for obtaining/maintaining certification and licensure. Pursue ongoing professional development. (IV-G; IV-H; V-C; V-D; V-E; V-F, VI)
- Implement appropriate assessment and intervention for diverse client populations across the lifespan. (IV-B; IV-C; IV-D,V-B; V-F)
- Evaluate individuals with communication and swallowing disorders utilizing appropriate diagnostic tools. (IV-C; IV-D; V-B; V-F)
- Provide intervention for individuals with communication and swallowing disorders utilizing appropriate clinical methods and strategies. (IV-C, IV-D; V-B; V-F)
- Practice independently and collaboratively in various healthcare and educational systems in an appropriate professional manner. (IV-A through IV-H; V-A through V-F)
Progress Chart
Level One - Core Courses
12 courses and 2 modules required.
Major Requirements
Major requirements include 4 Level Two ILO requirements, fulfilled through the major.
Students in this major must complete 40 courses in total in order to graduate. 24 courses will be from this major program.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Level One - Core Courses | ||
| Universal Required Courses | ||
| Students must complete the following 4 courses. | ||
| ILO 8.1: Written Communication | ||
| ENG 110 | College Writing I: Persuasion | 3 |
| ILO 5.1: Information Literacy | ||
| ENG 210 | College Writing II: Research | 3 |
| ILO 1.1: Understanding Diverse Perspectives | ||
| FYS 130 | First-Year Academic Seminar 1 | 3 |
| ILO 2.1: Reflective Thinking and Valuing | ||
| REL 100 | Religion Matters | 3 |
| Elective Core Courses | ||
| Students must complete 1 course in each of the following 4 ILOs. | ||
| ILO 3.1a: Scientific Reasoning | ||
| BIO 161 | Anatomy and Physiology (with lab) | 4 |
| or BIO 158 | Life Science: A Human Approach | |
| ILO 3.1b: Quantitative Reasoning | ||
| HSC 217 | Statistics for Health Science Profs | 3 |
| ILO 6.1: Technological Competency | ||
| CSC 154 | Healthcare Informatics | 3 |
| ILO 8.1a/12.1: Oral Communication/Collaborative Engagement | ||
| Choose course within ILO | 3 | |
| Distinct Discipline Core Courses | ||
| Students must complete 1 course in each of the following 4 ILOs. Each course must be from a different discipline. (A "discipline" is represented by the 3- or 4-letter prefix attached to each course.) | ||
| ILO 4.1: Critical Analysis and Reasoning | ||
| SOC 150 | Principles of Sociology | 3 |
| or SOC 151 | Social Problems and Social Policy | |
| ILO 9.1: Creative and Artistic Expression | ||
| Choose course within ILO | 3 | |
| ILO 10.1: Ethical Understanding and Reasoning | ||
| Choose course within ILO | 3 | |
| ILO 11.1: Cultural and Global Awareness and Sensitivity | ||
| SPN 103 | Spanish For Nursing and Health Sciences I (or any other global language) | 3 |
| Universal Required Modules | ||
| Students must complete the following 2 non-credit modules. 2 | ||
| ILO 7.1a | ||
| Health Literacy Module | ||
| ILO 7.1b | ||
| Financial Literacy Module | ||
| Major Requirements | ||
| Level Two | ||
| Students must complete 1 course/learning experience in each of the 4 commitments. | ||
| ILO 2.2: Broader Identity (Capstone Course/Experience) | ||
| COSD 501 | Introduction to Clinical Practicum (ILO 2.2) | 3 |
| Select one ILO from 3.2a, 3.2b, 4.2, 5.2, 6.2, 7.2a, or 7.2b: Expanded Literacies | ||
| COSD 413 | Professional Issues in Speech-Language Pathology (ILO 4.2) | 3 |
| ILO 8.2b: Effective Expression (Writing-Intensive Course) | ||
| COSD 314 | Diagnostic Procedures in Speech-Language Pathology (ILO 8.2b) | 3 |
| Select one ILO from 10.2, 11.2, or 12.2: Active Responsibility | ||
| COSD 409 | Multicultural Perspectives on Communication Disorders (ILO 11.2) | 3 |
| All Other Required Courses | ||
| COSD 100 | Introduction to Language and Communication | 3 |
| COSD 102 | Introduction to Communication Disorders | 3 |
| COSD 200 | Phonetics | 3 |
| COSD 202 | Anatomy and Physiology of the Speech and Hearing Mechanisms | 3 |
| COSD 203 | Speech and Language Development | 3 |
| COSD 211 | Acoustic Bases of Speech and Hearing | 3 |
| COSD 304 | Introduction to Audiology | 3 |
| COSD 306 | Neurological Bases of Communication and Behavior | 3 |
| COSD 308 | Clinical Procedures in Speech-Language Pathology | 3 |
| COSD 314 | Diagnostic Procedures in Speech-Language Pathology | 3 |
| COSD 409 | Multicultural Perspectives on Communication Disorders | 3 |
| COSD 413 | Professional Issues in Speech-Language Pathology | 3 |
| COSD 501 | Introduction to Clinical Practicum | 3 |
| COSD 502 | Introduction to Aural Habilitation/Rehabilitation | 3 |
| COSD 503 | Speech Sound Disorders | 3 |
| COSD 511 | Stuttering and Other Fluency Disorders | 3 |
| COSD 512 | Language Disorders in Young Children | 3 |
| COSD 513 | Acquired Language Disorders | 3 |
| COSD 514 | Language Learning Disabilities in School-Age Children and Adolescents | 3 |
| COSD 515 | Voice Disorders | 3 |
| COSD 516 | Clinical Practicum and Procedures | 3 |
| COSD 518 | Research Design in Communication Disorders | 3 |
| COSD 520 | Dysphagia: Diagnosis and Treatment of Swallowing Disorders | 3 |
| COSD 521 | Advanced School Practicum in Speech-Language Pathology | 3 |
| COSD 527 | Motor Speech Disorders | 3 |
| COSD 528 | Counseling Seminar in Communication Disorders | 3 |
| COSD 614 | Clinical Diagnostics in Speech-Language Pathology | 3 |
| COSD 616 | Advanced Clinical Practicum and Case Study | 3 |
| COSD 619 | Medical Speech-Language Pathology | 3 |
| COSD 635 | Integrative Capstone in Communication Disorders | 3 |
| COSD Grad SLP Elective | 3 | |
| COSD Grad SLP Elective | 3 | |
| Supporting Courses | ||
| Select one of the following: | 3 | |
| Special Topics | ||
| Chemistry of The Life Sciences and Laboratory | ||
| PSY 155 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 |
| Free Electives | ||
| In addition to the requirements listed above, students must take enough courses to the fulfill graduation credit requirements for their School and major. | ||
| Total Credits | 151 | |
- 1
NOTE. The following students use Level 2 Capstone Experience in Major instead of FYS 130 First-Year Academic Seminar: Honors, BUSCA, Core-to-Core, Transfer, and Non-Traditional/Evening.
- 2
The Modules are not required for Transfer Students, Core-to-Core Students, or BUSCA Students. BUSCA students are required to take modules if/when they pursue a bachelor’s degree.
Recommended Course Sequence
| First Year | Credits | |
|---|---|---|
| First Semester | ||
| ENG 110 | College Writing I: Persuasion (ILO 8b) | 3 |
| SPN 103 | Spanish For Nursing and Health Sciences I (ILO 11) | 3 |
| COSD 100 | Introduction to Language and Communication | 3 |
| FYS (ILO 1) | 3 | |
| BIO 161 or BIO 158 |
Anatomy and Physiology (Core3a) or Life Science: A Human Approach |
4 |
| Credits | 16 | |
| Second Semester | ||
| COSD 102 | Introduction to Communication Disorders | 3 |
| Select one of the following: | 3 | |
| Spanish For Nursing and Health Sciences II | ||
Elective |
||
| REL 100 | Religion Matters (ILO 2) | 3 |
| PHY 270 or CHM 161 |
Special Topics or Chemistry of The Life Sciences |
3 |
| Any ILO 8/12 | 3 | |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Second Year | ||
| First Semester | ||
| COSD 200 | Phonetics | 3 |
| SOC 150 or SOC 151 |
Principles of Sociology (ILO 4) or Social Problems and Social Policy |
3 |
| ENG 210 | College Writing II: Research (ILO 5) | 3 |
| COSD 202 | Anatomy and Physiology of the Speech and Hearing Mechanisms | 3 |
| Any ILO 9 | 3 | |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Second Semester | ||
| COSD 203 | Speech and Language Development | 3 |
| Any ILO 10 | 3 | |
| PSY 155 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 |
| HSC 217 | Statistics for Health Science Profs (ILO 3b) | 3 |
| COSD 211 | Acoustic Bases of Speech and Hearing | 3 |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Third Year | ||
| First Semester | ||
| CSC 154 | Healthcare Informatics (ILO 6) | 3 |
| COSD 304 | Introduction to Audiology | 3 |
| COSD 306 | Neurological Bases of Communication and Behavior | 3 |
| Elective | 3 | |
| Elective | 3 | |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Second Semester | ||
| COSD 308 | Clinical Procedures in Speech-Language Pathology | 3 |
| COSD 314 | Diagnostic Procedures in Speech-Language Pathology | 3 |
| Elective | 3 | |
| Elective | 3 | |
| Elective | 3 | |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| First Semester | ||
| COSD 409 | Multicultural Perspectives on Communication Disorders | 3 |
| COSD 413 | Professional Issues in Speech-Language Pathology | 3 |
| COSD 501 | Introduction to Clinical Practicum | 3 |
| COSD 503 | Speech Sound Disorders | 3 |
| COSD 512 | Language Disorders in Young Children | 3 |
| COSD 518 | Research Design in Communication Disorders | 3 |
| Credits | 18 | |
| Second Semester | ||
| COSD 513 | Acquired Language Disorders | 3 |
| COSD 515 | Voice Disorders | 3 |
| COSD 516 | Clinical Practicum and Procedures | 3 |
| COSD 520 | Dysphagia: Diagnosis and Treatment of Swallowing Disorders | 3 |
| COSD Grad Elective (opt) | 0-3 | |
| Credits | 12-15 | |
| Fifth Year | ||
| Summer | ||
| COSD 614 | Clinical Diagnostics in Speech-Language Pathology | 3 |
| COSD 619 | Medical Speech-Language Pathology | 3 |
| COSD Grad Elective (opt) | 0-3 | |
| COSD Grad Elective (opt) | 0-3 | |
| Credits | 6-12 | |
| First Semester | ||
| COSD 514 | Language Learning Disabilities in School-Age Children and Adolescents | 3 |
| COSD 527 | Motor Speech Disorders | 3 |
| COSD 616 or COSD 521 |
Advanced Clinical Practicum and Case Study or Advanced School Practicum in Speech-Language Pathology |
3 |
| COSD 528 | Counseling Seminar in Communication Disorders | 3 |
| COSD Elective (opt) | 0-3 | |
| Credits | 12-15 | |
| Second Semester | ||
| COSD 502 | Introduction to Aural Habilitation/Rehabilitation | 3 |
| COSD 511 | Stuttering and Other Fluency Disorders | 3 |
| COSD 635 | Integrative Capstone in Communication Disorders | 3 |
| COSD 616 or COSD 521 |
Advanced Clinical Practicum and Case Study or Advanced School Practicum in Speech-Language Pathology |
3 |
| COSD Elective (opt) | 0-3 | |
| All CSD Five-Year students must take 2 graduate electives | ||
| Credits | 12-15 | |
| Total Credits | 151-166 | |
Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) and Spanish Double Major
The Communication Sciences and Disorders/Spanish double major aims to provide its students with the pre-clinical, linguistic, and cultural foundations, which in addition to a master’s degree in speech-language pathology, are necessary to treat and work with patients that are bilingual English/Spanish, as well as those that are Spanish speakers with limited English proficiency. Those wishing to become CSD/Spanish double majors must have their Spanish assessed by a Language faculty member to begin their studies at the appropriate level. After placement, students will follow the carefully designed course sequence prepared by the CSD and Languages departments.
Requirements
Fulfill the requirements of the CSD major, as outlined by the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, and 10 Spanish courses starting at the intermediate level or higher.
Minimum Requirements for Spanish
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| SPN 205 & SPN 206 | Intermediate Spanish For Nursing and Health Sciences I and Intermediate Spanish For Nursing and Health Sciences II 1 | 6 |
| SPN 301 & SPN 302 | Conversation and Composition I and Conversation and Composition II 2 | 6 |
| SPN 420 | Spanish For Speech-Language Pathologists | 3 |
| SPN 421 | Bilingualism in Spanish-English Speakers: Development and Disorder | 3 |
| SPN 422 | Introduction to Spanish Phonetics and Phonology | 3 |
| SPN 423 | Introduction to Spanish Dialectology | 3 |
| One 300/400 level Literature or Culture Course on Spain | 3 | |
| Select one of the following: | 3 | |
One 300/400 level Literature or Culture Course on Latin America | ||
| Commercial Spanish | ||
| Total Credits | 30 | |
- 1
Students placing above the intermediate level will not take SPN 205 Intermediate Spanish For Nursing and Health Sciences I or SPN 206 Intermediate Spanish For Nursing and Health Sciences II. Instead of these intermediate courses, students will take additional 300/400 level Spanish courses to fulfill their requirements.
- 2
Heritage speakers of Spanish will take SPN 203 Spanish For Heritage Speakers and SPN 204 Spanish For Heritage Speakers II, Spanish for Heritage Speakers I and II, instead of SPN 301 Conversation and Composition I and SPN 302 Conversation and Composition II.
Course Descriptions
Communication Sciences and Disorders
COSD 100 Introduction to Language and Communication
This course presents an introduction to linguistics, which is the study of human language and communication. Each major branch of linguistics is surveyed with an emphasis on the structure, content, and use of English. This course also explores language variation and the relationship between language and culture, language and the brain, and how children develop language. Students practice techniques for linguistic analysis, and clinical applications to the fields of speech-language pathology and psychology are discussed. This class is cross-listed with PSY 242.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Fall
How Offered: Face to Face
COSD 102 Introduction to Communication Disorders
This course is an introductory survey of normal processes and disorders of speech, language, and hearing. The behavioral and social consequences of communication disorders in people throughout the life span are presented. Different categories, symptoms, and causes of communication disorders are examined. The roles of the speech-language pathologist and audiologist in the evaluation and treatment of communication disorders are discussed. Preferred American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) practice patterns pertaining to a variety of professional situations are surveyed.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Spring
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD majors and minors
COSD 200 Phonetics
This course involves the exploration and study of American English pronunciation through the application of the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). Students will learn the transcription of English phonemes and allophones and be introduced to distinctive feature analysis, phonological rules, prosodic features, and dynamics of articulation, American dialectical variants, and developmental phonology.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Fall
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD majors and minors
COSD 201 Introduction to Sign Language
This course is designed for students with no previous knowledge of American Sign Language (ASL). Students will acquire basic ASL skills needed to communicate in a wide variety of situations.
Number of Credits: 3
COSD 202 Anatomy and Physiology of the Speech and Hearing Mechanisms
This course is designed to give students a basic understanding of the structural organization (anatomy), function (physiology), and neural control for speech production, hearing, and swallowing. The course will emphasize both normal and disordered systems.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Fall
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD majors and minors
Prerequisites: BIO 158 or BIO 210 or BIO 161 or permission of instructor
COSD 203 Speech and Language Development
This course explores typical language development from birth through adolescence. The social, biological, perceptual, and cognitive bases of language are presented, and various theories of language development are compared. Students gain knowledge of the typical sequence of development in the areas of phonology, semantics, morphology, syntax, and pragmatics through language sample analysis and video observation. Other topics include bilingual language acquisition, cultural and linguistic variation, and the relationship between oral language development and literacy. Processes of typical language development are discussed as a guide for the evaluation and treatment of children with developmental language disorders. This course is cross-listed with PSY 342.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Spring
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD majors and minors
Prerequisites: COSD 100 or permission of instructor
COSD 211 Acoustic Bases of Speech and Hearing
This course explores the physical characteristics of speech sounds and the psychophysical processes involved in speech production, hearing, and speech perception. This course introduces the physical properties of sound waves, resonance, the source-filter theory, spectrogram reading, decibels, and speech perception. Technological applications with practical implications are explored.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Spring
Restrictions: CSD majors and minors
Prerequisites: COSD 200 or permission of instructor
COSD 304 Introduction to Audiology
This course is a survey of the field of audiology, including the measurement of hearing and the nature and causes of hearing loss in infants, children, and adults. Students are introduced to strategies used by audiologists and physicians in managing hearing loss.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Fall
Restrictions: CSD majors and minors
COSD 306 Neurological Bases of Communication and Behavior
This course is an examination of the structure (neuroanatomy), organization (neurophysiology), and functions of the central and peripheral nervous systems as they relate to speech, language, hearing, and cognition. Behavioral manifestations of normal and abnormal brain functioning are contrasted.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Fall
Restrictions: CSD majors and minors
Prerequisites: COSD 202 or permission of instructor
COSD 308 Clinical Procedures in Speech-Language Pathology
This course introduces students in communication sciences and disorders to the clinical and supervisory process. Basic information regarding certification, professional standards, and ethics are discussed. Goal setting, lesson planning, methods of observing, describing and recording behavior, informal assessment and related topics are also discussed. Behavioral observation and technology in the measurement and modification of speaker/listener attributes are examined. Students develop clinical writing skills appropriate to various speech-language pathology settings. This course is an introduction to the clinical process and requires observation of a wide variety of clinical cases.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Spring
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: For CSD majors and minors
Prerequisites: COSD 102, COSD 200, COSD 203, or permission of instructor
COSD 314 Diagnostic Procedures in Speech-Language Pathology
This course provides students majoring in Communication Sciences and Disorders with a framework for understanding the diagnostic process in speech-language pathology. Principles and procedures common to the diagnosis of most communication and swallowing disorders are presented. Students will gain practice obtaining and interpreting assessment information including case history interviews, standardized testing, and informal assessments. Professional report writing and the presentation of findings are emphasized. Culturally and linguistically responsive assessment practices are presented. The ASHA Code of Ethics in relation to assessment procedures is discussed.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Spring
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD majors and minors
Prerequisites: COSD 102, COSD 200, COSD 203, or permission of instructor
COSD 409 Multicultural Perspectives on Communication Disorders
This course presents students with topics related to cross-linguistic and cross-cultural differences as they affect clinicians in the field of communication sciences and disorders. Topics include important sociolinguistic concepts, cross-cultural communication, assessment alternatives, and intervention strategies. Non-biased diagnosis and treatment of speech, language, hearing, fluency, and voice disorders across different cultural and linguistic groups are discussed.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Fall
Restrictions: CSD majors and minors
Prerequisites: COSD 102, COSD 200 or permission of instructor
COSD 413 Professional Issues in Speech-Language Pathology
This course examines the organization, administration, and implementation of speech and language pathology services in varied settings. These settings include public and private schools; special schools; clinics; rehabilitation hospitals and agencies; acute-care hospitals; and private practices. The course emphasizes the professional role of the SLP and discusses the ethical, legal, and professional standards of practice. The impact of external pressures, e.g., fiscal and efficacy issues, on the practice of speech-language pathology is also addressed. Multicultural variables impacting the practice of speech-language pathology from the legal and ethical perspectives are discussed.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Fall
How Offered: Face to Face
Prerequisites: COSD 308 or permission of instructor
COSD 444 Independent Research
Number of Credits: 3
COSD 471 Special Topics
Number of Credits: 3
COSD 501 Introduction to Clinical Practicum
This course is the first supervised clinical speech-language pathology experience in the graduate degree program. Students enrolled in this course complete requirements through a clinical assignment in the La Salle University Speech-Language-Hearing Community Clinics (LSU-SLHCC). Students are supervised by an ASHA certified speech-language pathologist. In this unique practicum setting, student clinicians apply theoretical knowledge, develop clinical management skills, develop self-analysis and evaluation abilities, and become familiar with professional issues in the discipline. Emphasis is placed on selection and administration of diagnostic instruments. Students write reports and daily progress notes and conduct family/patient counseling. Students may have the opportunity to communicate with other health care and educational professionals as needed.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Fall
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD graduate students and CSD five-year seniors
COSD 502 Introduction to Aural Habilitation/Rehabilitation
This course examines principles and strategies in the management of hearing status in children and adults. Development and maintenance of communication through speech reading, auditory training, and the use of technology in aural habilitation/rehabilitation are investigated.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Spring
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD graduate students
COSD 503 Speech Sound Disorders
This course reviews the development of speech sound production and speech perception skills in children. Factors affecting speech sound development are discussed. Prominent theories of phonology are reviewed and critiqued and assessment and modification of atypical articulatory patterns are emphasized. The differential diagnosis of speech sound disorders is explored. Case studies are used to illustrate methodologies and to plan remediation.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Fall
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD graduate students and CSD five-year seniors
COSD 511 Stuttering and Other Fluency Disorders
This course provides information about typical fluency as well as the history, theories, development, nature, and symptomatology of stuttering and other fluency disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. Cluttering, neurogenic, and psychogenic fluency disorders and their evaluation and management are discussed. Controversies regarding theoretical explanations about the causes and the nature of stuttering that influence management strategies are discussed. Stuttering modification, fluency shaping, and holistic therapeutic approaches are reviewed, and video case studies are used to illustrate the approaches. Students are afforded the opportunity to evaluate and create a treatment plan for an adult who stutters as part of the final project for the course.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Spring
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD graduate students
COSD 512 Language Disorders in Young Children
This course explores the nature and treatment of language disorders in young children, from birth to age six. Theoretical approaches are combined with hands-on application to provide a comprehensive overview of assessment and intervention across key language domains and developmental stages. Students will engage in real world case studies, analysis of current research, diagnostic reasoning, and the development of evidence-based intervention plans for home, school, and community settings. Diagnostic information including language sampling, stages of emergent literacy, and stages of play are discussed in relation to early intervention.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Fall
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD graduate students and CSD five-year seniors
COSD 513 Acquired Language Disorders
This course provides an overview of acquired language disorders. Neuropathology, symptomatology, and speech-language rehabilitation of individuals with aphasia, traumatic brain injury, right-hemisphere disorders, dementia, and related cognitive-communication disorders are examined. Theoretical models in the evaluation and treatment of acquired language disorders are discussed and contrasted.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Spring
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD graduate students and CSD five-year seniors
COSD 514 Language Learning Disabilities in School-Age Children and Adolescents
This course focuses on language learning disabilities and differences in school-age children and adolescents and the cognitive/linguistic processes involved in the classroom performance of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. It explores the role of the speech-language pathologist in the evaluation and treatment of students with language and literacy needs within the academic curriculum.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Fall
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD graduate students
Prerequisites: COSD 512 or permission of instructor
COSD 515 Voice Disorders
This course investigates the etiology, symptomatology, development, diagnosis, intervention, and prevention of voice disorders in children and adults. Models of current treatment strategies are discussed.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Spring
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD graduate students
COSD 516 Clinical Practicum and Procedures
This clinical practicum course provides observation and supervised clinical experience focusing on the evaluation and treatment of communication disorders, counseling of clients and families, development of treatment plans, and writing of evaluation and progress reports. Emphasis is placed on increasing diagnostic and therapeutic skills with children and adults with communication disorders. COSD 516 takes place in an affiliated clinic, rehabilitation facility, school, or other appropriate setting under the supervision of an ASHA certified speech-language pathologist. Students meet with the University Clinical Instructor to reflect on and discuss procedures within the clinical experience.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Spring
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD graduate students and CSD five-year seniors
Prerequisites: COSD 503 and COSD 512 and permission of Program Director
COSD 518 Research Design in Communication Disorders
This course explores the relationships among research, theory, and practice. Critique of published research focuses students on literature review and purpose methods and findings of studies with applicability of research to clinical situations. Treatment and outcome variables, sampling, measurement theory, qualitative and quantitative analyses, and the use of technology in data analysis are emphasized.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Fall
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD graduate students and CSD five-year seniors
Prerequisites: A statistics course such as HSC 217 or equivalent or permission of instructor
COSD 520 Dysphagia: Diagnosis and Treatment of Swallowing Disorders
This course examines anatomy and physiology of normal swallowing and respiration and the anatomic and physiologic disturbances affecting swallowing in infants, children, and adults. Radiographic and bedside diagnostic and treatment procedures are presented. Indications and methods for non-oral and modified oral feeding are discussed.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Spring
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD graduate students and CSD five-year seniors
COSD 521 Advanced School Practicum in Speech-Language Pathology
Candidates for the Educational Specialist I School Speech & Language Pathologist PK-12 or the Teacher Instructional Certificate I for Speech and Language Impaired PK-12 engage in an advance school practicum experience in public or private schools in the greater Philadelphia area under the supervision of a school-based ASHA certified speech-language pathologist and a University Supervisor. Students investigate how speech and language affects the child's achievement and functioning in the school environment and assess the child's communication ability in relation to academic achievement with consideration of age-appropriate curriculum in the classroom. Students learn Federal and State special education regulations as they relate to developing and modifying the Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) and other legal documents. They also participate in parent-teacher conferences pertaining to the child's communication and education, organize a caseload, and provide appropriate assessment and intervention in areas including speech, language, voice and fluency for children who may range in grade from preschool through high school.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Fall, Spring
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD graduate students
Prerequisites: COSD 516 and permission of the Graduate Program Director
COSD 526 Alternative and Augmentative Communication
Augmentative and alternative communication course will discuss evidence-based assessment and intervention for complex communicators across the lifespan. The course will examine the need for AAC in both developmental disabilities and acquired disabilities. The intent of this course is to provide graduate level students with an understanding of terminology, techniques, assessment principles, research, and therapeutic procedures for persons with severe communication disorders. The course will provide exploration of access, symbols, systems, communication, and language.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Summer
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD graduate students
Prerequisites: COSD 516
COSD 527 Motor Speech Disorders
This course provides an overview of the neurological disorders that affect speech production. Normal speech production processes are reviewed from a neurophysiological perspective. All 7 types of dysarthria are discussed and video examples of patients exhibiting those types are used as part of the instructional materials. Procedures for assessing motor speech disorders associated with neuromotor impairments are investigated. Neuropathology, symptomatology, and speech-language habilitation/rehabilitation of individuals with apraxia and/or dysarthria are discussed.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Fall
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD graduate students
COSD 528 Counseling Seminar in Communication Disorders
This course provides an overview of counseling in communication disorders and in the helping professions. Components of the therapeutic relationship including the interpersonal nature of communication, attending to clients, clinical interviewing, and recognizing communication patterns are surveyed. Counseling theories, goal setting, and strategic interventions with clients and their families are critiqued. This course includes active learning strategies and case study analysis.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Fall
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD graduate students
COSD 530 Special Topics in Communication Disorders
Current scientific and professional problems and issues in communication disorders are investigated. Students may re-enroll for a maximum of 12 credits.
Number of Credits: 3
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD graduate students
Prerequisites: Permission of instructor
COSD 537 Geriatric Communication Disorders
Speech, hearing, language, and cognitive problems associated with normal aging and/or various pathological conditions are explored. The course emphasizes evaluation and intervention strategies.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Summer
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD graduate students
COSD 614 Clinical Diagnostics in Speech-Language Pathology
This course provides advanced knowledge and skills in assessment principles, processes, and applied practice. Through a case-based, client-centered approach, students apply content knowledge to clinical cases to improve decision-making across assessments of speech sounds, language, voice, fluency, swallowing, and neurologically based disorders. Students interact with live and simulated clients and other professionals to measure, analyze, and integrate information for diagnosis and clinical reporting. Emphasis is placed on selection, administration, and interpretation of standardized assessments, informal measures, and observational data.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Summer
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD graduate students
COSD 616 Advanced Clinical Practicum and Case Study
This course continues the supervised clinical speech-language pathology experience of COSD 516 necessary to fulfill clinical practicum requirements. Students enrolled in this course will complete requirements in an affiliated hospital, clinic, rehabilitation facility, school, or other appropriate setting treating patients/clients 18 years or older. Students are supervised by an ASHA certified speech-language pathologist. Emphasis is placed on the interpretation and application of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures with individuals with a variety of communication disorders. Students prepare a detailed case study using a patient from their current clinical site and are required to incorporate the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) and the ICF Model to capture the lived experiences of their patient. Feedback and reflection regarding clinical decision-making are emphasized.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Fall, Spring
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD graduate students
Prerequisites: COSD 516
COSD 618 Communication in Autism Spectrum and Related Disorders
This course provides an overview of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and the principles for speech-language pathologists in the diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of ASD and selective mutism (SM). Professional issues relating to assessment and treatment of children on the autism spectrum and selective mutism are discussed and applied to evaluation protocols, behavioral strategies, and treatment methodologies. This course also addresses current topics within the field, engaging students in debated issues. Augmentative-alternative communication (AAC) for children in need of non-vocal communication is addressed.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Summer, Spring
How Offered: Face to Face
COSD 619 Medical Speech-Language Pathology
This course introduces the graduate student in speech-language hearing science to medical speech pathology as it is practiced in the acute care setting. The student will be introduced to the six major service areas in the acute care setting that interface most commonly with Speech-Language Pathology Services. Those areas are: Neurology, Radiology, Trauma/Neurosurgery, ENT, Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU) and Medicine. The information necessary to interact with these services and treat their patients will be provided. Video presentations using the Acute Care Consultative Model is a basis for discussing disorder. An interprofessional expert panel is invited to take questions from the students regarding their interface with speech-language pathologists in the acute care setting.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Summer
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD Graduate Students
Prerequisites: COSD 513 and COSD 520 or permission of instructor
COSD 620 Pediatric Dysphagia
This course provides information about the anatomy and physiology of normal and disordered pediatric swallowing and explores its evaluation and treatment through a neurodevelopmental lens. Students will develop skills in the diagnosis and management of feeding and swallowing disorders across a range of pediatric clinical populations and settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, early intervention programs, schools, and in-home services. Emphasis is placed on the speech-language pathologist’s role as a member of an interdisciplinary team. Problem-based and experiential learning methods are used to address the complex medical, developmental, and social factors influencing pediatric dysphagia.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Summer
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD Graduate Student
Prerequisites: COSD 520 or permission of the instructor
COSD 622 Applied Instrumentation in Speech-Language Pathology
This course focuses on the pros and cons of instrumentation in Speech Language Pathology (SLP). Current instrumentation commonly used in the evaluation and treatment of swallowing, voice, and speech disorders will be closely reviewed. A comprehensive review of clinical and theoretical research will be conducted to comprehend the clinical benefits and disadvantages of instrumentations. The instruments being discussed will be available for hands on experience to further enhance comprehension of their applications. The following instruments will be included: Electrical Stimulators (VitalStim), Surface Electromyography (sEMG), Modified Barium Swallow Study (MBS), Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES), Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing and Sensory Testing (FEESST), Computer Speech Lab (CSL), and Videostroboscopy. Emphasis will be given to the instrumentation's purpose, application, risk and management, disinfection, and proper maintenance.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Spring
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD Graduate Students
Prerequisites: COSD 520 or permission of the instructor
COSD 635 Integrative Capstone in Communication Disorders
This seminar course is designed as a comprehensive overview, integration, and analysis of the field of Speech-Language Pathology. This course provides a formative and summative evaluation of the students' work. Formatively, students will develop a portfolio that exemplifies their progress throughout the academic program. Summatively, the course provides students with an opportunity to review clinical research across the discipline and gain new insights into the field. Students formally present information from scholarly texts in preparation for professional certification and licensure.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Spring
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD Graduate Students
Prerequisites: COSD 514, COSD 515, COSD 518, COSD 527, and COSD 616 or COSD 521 and permission of Program Director
COSD 640 Thesis Research in Communication Disorders
This course is an opportunity to pursue descriptive and/or experimental research. This thesis option will result in approved, original, scholarly research within the field of communication disorders under the supervision of a member of the faculty to produce an acceptable thesis. Students present their thesis orally to faculty and students in lieu of the master's comprehensive examination. Students may re-register for this course until completion of thesis.
Number of Credits: 3
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD Graduate Students. Permission of faculty member and program director
Prerequisites: COSD 518
COSD 670 Management of Cognitive-Communication Disorders
This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the cognitive-communication disorders associated with traumatic brain injury (TBI), right-hemisphere brain damage (RHBD), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and dementia. Students will learn clinical methods for differential diagnosis and treatment provision. Topics to be covered include neuropathology of TBI, RHBD, and neurodegenerative diseases; variables of recovery; assessment and treatment of individuals with cognitive-communication disorders; and patient and family education.
Number of Credits: 3
When Offered: Summer
How Offered: Face to Face
Restrictions: CSD graduate students
Program Contact Information
Ryan S. Husak, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, Associate Professor and Chair
husak@lasalle.edu
St. Benilde Tower 2234
(215) 951-1443
Dana Bitetti, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, Associate Professor and Graduate Program Director
2216 St. Benilde Tower
(215) 951-1609