There are many unanswered questions in the field of Communication Sciences and Disorders. Our graduates seek to answer them. If you’re looking for a stimulating intellectual environment where the ability to conduct research is considered an essential skill, this program may be for you.
A nationwide shortage of individuals with Ph.D.s in the communication sciences and disorders means that graduates are in high demand for employment in leadership positions in health facilities, universities, and research centers. In addition to advanced coursework related to communication disorders, students complete requirements in statistics, research design, hearing or speech sciences, a teaching/supervising internship, and a dissertation.
The Ph.D. program is individualized to the specific interests of the student while assuring a rigorous educational experience appropriate to the research training and advanced knowledge characteristics of the degree. Students may be admitted to the Ph.D. program at various stages, including post-master's, post-baccalaureate, and post-Au.D., depending upon the individual's career goals.
Some students may wish to pursue clinical qualifications in either audiology or speech-language pathology while concurrently undertaking their Ph.D. studies. All admitted students will undertake an individually-designed program emphasizing research tools, research activities, and in-depth exposure to a major area of interest supported by a study in a minor area.