Additional Information
The BS degree prepares students for graduate study in communication disorders disciplines. Students study the normal processes associated with understanding and producing speech and language. These include anatomy, physiology, and neurology. Students also learn about normal development of speech and language in children, and they are introduced to disorders and clinical methods. Courses in related areas, such as anatomy, psychology, child development, statistics, and linguistics are also part of the program. Students obtain initial clinical experiences through observing clinical practice in the UW Speech & Hearing Clinic as part of coursework.
The B.S. degree is considered pre-professional preparation for entrance into a graduate program in speech-language pathology, audiology, or related fields. A clinical graduate degree is required in order to become a speech-language pathologist or an audiologist. The B.S. degree at UW is not designed to meet requirements to become a speech-language pathology assistant (SLP-A), additional practicum and some coursework at another institution would be required to become an SLP-A. For information on SLP-A technical programs please visit ASHA.org.
Student Learning Objectives
The BS degree provides students with a broad-based foundation in the sciences and humanities, fundamental knowledge of human communication, communication development, and the nature of communication disorders across the lifespan. Specific learning objectives can be found on the BS program website. http://www.uwyo.edu/comdis/undergraduate/bachelors-of-speech-language-and-hearing-science.html
Criminal Background Check
Eligibility for the B.S. degree is contingent upon passing a criminal background check. Usually during the senior year, each student will be required to obtain, pay for, and pass a criminal background check as part of enrollment in advanced courses. These background checks are required in order to participate in any aspect of the UW Speech & Hearing Clinic. The results of the background check may impact a student’s ability to complete the required coursework and obtain the degree. Please see the College of Health Sciences website for the policy and procedures document.
National Student Speech Language Hearing Association
Students and can join the UW chapter of the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association (NSSLHA) to become a part of a community of students interested in communication sciences and disorders. Objectives are to promote and recognize scholastic achievement and to support clinical, research, and service endeavors.