Department of Communication Disorders

CDIS 1331. Introduction to Communication Disorders.

This course provides an overview of communication processes and communication disorders across the lifespan. Content includes the basic components of speech, language, hearing, voice, fluency, and cognitive communication, along with descriptions of developmental and acquired differences in these areas. Students are introduced to potential etiological factors, characteristics, and general approaches to assessment and intervention within the field of communication sciences and disorders. The course also examines the roles and responsibilities of speech-language pathologists and audiologists in educational, medical, and community settings. Emphasis is placed on foundational terminology and evidence-informed practice.

CDIS 3312. Neuroanatomy for Communication Disorders.

This course introduces students to the foundational organization and function of the central and peripheral nervous systems, with an emphasis on structures relevant to speech, language, and hearing. Students examine the major components of the brain, spinal cord, and cranial and spinal nerves, analyzing how neural pathways support sensory processing, motor control, and speech and hearing functions. Through guided inquiry, anatomical resources, and discussions, the course develops students’ ability to identify key neuroanatomical structures, evaluate their functional relationships, and apply this knowledge to understanding typical communication processes within the discipline of communication sciences and disorders.

CDIS 3325. Anatomy and Physiology of the Speech Production System.

This course examines the anatomical structures and physiological mechanisms underlying voice, speech production, and swallowing. Students analyze how coordinated respiratory, phonatory, articulatory, and oral–facial systems generate spoken communication and support swallowing across the lifespan. The course also explores selected disease-, injury-, and development-related conditions to evaluate how changes in biological structure and function affect communication and swallowing. Emphasis remains on typical organization and function, with disordered processes introduced to illustrate clinical relevance. Students apply scientific reasoning to understand how biological systems support communication and prepare for advanced coursework in speech-language pathology.

CDIS 3359. Phonetics.

This course is designed to introduce students to phonetics and the English sound system, with an emphasis on both theoretical knowledge and applied clinical relevance. Students will learn to analyze and describe speech sound production, including articulatory, acoustic, and perceptual aspects of speech. Students examine patterns of speech development and speech sound variations, including those associated with speech sound disorders, with attention to identifying and analyzing phonological processes in children. Dialectal differences among English speakers are also explored. Students focus on accurate phonetic transcription using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) to transcribe, analyze, and interpret speech samples for academic and clinical applications.

CDIS 3369. Hearing Science.

This course examines foundational concepts and terminology relevant to the study of hearing and balance processes, with an emphasis on sound perception. Topics include the physical properties of sound, the anatomy and physiology of auditory and vestibular systems, principles of psychoacoustics, and models of speech perception. The course analyzes typical auditory and balance system functioning to establish a conceptual framework for subsequent coursework addressing assessment and intervention of disorders within these systems. Instruction emphasizes scientific models, empirical research, and quantitative and qualitative analysis of sensory processes. Course content aligns with professional standards relevant to certification and licensure in speech-language pathology and audiology.

CDIS 3375. Speech Science.

This course applies scientific principles to the measurement and quantification of voice, speech, and swallowing. Students analyze the physical and physiological bases of respiration, phonation, articulation, resonance, and swallowing, emphasizing how these processes are observed, measured, and represented using quantitative methods. The course addresses the physics of sound, acoustical phonetics, source–filter theory, and speech perception to explain how biological signals are generated, transmitted, and interpreted. Students evaluate how acoustic representations such as waveforms and spectra reflect underlying structure and function in typical and altered conditions. Selected clinical examples illustrate how measurement-based analysis supports interpretation of communicative and swallowing processes in speech-language pathology.

CDIS 3377. Language Science.

This course examines the scientific study of language by analyzing its structure, processing, acquisition, and neurological organization. Students examine semantics, morphology, phonology, syntax, and pragmatics, as well as first and additional language acquisition. Empirical findings on language development, language disorders in children, and factors that may influence language learning will be evaluated. Emphasis is placed on a foundational understanding of language, including its core components of semantics, morphology, phonology, syntax, and pragmatics, mechanisms of production and comprehension, and the comparative evaluation of theoretical models and research methodologies in the language sciences.

CDIS 3462. Speech Sound Disorders.

This course analyzes theoretical and clinical approaches to the identification, description, assessment, and treatment of speech sound disorders in children. Students examine typical and atypical speech sound development and evaluate methods used to diagnose and treat articulation and phonological disorders. Students interpret clinical data and apply analytical frameworks to support diagnostic and intervention decisions. Emphasis is placed on the use of established terminology and evidence-based procedures in the study of speech sound disorders. A lab provides students with observational experience in assessment and treatment methods. Prerequisite: CDIS 3325 and CDIS 3359 both with grades of "C" or better.

CDIS 4101. Advanced Independent Study.

This course provides students with the opportunity to engage in an in‑depth examination of selected topics in Communication Disorders through individualized study. Students work independently under the guidance of a faculty member to investigate discipline‑specific questions, analyze relevant literature, and apply appropriate methodological approaches. Learning activities emphasize the development of skills in identifying researchable issues, synthesizing evidence, and articulating findings in formats suitable for academic and professional audiences. Enrollment requires prior departmental permission to ensure alignment between the student’s chosen topic and available faculty expertise.

CDIS 4201. Advanced Independent Study.

This course provides an in‑depth examination of advanced topics in Communication Disorders through individualized study with a faculty mentor. Students analyze selected subjects using scholarly readings, guided inquiry, and discipline‑specific methodologies. Emphasis is placed on developing independent research skills, evaluating current literature, and applying theoretical frameworks to areas of interest. The course is designed for students seeking deeper engagement with specialized content not covered in regular coursework. Enrollment is contingent upon prior departmental approval and the development of a mutually agreed‑upon study plan.

CDIS 4301. Advanced Independent Study.

This course examines selected advanced topics related to the assessment, diagnosis, and (re)habilitation of communication disorders. Content varies by offering and may address distinct disorder categories, populations, or assessment and intervention methodologies. Analytical evaluation of clinical models, research findings, and evidence-based practices relevant to communication sciences and disorders is emphasized. Instruction is structured to support the focused investigation of specific topics through guided readings and applied activities. The course may be repeated for credit when topic content differs across offerings.

CDIS 4317. Service Delivery and Professional Practice in Communication Disorders.

This course provides an analytical overview of clinical management practices in communication disorders within varied service delivery settings. Students examine techniques for sequencing goals and objectives, analyze clinical documentation and reporting standards, examine methods for assessing service effectiveness, and analyze considerations in ethical decision-making. Students also investigate interdisciplinary collaboration models and their implications for clinical practice across educational, medical, and community contexts. Through case analysis, applied coursework, and review of relevant professional literature, students develop analytical skills related to clinical management, service delivery systems, and evidence-informed decision-making processes in communication disorders. Prerequisite: CDIS 3462 and CDIS 4330 and [CDIS 4350 or CDIS 4466] all with grades of "C" or better.

CDIS 4330. Speech and Language Development.

This course explores speech and language acquisition in children through examination of theoretical and research-based perspectives. Students evaluate key concepts from linguistics, psycholinguistics, psychology, and communication sciences as they relate to developmental progression. Through lectures, review of empirical studies, and analysis of developmental data, the course investigates patterns of language growth across stages of childhood. Emphasis is placed on comparing models of acquisition and assessing research methodologies used in developmental study. Students develop a structured framework for analyzing and interpreting speech and language development.

CDIS 4335. Bilingual Speech Sound Disorders.

This course analyzes typical and atypical articulation and phonological development in bilingual, multilingual, and bidialectal children. Students examine theoretical models and research findings related to bilingual/multilingual speech sound development and evaluate assessment and intervention approaches used in clinical practice. Students interpret empirical studies and evaluate the strengths and limitations of research methods used in the study of bilingual/multilingual populations. Emphasis is placed on an analytical approach to speech sound development and clinical management in bilingual/multilingual contexts and includes analysis of factors that influence phonological acquisition in multiple linguistic contexts. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

CDIS 4340. Introduction to Augmentative and Alternative Communication Systems.

This course introduces the foundational concepts, terminology, and theoretical frameworks of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Students review non-oral communication systems, including low- and high-technology options, across medical, rehabilitation, and educational settings. Content includes analysis of basic assessment considerations, system features, and intervention planning principles for children and adults with complex communication needs. Instruction examines client-centered and contextual variables influencing AAC use and surveys professional standards relevant to speech-language pathology. Through guided case analysis and review of foundational literature, students develop introductory knowledge and skills in describing, comparing, and explaining AAC approaches. Prerequisite: CDIS 4330 with a grade of "C" or better.

CDIS 4344. Clinical Practicum in Communication Disorders.

This course is the lecture component of an undergraduate supervised clinical practicum in communication disorders. Enrollment is required during each semester in which students participate in supervised clinical experiences in a supporting role, as a clinical aide. Students are provided with structured discussion and examination of foundational principles, professional practices, and key competencies essential for measurably effective clinical service delivery in communication disorders. Lecture and practicum components support one another to provide an educational clinical experience that is both knowledge and skills based. Prerequisites: CDIS 1331 and CDIS 3359 and CDIS 4330 all with grades of "C" or better.

CDIS 4350. Survey of Neurogenic Communication Disorders.

This course explores the neurological foundations and clinical characteristics of acquired communication and swallowing disorders associated with brain injury. Students review core principles of neuroanatomy and neurophysiology as a foundation for understanding disorder classification and symptom presentation. Students are introduced to etiology, clinical presentation, and prognostic indicators of cognitive-communication-swallowing disorders resulting from neurological injury and provide an outline for appropriate assessment and intervention approaches used in contemporary practice. Focus areas include aphasia, motor speech disorders, right hemisphere syndrome, traumatic brain injury, dementia, and dysphagia. Prerequisite: CDIS 3312 with a grade of "C" or better.

CDIS 4370. Aural Rehabilitation.

This course provides an in-depth study of the principles, methods, and clinical applications of aural (re)habilitation for individuals with hearing loss across the lifespan. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based approaches to auditory training, speechreading, communication strategies, and the use of hearing assistive technologies including hearing aids and cochlear implants. Students will examine the psychosocial experiences of hearing loss, counseling techniques for individuals and families, and interdisciplinary service delivery models. Students will use case-based learning to develop skills for designing and implementing individualized aural rehabilitation plans. Prerequisite: CDIS 4420 with a grade of "C" or better.

CDIS 4371. An Introduction to Stuttering and Voice Disorders.

This course examines childhood-onset stuttering and voice disorders through an evidence-based and descriptive framework. Students investigate etiological explanations for stuttering, analyze assessment protocols, and evaluate factors that influence individualized therapy. The course also analyzes the biological bases of voice production, including laryngeal and respiratory anatomy and physiology. Students review classifications of voice disorders and their etiology, and investigate how clinical assessment tools are used to identify symptoms and contributing factors. Emphasis is placed on developing an analytical understanding of the factors that contribute to stuttering and voice outcomes across a range of clinical presentations.

CDIS 4420. Diagnostic Audiology.

This course is designed to relate anatomy and physiology of the auditory system and the science of acoustics to the study of normal and pathological auditory function. The accurate interpretation of audiometric results is a critical tool needed in the field of Communication Disorders. A basic understanding of auditory pathologies and how they relate to speech, language, and hearing abilities is essential for any individual pursuing a career in Communication Disorders. A laboratory experience in administration and interpretation of audiological tests is provided. The content of this class is required for certification and/or licensure in speech-language pathology or audiology. Prerequisite: CDIS 3369 with a grade of "C" or better.

CDIS 4466. Language Disorders.

This course analyzes theoretical and practical frameworks for the identification and assessment of language disorders in infants, children, and adolescents. Students examine clinical demonstrations to evaluate assessment procedures and patterns of disordered language. Using guided observation and detailed language sample analyses, students investigate relationships between observed behaviors and diagnostic criteria. Students evaluate approaches to remediation through comparison of current clinical methods. Students strengthen their ability to interpret evidence, assess methodological rigor, and apply analytical reasoning to language disorder identification and intervention. Prerequisite: CDIS 4330 with a grade of "C" or better.