Program Overview

Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences

The Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences offers various programs for students interested in pursuing a career in speech-language pathology and audiology.

Undergraduate Program

• The undergraduate program provides students with a foundation in speech, language, and hearing sciences.
• Students can declare an SLHS major and complete courses and requirements for graduation.

Post-Baccalaureate Program

• The post-baccalaureate program is designed for students who have already completed a bachelor's degree and want to pursue a career in speech-language pathology.
• The program includes courses, tuition, costs, and financial aid information.
• International students are also welcome to apply to the program.
• A frequently asked questions (FAQ) section is available for students who need more information.

Audiology Program

• The Audiology program offers a Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) degree.
• The program requires students to complete specific courses and meet admission requirements.
• Graduate FAQs are available for students who need more information about the program.

Speech-Language Pathology Program

• The Speech-Language Pathology program offers a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree.
• The program requires students to complete specific courses and meet admission requirements.
• Students can also check their application status and find answers to frequently asked questions.

Graduate Program Information

• The graduate program includes information on tuition, student achievement data, and professions.
• Students can find information on the Au.D. and SLP graduate program tuition.

Scholarships

• The department offers undergraduate and graduate scholarships to students.
• External scholarships are also available for students who need financial assistance.

Student Organizations

• The National Student Speech Language Hearing Association (NSSLHA) is a student organization that provides opportunities for students to get involved in the field.
• The Student Academy of Audiology (SAA) is another organization that offers students a chance to network and learn from professionals in the field.

SLP Program Requirements, Policies, and Procedures

CSD Speech-Language Pathology, M.A.

• The Speech-Language Pathology program requires students to complete academic and clinical requirements.
• Students must demonstrate satisfactory competence in diagnostic and clinical practica.
• The clinic director and internship coordinator guide students in planning their clinical experiences.

Clinical Component

• Students must complete clinical practicum courses, which may fall outside the regular university calendar.
• The clinic director and internship coordinator help students plan their clinical experiences to meet professional certification and licensure requirements.

Comprehensive Examination and Thesis/Non-Thesis Research Oral Defense

• Every SLP graduate student must complete a capstone requirement of either scholarly research or summative examination.
• Research is conducted under the advisement of a faculty member, and students must adhere to departmental and graduate school guidelines.
• The summative examination consists of multiple assignments and activities completed over the course of the program, culminating in a professional portfolio and presentation.

Professional Certification Requirements

• The department is accredited by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association's Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) in speech-language pathology.
• The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) requirements for Certification of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology stipulate the completion of 400 clock hours of supervised clinical experience.
• Students must also master specific knowledge and skills, which are assessed and tracked throughout the program.

Academic Integrity

• Academic integrity is an educational objective of Western Washington University.
• Academic dishonesty includes plagiarism and sharing unauthorized information regarding any coursework.

SLHS Policies for Dealing with Student Complaints, Concerns, and Grievances

• The department has established policies and procedures to guide students and faculty members in addressing complaints and concerns.
• Students are encouraged to meet with the faculty member or clinical educator involved in the situation to discuss the complaint and attempt to resolve the issue.
• If the issue cannot be resolved, the student can meet with the department chair or clinic director to discuss concerns related to the academic or clinic program.

Records Retention Policies

• The CSD department maintains records in accordance with Western standards.
• Students can find more information about record retention policies on the university's website.