Speech and Hearing Science (Auditory and Language Neuroscience), PhD

Program Overview

The PhD program in Speech and Hearing Science with a concentration in Auditory and Language Neuroscience provides students with a deep understanding of the neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, and neuropsychology of auditory and language processing. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in research and academia, making significant contributions to the understanding of auditory and language neuroscience. The program emphasizes hands-on experience, interdisciplinary collaboration, and professional development, equipping graduates with the skills and knowledge to conduct independent research and advance the field.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Program Description:

The PhD program in Speech and Hearing Science (SHS) with a concentration in Auditory and Language Neuroscience (ALN) provides students with a robust foundation in basic and applied neuroscience, enabling them to conduct impactful research related to healthy hearing and language abilities, and explore the neural bases of communication disorders.

Program Objectives:

• Develop a deep understanding of the neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, and neuropsychology of auditory and language processing.
• Gain expertise in advanced research methods, including neuroimaging, electrophysiology, and behavioral testing.
• Conduct original research to contribute to the understanding of healthy communication and the underlying mechanisms of communication disorders.
• Faculty expertise: Faculty members come from diverse backgrounds like engineering, neuroscience, psychology, speech-language pathology, and auditory neural prosthetics, offering a unique and interdisciplinary learning experience.
• Strong research collaborations: The program benefits from strong research and clinical partnerships with renowned institutions like Barrow Neurological Institute, Mayo Clinic, and Banner Alzheimer's Institute, and internal collaborations with colleges like the College of Health Solutions, School of Life Sciences, Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, the Biodesign Institute, and the Department of Psychology.

Outline:

Program Structure:

• The program requires completion of 84 credit hours.
• Students complete coursework in core areas, ALN concentration, research methods and statistics, electives or additional research, and professional seminars.
• The program culminates with a dissertation, requiring students to conduct original research and defend their findings.

Program Content:

• Core Courses: SHS 701 Scientific Writing and Presentation in Communication Sciences and Disorders I & II, covering scientific writing, research methods, and presentation skills.
• ALN Concentration: Courses focus on the molecular, structural, and anatomical aspects of auditory and language neuroscience, covering topics like neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, psycholinguistics, language development, and neuropathology of communication disorders.
• Research Methods and Statistics: Students acquire advanced research skills, including experimental design, data analysis, and statistical methods.
• Electives: Students can choose electives from a variety of areas related to speech and hearing science, neuroscience, psychology, and linguistics.
• Dissertation: Students conduct original research under the guidance of a faculty mentor and defend their dissertation publicly.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

• Coursework: Evaluation includes exams, assignments, presentations, and participation.
• Preliminary Exam: A research project in the field of auditory or language neuroscience is assessed for its scientific rigor and contribution to the field.
• Comprehensive Exams: Written and oral exams evaluate students' knowledge and understanding of the field.
• Dissertation: The dissertation is defended in front of a faculty committee and assessed for its originality, scientific merit, and presentation quality.

Assessment Criteria:

• Depth of knowledge and understanding of auditory and language neuroscience.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Research design and methodology.
• Data analysis and interpretation.
• Communication skills (written and oral).
• Contribution to the field of knowledge.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

• The program utilizes diverse teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, discussions, small group work, laboratory experiments, and independent research projects.
• Students receive individualized mentorship from faculty members with expertise in auditory and language neuroscience.
• Collaborative learning is encouraged through group projects, presentations, and peer feedback.

Faculty:

• The program boasts a diverse faculty with expertise in various areas of auditory and language neuroscience, including neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, psycholinguistics, neurolinguistics, and neuroimaging.
• Faculty members are actively engaged in research, bringing their expertise and real-world experience into the classroom.

Unique Approaches:

• The program emphasizes hands-on experience through research projects, allowing students to apply their knowledge and develop research skills.
• Students have access to state-of-the-art research facilities and technology, including neuroimaging equipment, electrophysiology labs, and behavioral testing equipment.
• The program fosters a collaborative and interdisciplinary learning environment, encouraging students to interact with faculty and peers from various academic backgrounds.

Careers:

Career Opportunities:

• Graduates with a PhD in SHS-ALN are well-prepared for careers in research and academia.
• They can pursue positions as research scientists, professors, or post-doctoral fellows at universities, research institutions, and private companies.
• Additionally, they can work as clinical researchers, program officers in government agencies or non-profit organizations, or pursue careers in science communication and advocacy.

Career Outcomes:

• The program prepares graduates to become leaders in their field, making significant contributions to research and advancing the understanding of auditory and language neuroscience.
• Graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge to conduct independent research, secure funding, and publish their findings in high-impact journals.
• The program also emphasizes professional development, preparing graduates for successful careers in academia, research institutions, and other sectors.

Other:

Program Features:

• STEM-OPT Extension: The program is eligible for the STEM-OPT extension, allowing F-1 visa holders to extend their work authorization for up to 36 months after graduation, gaining valuable experience in the U.S.
• Collaboration Opportunities: The program encourages collaboration with faculty from various departments and colleges across ASU, fostering interdisciplinary research and learning.