Speech and Hearing Science (Translational Genetics of Communication Abilities), PhD
Program Overview
The Speech and Hearing Science (Translational Genetics of Communication Abilities) PhD program at Arizona State University combines molecular genetics and bioinformatics to investigate the genetic foundations of communication abilities. Students gain expertise in translational research, aiming to improve clinical outcomes for communication disorders. The program offers a flexible curriculum, allowing students to focus on basic science, clinical translation, or both. Graduates are prepared for careers as doctoral-level scientists, university professors, or research scientists in the private or public sector.
Program Outline
Degree Overview
Title:
Speech and Hearing Science (Translational Genetics of Communication Abilities), PhD
School/College:
College of Health Solutions
Location:
Tempe
Objectives:
- Investigate the genetic foundations of communication abilities.
- Understand communication abilities from typical processes to disorders. Students receive training in molecular genetics and bioinformatics, allowing them to investigate the interactions between genetic, brain-based, and behavioral traits. The program offers students the flexibility to focus primarily on basic science aspects, clinical translation, or both.
Key Focus Areas:
- Autism
- Communication Disorders
- Dyslexia
- Early Identification and Intervention
- Genetic Risk
- Genetics
- Language
- Management
- Molecular Biology
- Reading
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Genomics
- Hearing
- Speech
Outline
Program Length:
84 credit hours
Components:
- Required coursework (32 credit hours)
- Research (21 credit hours)
- Electives or additional research (28 credit hours)
- Professional seminars (9 credit hours)
- Dissertation (12 credit hours)
Required Courses:
- Concentration (12 credit hours): Focuses on issues related to translational genetics and is selected in collaboration with faculty.
- Research (21 credit hours): Includes 12 hours of research credits and 9 hours of research methods and statistics.
- Professional seminars (9 credit hours): Fulfills teaching, grant writing, and career development competencies.
Dissertation:
- Students must complete and defend a dissertation to graduate.
Assessment
Preliminary Exam:
- Research project within the field of translational genetics of communication abilities.
- Conducted within the first three semesters of the program.
Comprehensive Exams:
- Written and oral exams covering the field of study.
- Must be passed before commencing dissertation research.
Dissertation Defense:
- Students must successfully defend their dissertation before graduating.
Teaching
Faculty:
- Collaborations with experts from the College of Health Solutions, including clinical linguists, bioscience experts, and specialists in translational clinical sciences.
- Opportunities to work with faculty from the Biodesign Institute, School of Life Sciences, and other subspecialty areas.
Teaching Methods:
- A combination of lectures, seminars, and hands-on research experiences.
- Individualized mentorship from faculty.
Careers
Potential Career Paths:
- Doctoral-level scientists in speech and hearing science
- Research scientists in the private or public sector
- University professors
- Medical science liaisons
- Program officers in nonprofit or government agencies
Career Opportunities:
- Tenure-track academic positions in speech-language pathology or audiology
- Research positions in for-profit or nonprofit entities
- Clinical practice with advanced skills in genetics and communication disorders
Other
Unique Program Features:
- Focus on translational research with the goal of improving clinical outcomes.
- Strong collaborations between researchers and clinicians.
Admission Requirements:
- Applicants must hold a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field.
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 required.
Financial Aid:
- Students are encouraged to explore financial aid options to support their studies.
Application Deadlines:
- Fall semester application deadline: December 1st.
Summary
The Speech and Hearing Science (Translational Genetics of Communication Abilities), PhD program at Arizona State University provides students with the knowledge and skills to investigate the genetic basis of communication disorders and translate that knowledge into effective clinical interventions. The program offers a rigorous but supportive learning environment with a strong focus on research and collaboration. Graduates are well-positioned to pursue careers in academia, research, or clinical practice.
Arizona State University: A Comprehensive Overview
Overview:
Arizona State University (ASU) is a top-ranked research university located in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. It is known for its innovative approach to education, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. ASU is recognized for its commitment to inclusivity, serving learners at all stages of life and fostering a diverse and welcoming community.
Services Offered:
ASU provides a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Academic Support:
Tutoring, advising, and academic success resources.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, financial aid programs, and tuition assistance.Student Life:
Housing and dining, clubs and activities, health and wellness services, and transportation.Career Services:
Job and career resources, internship opportunities, and career counseling.Student Life and Campus Experience:
ASU offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide array of clubs, organizations, and events, fostering personal growth and development. The university's diverse student body creates a rich cultural environment, promoting global perspectives and intercultural understanding.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Top-Ranked Programs:
ASU boasts numerous top-ranked programs, including 82 programs ranked in the top 25 nationally, with 37 in the top 10.Innovative Learning Environment:
ASU embraces a flexible and personalized approach to learning, allowing students to customize their academic journey.World-Class Faculty:
Students benefit from instruction led by renowned professors and researchers, many of whom are leaders in their fields.Global Impact:
ASU is consistently ranked among the top universities for global impact, demonstrating its commitment to addressing global challenges.Diverse and Inclusive Community:
ASU fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment, embracing students from all backgrounds and promoting a sense of belonging.Academic Programs:
ASU offers over 800 degree programs across a wide range of disciplines, including:
Undergraduate:
More than 400 undergraduate degrees in fields such as engineering, journalism, business, sustainability, nursing, education, and more.Graduate:
Over 450 graduate degrees, including master's and doctoral programs.Other:
ASU is known for its commitment to research and innovation, with a strong focus on addressing real-world challenges. The university is also a leader in sustainability, promoting environmental responsibility and social justice.
Entry Requirements:
EU Home Students:
- Bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., Speech-Language Pathology, Linguistics, Psychology) with a minimum GPA of 3.0
- Completion of foundational coursework in genetics
- Three letters of recommendation
- Resume or curriculum vitae
- Personal statement
International Overseas Students (Outside the EU):
- Bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., Speech-Language Pathology, Linguistics, Psychology) with a minimum GPA of 3.0
- Completion of foundational coursework in genetics
- Three letters of recommendation
- Resume or curriculum vitae
- Personal statement
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, etc.)
Language Proficiency Requirements:
Minimum TOEFL score:
80
Minimum IELTS score:
6.5
Minimum PTE score:
58
Note:
These are the minimum scores required. Higher scores may be preferred for competitive applicants.
- Applicants whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.
- The personal statement should include an explanation of the student's motivation to pursue a PhD with a specific faculty mentor in the program, evidence of potential to succeed in a research-intensive doctoral program, and goals for the future.
- An optional writing sample (6 to 10 pages) may be submitted with the program application. Writing samples include publications, research manuscripts, or a sample of academic writing.
- References should be individuals who can speak to the applicant's academic performance, clinical performance, or potential to succeed in a research-intensive doctoral program. They are typically faculty, clinical, or research supervisors.
