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.