Communication Sciences and Disorders

Doctor of Philosophy

Comm Sci Dept PhD Manual (Word) |

Comm Sci Dept PhD Manual (PDF)

General Statement

The Ph.D. program prepares students to become scholars in the discipline of Communication Sciences and Disorders, specifically speech-language pathology. The objective is education in specific methods of research appropriate to the student's are of specialization to the level where the graduate will be able to make original and valuable contributions. The student should be able to place his or her own contributions and the contributions of others in the proper perspective with regard to theoretical and philosophical positions and trends. It is anticipated that graduates will contribute to the discipline as leaders in the areas of teaching, research, administration, and clinical services.

Areas of Concentration

Areas of specialization include (but are not limited to) the processes and problems associated with child language, the use of language in different contexts, issues in learning a first or second language, effects of brain damage on language function, voice use and disorder.

Application Deadlines

Applications should be received by November 1 for the spring semester and by March 1 for the fall semester.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must hold a graduate degree in their area of specialization. Students may be asked to complete departmental prerequisites that are not part of their previous graduate or undergraduate programs. Applicants must submit scores from the Graduate Record Examination, three letters of recommendation, official academic transcripts, and a sample of written scholarly work.

Degree Requirements

Doctoral students are required to complete 72 credits in graduate coursework related to a defined area of specialization, plus a maximum of 18 credits of dissertation research after being elevated to candidacy. Depending on the area of emphasis, students may be required to demonstrate knowledge of a second language. After finishing coursework, all students take a preliminary examination covering the student's primary academic areas. Doctoral candidates must complete and orally defend a dissertation based on original research. Specific course requirements are determined by the student's advisory committee and may include courses both inside and outside the department.

For specific additional information concerning standards of retention and graduation and the process of doctoral study, click here.