We're here to help.
When deciding on a university to complete your communication sciences and disorders degree with, it’s important to review the university’s accreditation. Institutional accreditation reflects the quality of that institution and the programs it offers. GCU is proudly accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and has been so since 1968, offering programs that meet rigorous educational standards.
During your communication sciences and disorders undergraduate program, you will cover various topics related to typical and disordered speech, language, hearing and swallowing.
Learning about these topics will be critical to your ability to provide understanding, treatment and rehabilitation to those with communication disorders and challenges.
Course topics you will study in the program include:
Read through our frequently asked questions to learn more about earning a degree in this field.
A communication sciences and disorders bachelor’s degree is a great way to jumpstart a career in speech pathology or audiology. After graduating, you may be eligible to work as an SLPA and support speech–language pathologists in their day-to-day activities.
Although the undergraduate degree itself does not qualify you to become a speech pathologist or audiologist, it can prepare you for entrance into a graduate speech pathology or audiology program. In your graduate program, you will complete master’s-level coursework and work to attain licensure and/or certification from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) to become a certified speech–language pathologist or audiologist. A master’s degree is the minimal entry-level degree to work as an SLP and a doctoral degree (AuD or PhD) is required to work as an audiologist or speech and hearing scientist.2
There is a lot to learn in the field of communication sciences and disorders. From the physical anatomy of our communication systems to understanding numerous disorders and applying knowledge of different cultural backgrounds, the material in this undergraduate program is certainly diverse. Applying yourself, focusing on your studies and being sure to take advantage of the resources that your university offers can aid you in completing this degree.
Yes. Science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs at GCU provide you with a 21st-century education, teaching you modern-day principles through an ethical, Christian worldview. STEM programs can prepare you to drive change in the field of your choice.
The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Communication Sciences and Disorders degree at GCU can equip you with a foundation of knowledge of developmental and acquired speech and language disorders. You work directly with clients and families to gain hands-on experience. As a graduate of this program, you will be taught to support those with impairments in communication by implementing evidenced-based therapeutic methodologies and functional intervention as a speech-language pathology assistant (SLPA).1
SLPAs may work in school systems, early intervention, private clinics, rehabilitation centers and other health-related environments. SLPAs are eligible to become American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) members through their Assistants Certification Program.
1 Obtaining SLPA licensure in any state is not guaranteed, students need to research their state’s specific licensing requirements.
2 More information about careers is available on the ASHA website.
As a graduate of this bachelor’s degree, you will have been taught knowledge that can help you prepare yourself for professional positions in the field. Along with gaining knowledge of various aspects of human communication disorders, you can also acquire an understanding of cultural humility, and you will be taught how to show respect for those with different values from a variety of backgrounds. These skills, along with leadership, problem-solving and ethical decision-making skills, are applicable to various careers related to communication sciences and disorders.
One role that graduates of this program may choose to pursue is that of a speech-language pathology assistant. SLPAs support licensed speech–language pathologists with their day-to-day tasks. These tasks can include assisting in therapeutic services, relaying information to patients and their families and performing administrative duties.
This communication sciences and disorders bachelor’s degree is for anyone who is looking to serve individuals with communication and related disorders while making ethical decisions and practicing cultural humility. Additionally, this degree can help you gain the knowledge and skills necessary to go on to graduate school to become a speech-language pathologist, audiologist or speech, language and hearing scientist.
You have the opportunity to complete your CSD undergraduate degree online. As you complete your studies, you can take advantage of the flexibility and convenience that online courses offer. You will also have access to the various online learning resources and support that GCU provides throughout your program.
If you’re interested in making a difference in the lives of those with communication impairments, apply online to start your journey toward this field.
Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).
