Communication Science and Disorders

Speech Pathology Degree

Major in Communication Science and Disorders at Caldwell University

Caldwell University’s Bachelor of Science in Communication Science and Disorders degree program is designed to prepare you for a number of growing career opportunities in audiology and speech-language pathology. 

As a major in Communication Science and Disorders you will graduate qualified for entry-level jobs in speech-language or audio pathology or graduate programs on the path to becoming a certified speech pathologist, audiologist, or speech therapist. In the communication science and disorders major, you’ll experience courses incorporating the science behind communication, psychology, and linguistics, plus built-in clinical observation hours.

The four-year, 120-credit hour B.S. in Communication Science and Disorders program at Caldwell University is a collaborative interdisciplinary experience that allows you to develop a deeper understanding of the social, medical, and psychological issues affecting individuals with speech, language, and hearing difficulties at all stages of life.

Communication Science and Disorders Program Outcomes

The curriculum of Caldwell University’s B.S. in Communication Disorders program is informed by the standards of the American Speech, Language, and Hearing Association (ASHA) and the American Academy of Audiology (AAA). The B.S. in Communication Science and Disorders program at Caldwell University is currently pending State of New Jersey approval.

The B.S. in Communication Science and Disorders degree requirements cross disciplinary boundaries. Based on Caldwell’s learning model that incorporates a core liberal arts curriculum, Bachelor of Science students take courses designed to amplify critical thinking skills, global understanding, and the ability to analyze and convey knowledge ethically and effectively.

Bachelor’s Degree Requirements

The Bachelor of Science in Communication Science and Disorders requires you to take:

• Foundational Core general education courses—40 credit hours
• Enriched Core ethics, culture, and Catholic traditions education—9 credit hours
• Major courses focusing on speech and language development, communication disorders, alternative communication pathways, and therapeutic techniques—around 30 credits
• Elective courses of choice—around 40 credits
• 25 hours of guided clinical observation with a licensed speech-language pathologist

By taking core major courses in Communication Sciences, Psychology, Public Health, Modern Languages, and Sciences along with foundational courses focusing on philosophy, history, math, ethics, and social science, you’ll learn from a multifaceted academic approach to audio and speech-language pathology.

Minor Options at Caldwell

Minors at Caldwell University allow you to concentrate on a secondary area of study by taking the right elective courses. Diversify your career opportunities with different Caldwell University minor degrees, from healthcare administration to American Sign Language.

Preparation for Graduate Speech-Language Pathology Programs

If you’re passionate about helping people living with communication impairments, speech-language or audio pathology is a fulfilling vocation to pursue. Though speech pathology education typically includes graduate degrees, relevant undergraduate courses and experience can help you get a head start or even shorten your graduate degree path.

As a student in the B.S. in Communication Science and Disorders program you will complete 25 hours of built-in guided clinical experience under a licensed speech-language pathologist. This invaluable experience is informed by undergraduate coursework instructing you in techniques used to identify and treat a number of communication disorders.

With the clinical experience and healthcare education background of a degree in Communication Science and Disorders from Caldwell University, you will have the skills they need to apply for graduate-level speech pathology or speech therapy programs.

Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Career Outlook

Whether audio and speech pathologists work in schools or in healthcare settings, the communication disorders job market continues to grow. Along with a competitive salary of more than $80,000 per year and reliable career longevity, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts speech pathologists will see a 29% increase in employment by 2030, much higher than that across all occupations.

Careers in audiology and speech pathology also boast a great work/life balance. In addition, Business Insider (2020) ranked it as #12 for “highest-paying jobs working fewer than 40 hours a week.” U.S. News & World Report (2020) reported speech-language pathology to be #6 in “best healthcare jobs.” 

While speech and audio pathologists typically need to pursue a graduate degree in speech pathology or audiology, there are a number of supporting, entry-level positions in education and public policy that you may immediately qualify for with a B.S. in Communication Science and Disorders, such as:

• Audiology assistant
• Personal care or physical therapy aide
• School counselor or child life specialist
• ESL or special education teacher
• Sign language interpreter
• Speech pathology assistant
• Hearing aid dispenser
• Speech therapy assistant

Earn a Bachelor’s in Communication Science and Disorders at Caldwell University

Caldwell University’s Bachelor of Science in Communication Science and Disorders is an excellent undergraduate degree program for students seeking careers in speech pathology or audiology. 

In the B.S. in Communication Science and Disorders, you will enjoy a wide range of academic courses that prepare you for graduate study or employment in the healthcare, education, or public policy fields, as well as hands-on experience in real-world speech pathology settings through guided clinical observation.

If you’re interested in learning more about Caldwell University and the Bachelor’s in Communication Science and Disorders degree, fill out the information form on this page or schedule a visit.
Ready to apply? Review the admissions process and requirements, or begin your application today.