The planned MS CDS program resides within the Department of Health Sciences in the College of Allied Health (CAH), which supports interdisciplinary communication, promotes a broad intellectual framework for problem solving and fosters the development of professional and spiritual values. CBU’s 63 unit Master of Science in Communication Disorders degree program will be offered once the program is approved for Candidacy by the Council on Academic Accreditation for Audiology and Speech Language Pathology (CAA) [link to website]. The two year cohort model master’s program will prepare graduates to become nationally certified, licensed speech-language pathologists. Students will learn from faculty who bring a wealth of academic knowledge and clinical experience in the areas of both developmental and acquired organic and neurogenic communication disorders. The program will focus students’ acquisition of the knowledge and skills needed to work in both educational and healthcare and community settings. In keeping with the CAH’s mission to transform lives through the healthcare professions, students will gain clinical hours as they partner with local schools and community organizations. Upon completion of the program, graduates will be eligible to apply for the Preliminary Speech Language Pathology Services Credential in order to serve children in public schools, the Required Professional Experience for California state licensure, and the Clinical Fellowship Year that leads to the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) for ASHA. As future speech-language pathologists, graduates will be well prepared to provide clinical services related to speech, language, fluency, voice, swallowing and cognition/communication.

Upon completion of the Masters of Science in Communication Disorders graduates will demonstrate: Knowledge of the biological sciences, physical sciences, statistics and the social/behavioral sciences to interpret literature and research related to the practice of speech language pathology. Ability to analyze and assess basic human communication and swallowing processes. Ability to diagnose and describe disorders and differences in articulation, language, fluency, respiration, resonance and phonation. Cultural sensitivity as it pertains to assisting persons with communication and swallowing disorders in culturally and linguistically diverse populations across the life span. Knowledge of standards of ethical conduct through interactions with clients, families, peers, and professionals. Ability to integrate research principles into evidence-based clinical practice. Ability to examine and summarize contemporary professional issues. Ability to outline procedures for entry level and advanced certification, licensure, and other relevant professional credentials and policies relevant to professional practice in a variety of settings. Ability to produce oral and written or other forms of communication sufficient for entry into professional practice. Ability to collaborate in the areas of evaluation and intervention with other professionals. Proficiency in supervised clinical assessment and treatment experiences with clients across the age span. Demonstrate capacity to plan and implement service opportunities within the community consistent with the Christian mission of the university.