The B.S. (Bachelor of Science) education program in Communication Disorders at Western Kentucky University prepares students academically for graduate study in speech-language pathology, audiology, or related areas. A master's degree is required for national certification in speech-language pathology and a clinical doctorate is required for national certification in audiology. Licensure is also necessary in Kentucky but other states have various mandates for practicing professionals. All coursework follows guidelines recommended by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. The major for students in communication disorders (reference number 595) requires 120 hours and leads to a Bachelor of Science degree. The program includes 45 hours of general education courses, 55 hours in the specialization areas - speech pathology and audiology, 9 hours of professional preparation for teacher certification, and 3 hours of related studies. No minor or second major is necessary. All courses follow guidelines recommended by the American Speech Language and Hearing Association. All undergraduate students are also required to complete up to 50 supervised clinical clock hours, working with people having communication disorders. The undergraduate program prepares students academically for graduate study in Communication Disorders and Audiology. A master's degree is needed for certification as a Speech-Language Pathologist. Professional licensure is necessary in Kentucky, however, other states vary in their requirements for practicing professionals. Student teaching is completed at the graduate level.

Career opportunities in Communication Sciences and Disorders are expected to grow faster than average over the next ten years. This is due to several factors including an aging baby boomer population with increased possibilities of oncoming neurological disorders with accompanying speech, language, swallowing, and hearing impairments. Employment opportunities are also increasing due to improving survival rates of premature infants and trauma and stroke patients in need of assessment and intervention. Additionally, federal legislation guarantees services to all children with disabilities. Private practice opportunities will also increase due to the increase in contracted services with schools, nursing care/rehabilitation facilities and hospitals. Visit the links to the right to learn more about the Undergraduate Programs of Study offered by the Communication Sciences and Disorders Department.