The Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) Program prepares students to pursue graduate education and career paths in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology. Through classroom instruction and field experiences, students learn about services and clinical interventions provided to children and adults in a variety of settings such as public schools, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers.
The demand for Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) is growing in Central Pennsylvania. CSD Program graduates who become SLPs will benefit from finding work in the region, and residents of all ages will benefit from the increase in available services.
The CSD curriculum closely follows American Speech and Hearing Association requirements. Students in their first two years take a variety of recommended General Education courses in disciplines including Psychology, Education, Chemistry, Biology, English, and Communication.
These courses support the CSD major curriculum, which includes courses such as Deaf Culture (CSD 269), Audiology (CSD 230), Assessing and Treating Language Disorders (CSD 300), and Aural Rehabilitation (CSD 433). Additionally, students can choose from a wide range of electives in Linguistics, Human Development and Family Studies, and Sociology, among others.
Following the 2+2 Plan, students can also begin the program on the Harrisburg campus and move to the University Park campus CSD Program.
The Harrisburg campus CSD Program will accept junior level transfers from non-Penn State institutions beginning in the Fall of 2022.