Communication Sciences Graduate Program

The master of science in communication sciences and disorders allows students to enter careers in speech-language pathology. Graduates are also prepared to pursue the ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC). The degree includes a total of 54 semester hours of academic coursework and clinical practice. Applications to the graduate program should be postmarked by February 15th for the following fall semester.

Consistent with the mission of the university and the goals of the College of Health Professions, the overall mission of this master's degree program is to educate individuals whose skills and knowledge in the area of speech-language pathology services meet the challenges of a rapidly changing field. Graduates will meet the expanding need in South Georgia, the state, region, and nation. The program will work collaboratively with the speech-language pathology community to improve the quality of speech-language pathology services and enhance the scientific basis of professional practice.

Graduates of this program will:

• Demonstrate the knowledge and principles necessary for evaluation and treatment of communication impairments across the lifespan
• Analyze factors important to diagnosis and treatment plan development
• Document and effectively communicate their findings to the clients, their families and other professionals
• Meet legal and professional standards of competence and ethics
• Employ active learning methods that encourage self-reliance and promote continuous professional development
• Integrate theoretical knowledge and therapeutic competencies through group discussions, laboratories and clinical practice
• Demonstrate the highest qualities of character and ethical behavior as well as the knowledge, skills, and disposition that support scholarship, professionalism, technology, and diversity
• Meet the Knowledge and Skills Acquisition (KASA) and the minimum 400 clinical clock hours as described by ASHA for the Certificate of Clinical Competency

Criminal Background Check and Drug Screen

A background investigation and ten-panel drug screen must be completed with PSI , the company selected by Armstrong's College of Health Professions, prior to the start of classes. Results of these must be presesented to the program secretary no later than the second week of classes in the fall semester every year (typically twice -- once prior to the start of the graduate program and once prior to the start of the second year of the graduate program). Students who do not pass the criminal background check and a drug screening test will be restricted from clinical placements and may be dismissed from the program at the discretion of the program faculty and the Armstrong College of Health Professions administration. Any fee or cost associated with background checks and drug testing is the responsibility of the student.