Undergraduate Program

Bachelor of Arts in Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences

Undergraduate students in the speech-language-hearing sciences (SLHS) program are introduced to the professions of speech-language pathology and audiology through foundational coursework in communication systems, development, and disorders. Speech-language pathologists and audiologists work professionally in the habilitation and rehabilitation of children and adults (from infants to senior citizens) with a wide variety of speech, language, and hearing needs.

In order to become a licensed speech-language pathologist or audiologist, students must continue their education in a professional graduate-level training program. The undergraduate program provides the academic foundation and clinical exposure to prepare students to pursue a graduate degree. It is important that students consider this since most graduate programs require at least a B average for acceptance. Typically, students continue their academic and clinical training in a master's program in speech-language pathology or in a doctoral program in audiology. For more information Loyola's graduate program in speech-language pathology, visit the graduate section of the graduate catalogue.

Coursework in the major typically begins in the first year with introductory courses on typical and atypical communication. Following the introductory courses, students enroll in a variety of courses including those that address the anatomical structures and functions as well as the typical development of speech and hearing. In addition, the disorders of speech, language, and hearing are addressed for both pediatric and adult populations. In the senior year, students may qualify for a field experience in speech pathology.  

Some courses contain experiential components such as service-learning, clinical observations, and field experience. Some of these experiences take place at the Loyola Clinical Centers, located in Baltimore, Maryland. There are also a myriad of off-campus settings used for observation, service-learning, and/or course-related field experiences. These settings include general and specialized school programs, child and adult rehabilitation centers, and acute and chronic care hospitals in the Baltimore area.