The School of Communication Science & Disorders

Dr. Juliann Woods, professor and chair of the Department of Communication Science & Disorders

Communication Science and Disorders students study the very essence of the human condition — communication. Communication disorders stem from an array of impairments in the speech, voice, resonance, fluency, swallowing, and language processes.

Disorders of human communication affect millions of Americans and cut across the entire life span. An estimated 1 in 6 individuals will suffer from a communication impairment in their lifetime. Speech-language pathologists identify, prevent, evaluate, and treat individuals with communication disorders. The growing number of people with communication impairments reflects a need for qualified speech-language pathologists, known as SLPs, to serve the populace.

Our program prepares individuals for a career in SLP in a variety of educational, hospital and private settings. Composed of 19 full-time faculty scholars and clinical educators, our department is also dedicated to clinical research operates the L.L. Schendel Speech and Hearing Clinic. We are one of the leading communication science and disorders program in the nation and one of the few to offer this emphasis. We are accredited by the Educational Standards and Professional Service Boards of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, and we have been ranked for several years among the top 25 schools by U.S. News and World Report.

As you peruse our Web site, you will find that our dedication to helping others, our emphasis on scholarly learning, and our student-friendly atmosphere make the School of Communication Science & Disorders a great place to be!