Shenandoah University

What you'll study

• SLP 400 Introduction to Communication Disorders
• SLP 401 Normal Speech and Language Development
• SLP 402 Speech and Hearing Anatomy & Physiology
• SLP 403 Audiology
• SLP 404 Phonetics
• SLP 405 Speech Science
• SLP 406 Clinical Observations in Communication Disorders

Students must complete BIO 231, BIO 232, or an equivalent biology course prior to enrollment in SLP 401; that biology course may be taken concurrently with SLP 400.

Entry requirements

To earn the certificate students must complete all seven courses (19 credits), maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5, and achieve at least a C- in each course for it to count toward the credential. As part of SLP 406, students are required to complete 25 guided observation hours under the supervision of a licensed and certified speech-language pathologist.

Career prospects

The curriculum is designed to create a pathway into graduate SLP programs (including alignment with Shenandoah’s MS‑SLP admission standards) and to provide foundational knowledge useful in clinical support roles, educational settings, or other allied-health positions that interact with people who have communication disorders.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Financial support options are not specified on the program page; prospective students should consult Shenandoah University admissions and financial aid offices for scholarship, grant, and funding opportunities relevant to certificate students and those planning to continue to graduate study.