Cost & earnings at University of Nebraska Kearney What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
Communication Disorders Sciences graduates earn a median $26,353 Across 308 US programmes, two years after finishing
See the degree grade →The Bachelor in Communication Disorders Sciences and Services at the University of Nebraska Kearney is an undergraduate programme that introduces the science of human communication and its disorders, combining coursework in speech, language, hearing and clinical methods with supervised practicum. It suits students who want to work with children and adults who have communication differences and who may plan to enter graduate training in speech-language pathology or audiology or pursue related careers in education, healthcare and community services.
The programme covers the biological, developmental and social foundations of communication, assessment and intervention methods, and practicum-based clinical experience. Core topics typically include anatomy and physiology of speech and hearing, phonetics, normal language development across the lifespan, communication disorders (including articulation, language disorders, fluency, voice and cognitive-communication disorders), basic audiology, and neurogenic communication disorders.
Students also take courses in research methods and statistics for communication sciences, multicultural and lifespan issues in service delivery, and ethics and professional issues. Practical learning is emphasised through observation and supervised clinical practica in the University of Nebraska Kearney Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic and through community placements, where students apply assessment and intervention principles under faculty supervision.
Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent and meet University of Nebraska Kearney general admission standards. Successful candidates typically present a solid foundation in English and mathematics; introductory coursework in biology or psychology is advantageous. Admission into the major may require completion of specific prerequisite courses and a competitive academic record at the collegiate level for transfer students.
International applicants need to meet the university's English language proficiency requirements. Because the field includes client contact, applicants must be prepared to meet background check and health clearance requirements for on-campus clinic work and off-campus placements as stipulated by placement partners.
Graduates with a bachelor's in Communication Disorders Sciences and Services commonly progress to graduate study in speech-language pathology or audiology, which is required for professional certification and clinical practice as a speech-language pathologist or audiologist. The undergraduate degree also prepares students for roles as paraprofessionals or speech-language pathology assistants, classroom support positions in special education, rehabilitation aide roles in healthcare settings, and community service or advocacy positions focused on communication access and inclusion.
Other career paths include research assistantships, programme coordination for early intervention services, and preparing for related graduate training in areas such as education, public health, or clinical rehabilitation. The programme’s practicum and community links help build employable clinical skills and professional networks.
University of Nebraska Kearney offers a programme with small class sizes and close faculty supervision, enabling personalised feedback and mentorship. Students benefit from hands-on experience in the on-campus Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic and supervised community placements across the region, which provide a range of client ages and communication needs.
Faculty in the department combine teaching with clinical practice and research, supporting undergraduate involvement in applied research projects and presentations. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for graduate-level study and for employment in education, healthcare and community settings, with advising focused on meeting prerequisites and competencies expected by graduate programmes and employers.
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