University of Northern Colorado

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational science and liberal‑arts coursework with specialised study of speech, language, hearing and swallowing. Core topics typically include phonetics and phonology, child and adult language development, articulation and resonance disorders, motor speech disorders, voice and fluency, audiology and hearing science, anatomy and physiology of the speech and hearing mechanisms, and neurological bases of communication.

Students also take research methods and statistics courses, multicultural and lifespan perspectives on communication disorders, and classes in counselling and family‑centred intervention. Practical components include observation, supervised clinical practicum, and a senior capstone or applied project that integrates assessment, intervention planning and outcomes measurement.

• Foundations of Communication Disorders (phonetics, anatomy/physiology)
• Language acquisition and language disorders in children
• Adult neurogenic communication disorders and dysphagia
• Introduction to audiology and hearing disorders
• Assessment and intervention techniques
• Research methods and statistics
• Supervised clinical observation and practicum
• Capstone or senior research project

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent and meet the University's general admission standards. Competition for the major typically requires a solid academic record, particularly in written English and science courses. Specific prerequisites often include introductory biology or anatomy, introductory psychology, and collegiate‑level composition; applicants without these may be advised to complete them before or during the first year of study.

Successful applicants frequently demonstrate relevant experience, such as volunteer work, observation hours in clinical or educational settings, or paid roles supporting children or adults with communication or learning needs. Because programme practicum may involve working with minors and vulnerable adults, students should be prepared for immunisation, health clearance and background checks as required for clinical placements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to enter the workforce in assistant or support roles and are well positioned for graduate study in speech‑language pathology or audiology. Typical entry‑level roles include speech‑language pathology assistant (SLPA), audiology aide/technician, early intervention specialist, behavioural supports technician and roles in special education or community rehabilitation. Many graduates continue to a master's or doctoral programme to become certified speech‑language pathologists or audiologists.

Other career pathways include clinical coordination, advocacy and policy roles in communication disorders, research assistant positions, and careers in allied health, education, public health, or communication sciences industries. The programme emphasises the clinical and research prerequisites commonly required for professional certification and licensure.

Why study at University of Northern Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado has a long tradition of preparing clinicians and educators with hands‑on clinical training and community engagement. The programme offers multiple supervised practicum settings — including university clinics, local schools and healthcare partnerships — so students can gain direct experience across age groups and communication needs.

Students benefit from faculty who are active in clinical practice and research, access to on‑campus diagnostic and therapy facilities, and advising designed to guide preparation for graduate certification and licensure requirements. The learning environment emphasises interprofessional collaboration, applied research, and cultural competence, helping graduates meet the expectations of clinical employers and graduate programmes.