Radford University

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational coursework in communication sciences with applied clinical experience. Core topics include the anatomy and physiology of speech and hearing systems, phonetics, language development across the lifespan, speech sound disorders, fluency and voice disorders, hearing science and basic audiology, neurogenic communication disorders, and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC).

Students also study research methods and statistics relevant to communication sciences, multicultural and lifespan perspectives on assessment and intervention, and professional issues and ethics. The curriculum typically includes a supervised clinical practicum in the Radford University Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic or community placements, where students gain hands-on experience in assessment, intervention planning and working with diverse populations.

• Introduction to Communication Disorders
• Anatomy & Physiology of Speech and Hearing
• Phonetics and Phonology
• Language Development and Disorders
• Speech Sound Disorders and Intervention
• Hearing Science and Aural Rehabilitation
• Neurogenic Communication Disorders
• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
• Research Methods and Statistics
• Clinical Practicum and Professional Issues

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a secondary school qualification equivalent to a US high school diploma with a competitive GPA. Typical entry requirements include satisfactory performance in core subjects, particularly biology or another life science and English. Radford may consider standardised test scores where required, but admissions decisions also take into account personal statements and relevant extracurricular or volunteer experience.

Because the programme leads to clinical placements, students should be prepared to meet health and safety requirements for practicum sites (for example, immunisations and background checks). International applicants will need to demonstrate English language proficiency according to the university's published requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates with a bachelor's in Communication Disorders Sciences and Services commonly progress to graduate-level professional training. To become a certified speech-language pathologist or audiologist, graduates normally pursue a master's (speech-language pathology) or a clinical doctorate (audiology). The undergraduate degree also prepares students for roles such as speech-language pathology assistant, early intervention specialist, classroom support staff in special education, rehabilitation aide, research assistant, or administrative roles in health and human services.

Other career paths include working in educational settings, community health programmes, non-profit organisations that support people with communication differences, and supporting graduate-level clinical research. The programme provides the academic foundation and clinical exposure that make graduates competitive applicants for professional graduate programmes.

Why study at Radford University

Radford University offers small class sizes and close faculty mentorship within a college that emphasises health and human services. Students benefit from access to an on-campus Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic and local community partnerships for practicum placements, allowing supervised, hands-on experience with varied client populations.

The programme emphasises interdisciplinary learning, preparing students to work alongside educators, healthcare professionals and community services. Faculty members are active in teaching and applied research, and the university supports students pursuing graduate studies and clinical certification through advising, practicum supervision and professional development opportunities.