University of Southern Mississippi

What you'll study

This undergraduate programme covers the scientific and clinical foundations of human communication and swallowing. Core topics include anatomy and physiology of speech and hearing, phonetics, language development, articulation and phonological disorders, voice and fluency disorders, and basic audiology. You will study assessment and intervention principles, evidence‑based practice, research methods and statistics relevant to communication sciences, and multicultural and lifespan perspectives on communication disorders.

Practical learning is emphasised through observation and supervised clinical experiences in the university’s speech and hearing clinic as well as community placements. Typical modules and learning activities include:

• Introduction to Communication Disorders
• Anatomy & Physiology of Speech and Hearing
• Phonetics and Phonology
• Child and Adult Language Development
• Speech Sound Disorders and Remediation
• Clinical Audiology and Hearing Assessment
• Neurogenic Communication Disorders (e.g. aphasia, dysarthria)
• Research Methods and Applied Statistics
• Clinical Practicum and Observation Hours
• Seminars on Professional Ethics, Interprofessional Practice and Cultural Competence

Entry requirements

Applicants should meet the University of Southern Mississippi’s undergraduate admission standards and indicate the major at application or apply to change majors after matriculation. Typical preparation includes a high school diploma (or equivalent) with strong performance in English and science courses; background in biology or life sciences and mathematics is advantageous. Selection for the major may consider overall academic record, prerequisite course completion, and space in the programme.

Because the programme includes clinical placements, students must be able to meet professional health and safety requirements; this commonly involves background checks, up‑to‑date immunisations and ability to participate in supervised clinical settings. Prospective students aiming for professional certification are advised to consult the department for any additional prerequisites or recommended preparatory courses.

Career prospects

The bachelor’s degree prepares graduates for entry‑level roles and for progression to professional graduate programmes. Common next steps include pursuing a Master’s degree in Speech‑Language Pathology or a Doctor of Audiology (AuD), which are required for national certification and state licensure to practise as a speech‑language pathologist or audiologist.

With a bachelor’s qualification, graduates can work as:

• Speech‑language pathology assistants or support personnel (where regulations permit)
• Audiology or speech clinic support staff
• Special education paraprofessionals and preschool intervention aides
• Rehabilitation aides in hospitals or community health settings
• Research or laboratory assistants on communication sciences projects

Graduates also find roles in education, early intervention programmes, non‑profit advocacy, and community outreach. Those seeking independent clinical practice will need to complete graduate training and obtain the appropriate certification and licensure in their jurisdiction.

Why study at University of Southern Mississippi

The University of Southern Mississippi offers a programme that combines classroom instruction with hands‑on clinical experience through its on‑campus speech and hearing clinic and community partnerships. Students benefit from faculty who are active in research and clinical practice, small cohort sizes that support personalised mentoring, and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration across health and education fields.

The department’s emphasis on evidence‑based practice, cultural competence and community engagement helps prepare students for graduate study and for service in diverse settings. Facilities and clinical training opportunities provide a realistic preparation for the professional expectations of speech‑language pathology and audiology careers.