Academic Catalog

Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Lynne E. Hewitt, Professor and Chairperson

Students who select speech-language pathology (SLP) as their major typically are seeking to pursue a career in speech-language pathology or audiology. The Ithaca College undergraduate program in SLP provides the solid academic foundation coupled with hands-on clinical experience essential for achieving these goals.  Students who successfully complete the Ithaca College undergraduate program in SLP earn a B.S. degree that provides them with the foundational knowledge and beginning clinical skills that are important for further graduate study in speech-language pathology (note that a Master's degree is required to be certified as a speech-language pathologist by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association), or audiology (a doctoral degree in audiology is required). Students are also well prepared to enter related areas of study at the graduate level, in a variety of health- and education-related fields.

Core required coursework in the major focuses on basic human communication processes while introducing students to the study of speech, language, and hearing disorders. This core coursework is complemented by the Integrative Core Curriculum.  In the senior year, in addition to taking a capstone clinical methodology course, students participate in a clinical practicum.

Strengths of the Ithaca College program in SLP include the following:

  1. classes in the major during the first year;
  2. a minimum of 37 credits of coursework in basic communication processes and disordered communication (e.g., basic audiology, child language and speech-sound disorders);
  3. teacher education coursework that can be applied toward future certification through the New York State Education Department (Teaching Students with Speech and Language Disabilities (TSSLD) certificate);
  4. 25 hours of clinical observations accompanied by thoughtfully constructed professional writing assignments;
  5. clinical experience working directly with clients (clinical hours earned may be applied for future certification);
  6. study abroad during the junior year, if desired;
  7. a minor area of study (e.g., Psychology, Deaf Studies, Education Studies) if desired; and
  8. excellent preparation for graduate school.

Students in the SLP major must complete all required coursework for a grade.


Internal Transfers into the SLP Major

Students who are currently enrolled at Ithaca College are welcome to transfer into the speech-language pathology major. It is recommended, but not required, that students transfer prior to beginning the sophomore year. To be eligible to transfer into the major students must meet with the department chair to discuss the major. In addition, students must meet all college and departmental requirements for satisfactory academic standing. The college's online transfer request may be submitted after the chair approves and as long as all the eligibility requirements have been met.

Auto-acceptance into Graduate Program

Students in the speech-language pathology major at Ithaca College who meet minimum GPA requirements at the time of their application to the graduate program will be automatically accepted. Students who are automatically accepted into the graduate program must apply within two years following graduation from the undergraduate program.  Students who meet auto-acceptance requirements still need to submit an application via the CSDCAS application system.  Please see the graduate program page for details on applying to the master's degree program.

Special Academic Status Policy for Speech-Language Pathology Majors

To maintain satisfactory academic standing, a student must

  • maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.50 or above,
  • complete all courses in the major (SLPA xxxxx) with a grade of C- or better, and
  • successfully complete at least 24 credits in any consecutive 12-month period.

Prior to completion of the major, the student is required to repeat required departmental courses in which they receive a grade below C-. No advanced course may be taken until all prerequisites for it have been completed with a grade of C- or better.

Academic warning: A student who fails to meet any of the requirements for satisfactory standing stated above will be placed on academic warning.

Dismissal: A student who fails to meet the requirements for satisfactory standing for two consecutive semesters will be dismissed from the major and also may be suspended or dismissed from the school and from Ithaca College. If remaining at Ithaca College, students must obtain entrance to another major during the semester following their dismissal; obtaining entrance to another major is the responsibility of the student.

Transfer Credit

Students who have completed courses in communication disorders at a regionally accredited institution may Petition for Transfer Credit to have up to 4 of these courses count towards SLP degree requirements. Requests must be accompanied by a copy of the syllabus of the course taken. The department chair will review requests in consultation with the Ithaca College course instructor for the course being requested, and determine if courses are equivalent to required departmental courses; their decision is final.  Transfer credit requests must comply with Ithaca College policies for Credit from External Sources.

Majors & Minors

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SLPA 10901 American Sign Language I (LA)

Introduction to the linguistic features and core vocabulary needed to develop basic communicative competence in ASL. Students learn basic ASL grammar and apply this knowledge when using ASL to ask and answer questions, introduce themselves, exchange personal information, talk about family and friends, talk about surroundings, provide descriptions, and discuss activities. Discussion of deaf culture is infused throughout the course. Practicing conversations and active participation in and out of class are required. (F-S,Y)
3 Credits

SLPA 11010 Phonetics (NLA)

An introduction to the study of speech sounds used in the production of American English. Emphasis is placed on (1) sound to symbol transcription using the International Phonetic Alphabet, as well as (2) development of transcription speed and accuracy. Anatomy and physiology of the speech mechanism are introduced for the purpose of describing speech sound production. (F-S,Y)
3 Credits

SLPA 12000 Information Research Strategies for Speech Language Pathology and Audiology (NLA)

Develop information literacy and evidence-based practice research skills within the context of the Speech Language Pathology and Audiology. Apply research skills that include studying and time management strategies, search strategies, critical evaluation of information, information management, documentation, communication, and use of information from a variety of sources and formats in an effective and ethical manner. (S,Y)
2 Credits

SLPA 15000 Introduction to Communication Disorders (LA)

An introduction to speech, language, and hearing disorders. A variety of disorders in both children and adults is surveyed, including articulation and language disorders, stuttering, learning disability, cleft palate, cerebral palsy, voice disorders, and hearing losses. The study of these disorders includes incidence/prevalence, characteristics, causes, cultural and linguistic variations, and the impact of the disorder on the individual and society. The course is designed for and open to all students. (F-S,Y)
Attributes: 1, SS
3 Credits

SLPA 20800 Perspectives on Deafness (LA)

Examination of disability perspectives and alternatives to disability perspectives on deafness in the US. Discussion of issues related to child development (e.g., development of speech, language, and literacy) from an educational perspective. Discussion of intervention from an audiological perspective. Discussion of controversies inside and outside the deaf community related to educational and clinical interventions. Prerequisite: SLPA 10901 with a grade of C- or better. (F,Y)
3 Credits

SLPA 20901 American Sign Language II (LA)

Students learn additional linguistic features, cultural protocols, and core vocabulary. Students practice using ASL grammar for giving directions, describing others, making requests, attributing qualities to others, and talking about family, occupations, and routines. Discussion of Deaf culture is infused throughout the course. Practicing conversations and videotaping use of ASL in and out of class are required. Prerequisites: SLPA 10901 with a grade of C- or better. (F-S,Y)
Attributes: HU
3 Credits

SLPA 21200 Anatomy and Physiology of the Speech and Hearing Mechanisms (LA)

Anatomy and physiology of the speech and hearing mechanisms; respiration, phonation, resonation, articulation, and basic neurological concepts underlying the communication process. Prerequisites: Second-semester freshman status. (F,Y)
Attributes: NS
3 Credits

SLPA 21600 Child Language and Literacy Development (LA)

Introduces the student to the study of language and literacy development in children. Topics include prelinguistic development, components of language, theoretical models of language acquisition, individual differences, relationships between oral and written language, and cultural and linguistic variations in language development. (F,Y)
Attributes: SS
3 Credits

SLPA 23500 Language and Speech Sound Disorders in Children (NLA)

Exploration of developmental speech and language disorders, including comparison of typical and disordered development. Identify, critically evaluate, and apply evidence-based practices in speech and language assessment and intervention, using clinical case studies. Prerequisites: SLPA 11010 and SLPA 21600 with a grade of C- or better. (S)
4 Credits

SLPA 24000 Basic Audiology (NLA)

Study of anatomy and physiology of the hearing mechanism, acoustics, auditory pathologies, classification of hearing disorders, and the profession of audiology. Additional topics covered include pure-tone and speech audiometry, immittance measures, and material of current interest. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing. (F,Y)
3 Credits

SLPA 24200 Aural Rehabilitation (NLA)

Study of the perceptual, psychological, and educational implications of hearing loss. The course will focus on areas significant to the (re)habilitation of individuals with hearing loss, such as identification, evaluation, remediation, and counseling. Prerequisites: SLPA 24000 with a grade of C- or better. (S,Y)
3 Credits

SLPA 30901 American Sign Language III (LA)

Emphasis is placed on development of communicative competencies in ASL conversations beyond the basic level including telling life events, describing events in time, asking for clarification, correcting, conforming, elaboration on information, agreeing and disagreeing, resolving conflicts, and giving directions. Classroom and outside activities include practicing dialogues, short stories, narratives, and short conversation. Discussion of Deaf culture is infused throughout the course. Practicing conversations and videotaping use of ASL in and out of class are required. Prerequisites: SLPA 20901 with a grade of C- or better. This course is only open to Deaf Studies minors. (F,Y)
3 Credits

SLPA 31000 Deaf Culture (LA)

Examination of deaf heritage including contributions and perspectives of leaders in the Deaf community. Examination of deafness as portrayed in literature and movies. Examination of artistic expression within the Deaf community including contemporary visual artists and the National Theatre for the Deaf. A guided project is required, and travel to a theatrical production may be required. (S,Y)
3 Credits

SLPA 32500 Voice and Swallowing Disorders (NLA)

Examine and understand the nature, etiology, and physiology of normal and abnormal voice and swallowing patterns. Learn about the variety of clinical procedures involved in voice and swallowing evaluations. Gain knowledge in the available instrumental procedures used in the study of voice and swallowing disorders. Explore a variety of intervention strategies for voice and swallowing disorders. Prerequisite: SLPA 21200. (S,Y)
3 Credits

SLPA 33000 Advanced Clinical Audiology (NLA)

An in-depth exploration of clinical audiology with hands on experiential learning. Topics include but are not limited to diagnostic procedures, hearing technology, special populations, and patient-centered practice. Students engage in active learning through integrating lecture materials, hands-on activities, lab work, and group projects. Prerequisites: SLPA 24000 with a grade of B or higher; SLPA 24200 with a grade of B or higher. (F,Y)
3 Credits

SLPA 35900 Communication Disorders in the Aging Population (LA)

Introduces the communication disorders common to older persons. Speech and language disorders, hearing disorders, and the role of allied health professionals are examined. Prerequisites: Any 10000-level GERO course or BIOL 20500 or SLPA 21200, at least one of which must be completed with a grade of C- or better. (S,Y)
Attributes: SS
3 Credits

SLPA 36000 Brain Science (LA)

Addresses the basic structure and function of the brain with a special focus on the neuroscience of communication. Relationships between different lesion sites in the brain and the communication breakdowns that they produce will be introduced. Prerequisites: SLPA 21200 with a grade of C- or better. (F,Y)
3 Credits

SLPA 36500 Basic Speech Science (LA)

Introduces the undergraduate student in speech-language pathology to topics in speech science. Areas covered include an overview of the acoustics of sound, the glottal spectrum, acoustics of consonant and vowel production and perception, suprasegmentals, and instrumentation. Prerequisites: SLPA 21200 with a grade of C- or better. (S,Y)
Attributes: NS
3 Credits

SLPA 37000 Clinical Observation (NLA)

Provides an intensive clinical observation experience in conjunction with classroom instruction focusing on designing individualized intervention programs, writing behavioral objectives, and general case management strategies. This course is only open to students in the Speech-Language Pathology major. Prerequisites: SLPA 23500 with a grade of C- or better. (F,S,Y)
3 Credits

SLPA 39900-39904 Selected Topics in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Topics of current interest to faculty and students. Experimental courses are offered under this course number and title. This course may be repeated for credit for different selected topics. Prerequisites: As appropriate to topics. (IRR)
1-3 Credits

SLPA 42900 Tutorial in Speech-Language Pathology (NLA)

Intensive study in speech-language pathology for advanced students. The student presents a written proposal to an instructor who is chosen by the student to direct the tutorial. After the instructor agrees to direct the tutorial, copies of the proposal are forwarded to the student's adviser and chairperson for final approval. This procedure must be completed prior to registration. Prerequisites: Junior standing; permission of adviser and department chair. (F-S,Y)
1-3 Credits

SLPA 44900 Tutorial in Audiology (NLA)

Intensive study in audiology for advanced students. The student presents a written proposal to an instructor who is chosen by the student to direct the tutorial. After the instructor agrees to direct the tutorial, copies of the proposal are forwarded to the student's adviser and chairperson for final approval. This procedure must be completed prior to registration. Prerequisites: Junior standing; permission of adviser and department chair. (F-S,Y)
1-3 Credits

SLPA 45900 Communication Disorders in Culturally Diverse Populations (NLA)

Cultural pluralism as it relates to communication disorders in the United States; its impact on the professions of speech-language pathology and audiology; and sociolinguistic issues of dialect, communication style, and attitudes toward them. Discussion includes cultural factors that may influence the acquisition of speech and language; incidence and variation of specific speech and language disorders among diverse populations; assessment and treatment procedures that accommodate cultural differences; goal selection strategies; selection of unlisted materials; educational implications; and specific intervention cases. Prerequisites: Senior standing or permission of instructor; only open to Speech-Language Pathology majors. (S,Y)
3 Credits

SLPA 47200 Clinical Methods (NLA)

This capstone course provides in-depth discussion of the clinical process with emphasis on assessment and intervention strategies, therapy approaches, and principles. This course is open only to Speech-Language Pathology majors. Prerequisites: SLPA 37000 with a grade of C- or better; senior standing. Corequisites: SLPA 47300. (F,S,Y)
Attributes: CP
3 Credits

SLPA 47300 Clinical Practicum (NLA)

Applied, supervised clinical practicum experience in speech-language pathology that provides the opportunity to interact with clients. Involves developing and implementing a program of therapy, preparing lesson plans, and writing progress reports. Prerequisites: SLPA 37000 with a grade of C- or better. Corequisites: SLPA 47200. This course is only open to Speech-Language Pathology majors. (F-S, Y)
1 Credit

SLPA 49900-49902 Independent Study in Speech-Language Pathology/Audiology (NLA)

Individual investigations (in-depth study, research, reading) related to Speech-Language Pathology or Audiology that are not fully covered by regular coursework. Arranged individually between the student and faculty sponsor according to the guidelines set forth by the school of HSHP. Prerequisites: Approval of the faculty sponsor, advisor, department chair, and dean. (F-S,IRR)
1-3 Credits