B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders

The bachelor's degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders at Western Carolina will prepare you for careers in speech-language pathology, audiology, and speech-hearing sciences. This is a pre-professional program that leads to a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree. Although many of our students pursue advanced degrees in speech-language pathology or audiology, our graduates will find that the curriculum has prepared them well for meaningful careers in healthcare and education so that they can serve persons with developmental or acquired disabilities and their families. Check out the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association for more information about education and careers in CSD!

To earn the B.S. in CSD, the student is required to earn a minimum of 120 credit hours (CH) obtained by completing the following:

• 42 CH of Liberal Studies
• 18 CH of Minor courses or Related Professional Courses (RPCs)
  • Students often minor in related disciplines such as Inclusive Education (Special Education), Psychology, or a foreign language. However, students can also choose to purpose a minor in other areas, such as the fine and performing arts and business.
  • RPCs allow students to diversify their education with professional goals in mind. For example, students often choose to take courses across disciplines, including those names above, but also sociology, counseling, social work, biology, and health sciences.
• 18 CH of general electives
• 42 CH in the major

Because the degree requires only 120 credit hours, it can be completed in four years (eight semesters) taking 15 credit hours each semester. However, there is flexibility in some ways as we also offer certain required courses via distance in the summer. 

If you are interested in meeting with CSD faculty or touring the facilities, you can email the Department Head, Dr. Leigh Odom (KMOdom@wcu.edu) to make arrangements. (Please schedule with us in advance as we cannot guarantee availability for drop-ins.) By partnering with the WCU Advising Center representatives and your assigned CSD academic advisor, we can support you through your college experience with a personalized plan made just for you.

Helpful Documents & Resources

• Related Professional Courses (RPC) list
• Undergraduate Course Sequence
• Eight-Semester Plan for B.S. in CSD
• Prevention of Communication Disorders
• Statement on CSD's commitment to diversity
• Career Options with a B.S. in CSD
• CSD Observation Form