M.S. in Environmental Toxicology
The University of South Alabama, located in Mobile, Alabama, is at the forefront of env...
BS in Speech and Hearing Sciences
Mobile, Alabama
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The BS in Speech and Hearing Sciences program at the University of South Alabama provides students with a comprehensive education in the study of communication disorders. This program is designed to prepare students for careers in speech-language pathology, audiology, and related fields. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience, the program equips students to understand, assess, and treat various speech, language, and hearing disorders. Graduates are well-prepared to pursue advanced degrees or enter the workforce in roles that support communication health and intervention.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the BS in Speech and Hearing Sciences is structured to offer a balanced mix of core courses, specialized training, and hands-on experience. Key courses include Introduction to Communication Disorders, Anatomy and Physiology of Speech and Hearing, Speech and Language Development, and Audiology. The program also covers research methods and ethics in communication sciences. Students gain practical skills through clinical observations and internships, where they work with individuals experiencing communication disorders, applying theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. This blend of coursework and experiential learning ensures that graduates are well-equipped to handle diverse challenges in the field.
Research Focus: Research is a vital component of the BS in Speech and Hearing Sciences program. Faculty members are engaged in research on various aspects of communication disorders, including speech and language development, hearing loss, and therapeutic interventions. Students are encouraged to participate in research projects, which helps them develop critical thinking and analytical skills. This research focus contributes to advancing the field of communication sciences and provides students with the opportunity to explore cutting-edge topics and methodologies in speech and hearing science.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is integral to the BS in Speech and Hearing Sciences program. Students benefit from partnerships with local clinics, hospitals, and community organizations, which provide opportunities for internships and practical experience. These connections allow students to gain insights into the professional world of speech and hearing sciences, build networks with industry professionals, and apply their knowledge in clinical settings. The program also hosts workshops, guest lectures, and networking events, further bridging the gap between academic learning and industry practice.
Global Perspective: The BS in Speech and Hearing Sciences program incorporates a global perspective by exploring communication disorders from an international viewpoint. Students learn about global trends in speech and hearing sciences, cross-cultural issues in communication, and international approaches to treatment and intervention. The program may offer study abroad opportunities or collaborate with international institutions, providing students with a broader understanding of how communication disorders are addressed worldwide. This global perspective prepares graduates to work in diverse environments and engage with global challenges in communication health.
Location
Mobile, Alabama
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 17232
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $35
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 61 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 44 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 100.
The University of South Alabama (USA) offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to international students to help make their education more affordable. These scholarships are competitive, and eligibility criteria may vary.
Global USA Scholarship: This scholarship is specifically designed for incoming undergraduate international students. Eligibility is based on academic merit, and students must maintain a minimum GPA to renew the scholarship each year.
International Academic Scholarship: This scholarship is open to undergraduate and graduate international students with outstanding academic records. The award amount varies and is based on academic achievement.
International Freshman Academic Scholarship: This scholarship is for first-time, degree-seeking international undergraduate students. It is merit-based and awarded based on academic performance.
International Student Retention Scholarship: This scholarship is designed to assist continuing international students in their academic pursuits. Eligibility is based on maintaining a minimum GPA and active involvement in campus activities.
External Scholarships: International students may also explore external scholarship opportunities, both from their home countries and international organizations, to fund their education at USA.
It's important to note that scholarship availability and eligibility criteria may change from year to year.
Graduates with a BS in Speech and Hearing Sciences from the University of South Alabama have a variety of career opportunities in the fields of communication disorders and audiology. The program provides a strong foundation in the principles of speech and hearing sciences, preparing graduates for both entry-level positions and advanced studies.
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant: One of the primary career options for graduates is to work as a speech-language pathology assistant (SLPA). In this role, they support licensed speech-language pathologists by implementing treatment plans, conducting therapy sessions, and documenting patient progress. This position provides valuable hands-on experience and is a common stepping stone for those pursuing advanced degrees in speech-language pathology.
Audiology Assistant: Graduates can work as audiology assistants, supporting audiologists in diagnosing and treating hearing and balance disorders. Responsibilities may include performing hearing screenings, assisting with audiometric testing, and helping patients with hearing aids and other assistive devices. This role is ideal for those interested in working directly with individuals experiencing hearing challenges.
Rehabilitation Aide: Rehabilitation aides work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers. They assist in the delivery of therapeutic services, prepare patients for therapy sessions, and support clinicians with administrative tasks. This position provides experience in the healthcare field and can be a stepping stone to more specialized roles.
Communication Disorders Specialist: Graduates may work as communication disorders specialists in educational settings, community health organizations, or private practices. They assist in the assessment and treatment of communication disorders, support individuals with speech and language difficulties, and develop intervention strategies under the supervision of licensed professionals.
Healthcare Coordinator: In healthcare settings, graduates can take on roles as healthcare coordinators, managing patient care and ensuring effective communication between healthcare providers and patients. They may coordinate services for individuals with speech and hearing disorders, helping to navigate the healthcare system and access necessary resources.
Educational Support Specialist: Graduates can work as educational support specialists in schools, providing assistance to students with communication disorders. They may support individualized education plans (IEPs), work with teachers to adapt instructional strategies, and provide one-on-one support to students with speech and language needs.
Research Assistant: For those interested in the research aspect of speech and hearing sciences, positions as research assistants offer the opportunity to contribute to studies on communication disorders, intervention strategies, and new technologies. Research assistants work alongside faculty and researchers, gaining experience in data collection, analysis, and academic publication.
Public Health Educator: Graduates can work as public health educators, focusing on raising awareness about communication disorders and promoting preventive measures. They may develop educational materials, conduct workshops, and collaborate with community organizations to enhance public understanding and support for speech and hearing health.
Sales and Support for Assistive Technology: In the commercial sector, graduates can work in sales and support roles for companies that provide assistive technology for communication disorders. They may assist clients in selecting appropriate devices, provide product demonstrations, and offer technical support.
Further Education and Professional Training: Many graduates choose to pursue advanced degrees in speech-language pathology, audiology, or related fields. The BS in Speech and Hearing Sciences program provides a strong foundation for graduate studies, preparing students for master’s and doctoral programs that lead to licensure and specialized professional roles.
