B.A. in Women & Gender Studies
Queens College offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across variou...
B.A. in Communication Sciences and Disorders
New York City, New York
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The B.A. in CSD at Queens College equips students with comprehensive knowledge in the scientific study of human communication, its typical development, and the nature of communication disorders. The curriculum covers a wide spectrum of topics, including voice disorders, phonetics, language acquisition, and audiology. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and foundational clinical understanding, preparing students for the rigorous academic and clinical demands of graduate school. Admission to the CSD major is application-based and competitive, requiring a minimum GPA of 3.0 in foundational courses.
Curriculum: The curriculum is carefully structured, starting with introductory courses like "Fundamentals of Psycholinguistics for the Study of Typical and Atypical Language" (LCD 105), "Introduction to Communication Disorders" (LCD 106), and "Phonetics" (LCD 110). As students progress, they delve into more specialized subjects such as "Anatomy and Physiology for Speech and Language" (LCD 207), "Hearing Science" (LCD 208), "Language Acquisition" (LCD 216), "Speech Science" (LCD 309), "Language of the School-Aged Child" (LCD 316), and specific courses on "Speech Disorders" (LCD 322) and "Language Disorders" (LCD 323), as well as "Audiology" (LCD 330). Additionally, students are required to take supporting courses in psychology, statistics, and both biological and physical sciences, ensuring a robust scientific foundation crucial for graduate studies in the field.
Research Focus: The Department of Linguistics and Communication Disorders at Queens College is actively engaged in research that directly informs the CSD curriculum and clinical practice. While specific undergraduate research opportunities might vary, faculty research interests often encompass areas such as autism spectrum disorders, cognitive communication (e.g., dementia, traumatic brain injury), dysphagia and swallowing, neurogenic speech and language disorders (aphasia, apraxia, dysarthria), hearing science, and issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion in communication sciences. The department's on-campus Speech-Language-Hearing Center serves as a vital laboratory for faculty and graduate students involved in applied clinical research, offering undergraduates exposure to ongoing scientific inquiry and practical application of their studies.
Industry Engagement: The B.A. in Communication Sciences and Disorders at Queens College is heavily geared towards preparing students for professional careers, primarily in speech-language pathology and audiology, which are clinical industries. The department's most significant "industry engagement" comes through its direct preparation for graduate programs, which include extensive clinical practicum and externship opportunities. The on-campus Speech-Language-Hearing Center provides invaluable supervised clinical experience for graduate students, and undergraduates often have opportunities to observe and learn within this setting. The program's rigorous curriculum fulfills many prerequisites for Master's programs in Speech-Language Pathology and Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) programs, which are the gateway to professional licensure. Queens College faculty often have strong connections within the NYC healthcare and educational systems, providing networking opportunities for aspiring clinicians.
Global Perspective: The B.A. in Communication Sciences and Disorders program at Queens College inherently fosters a strong global perspective, particularly given its location. New York City is a global hub with an unparalleled linguistic and cultural diversity, meaning students regularly encounter individuals from diverse language backgrounds with varying communication patterns and potential disorders. The curriculum often addresses topics like multilingualism, cultural influences on communication, and the assessment and treatment of communication disorders in culturally and linguistically diverse populations. Courses like "Multilingualism in the United States" and discussions around differences noted in culturally and linguistically diverse communities further emphasize this global outlook. This exposure prepares graduates to work competently and sensitively with a diverse client base in a globalized world, acknowledging linguistic and cultural variations in communication.
Location
New York City, New York
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 19207
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 61 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 44 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 100.
Queens College, United States of America, is supporting international students through various scholarship opportunities designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement.
Merit-Based Scholarships: Queens College offers a range of merit-based scholarships specifically available to international students. These awards are typically granted based on academic achievement, standardized test scores, and overall potential. Some scholarships are automatically considered during the admissions process, while others may require separate applications.
Queens College Foundation Scholarships: The Queens College Foundation administers several scholarships funded by alumni and donors. These scholarships reward outstanding academic performance and community service. International students are encouraged to explore these opportunities and apply early to maximize their chances of receiving aid.
Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments at Queens College provide scholarships for students excelling in their respective fields. International students can inquire within their chosen department about specialized awards, grants, and assistantships that may be available during their studies.
External Scholarships: Queens College encourages international students to seek external scholarships offered by governments, private organizations, and international education foundations.
Queens College, a vital part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system, offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) that provides a robust academic foundation for students passionate about helping individuals with communication challenges.
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA): This is one of the most direct career paths. SLPAs work under the supervision of licensed Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs), assisting with therapy sessions, preparing materials, documenting client progress, and conducting screenings. This role provides valuable hands-on experience and is a great way to enter the field before or during graduate studies.
Audiology Assistant: Similar to SLPAs, Audiology Assistants support licensed Audiologists by performing routine tasks such as preparing patients for examinations, maintaining equipment, conducting basic hearing screenings, and instructing patients on the use and care of hearing aids.
Special Education Paraprofessional/Assistant: With their understanding of language development and communication disorders, graduates are well-suited to support students with special needs in educational settings. They work alongside special education teachers to implement individualized education plans (IEPs) and provide one-on-one or small group assistance.
Rehabilitation Aide/Technician: In hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or nursing homes, CSD graduates can work as rehabilitation aides, assisting therapists (including SLPs, physical therapists, and occupational therapists) with patient care, exercise programs, and administrative tasks.
Behavioral Therapist/Technician: The knowledge of communication, cognition, and behavior gained in a CSD program can be applied in behavioral therapy settings, particularly with individuals with autism spectrum disorder or other developmental disabilities, helping them improve communication and social skills.
Child Life Specialist (with additional certification): While often requiring a specific certification or master's, a CSD background provides an excellent foundation for a Child Life Specialist, who helps children and families cope with hospitalization, illness, and trauma through play, education, and emotional support, often involving communication strategies.
Early Intervention Assistant: Graduates can work in early intervention programs, assisting professionals who provide services to infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities. Their understanding of early language and communication milestones is highly beneficial.
Patient Care Coordinator/Navigator: In healthcare settings, CSD graduates can serve as patient care coordinators, helping to manage patient appointments, communicate with families, and ensure smooth coordination of services, especially for patients with complex communication needs.
Research Assistant (in CSD or related fields): For those interested in contributing to scientific advancements, opportunities exist as research assistants in university labs or specialized research centers focusing on communication disorders, audiology, linguistics, or cognitive science.
Health Educator/Community Outreach: Graduates can work for public health organizations or non-profits to develop and deliver educational programs related to communication health, hearing conservation, or early identification of communication disorders, engaging with communities to promote awareness and access to services.
