Job outlook
98%
of College of Health and Human Services graduates working full time have a job related to their degree
98%
of College of Health and Human Services undergraduate students had instructors who made them excited about learning
95%
of College of Health and Human Services graduates participated in experience-driven learning
Pursue a B.S. in Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences
The Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences program introduces you to the biological, physical and social processes involved in communication and hearing. You'll study speech production, language development, hearing science and communication disorders while building the analytical and scientific skills needed to understand how people communicate. The curriculum provides a strong academic foundation for students planning to pursue graduate education in speech-language pathology, audiology and related fields. Throughout the program, you'll learn how communication and hearing affect quality of life, education, healthcare and social participation.
The bachelor’s degree in speech, language and hearing sciences was designed to prepare you for graduate programs in audiology and speech-language pathology. But beyond grad school, this program’s foundation in communication sciences will give you a knowledge base rooted in basic science and communication diversity that can open up possibilities in a number of different career fields, including direct employment as an audiology assistant/technician.
What you'll learn
You'll study speech and language development, anatomy and physiology of speech and hearing mechanisms, phonetics, audiology and communication disorders. Coursework explores the scientific principles that support communication while helping you understand the challenges individuals may experience across different stages of life. You'll also develop critical thinking, research and professional communication skills that prepare you for advanced study and careers in healthcare, education and human services. Observation and experiential learning opportunities help connect classroom concepts to professional practice.
Clinical education
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I was honored to receive the John “Mick” Hanley Endowed Scholarship, as it has been incredibly beneficial during my financial hardships. Without it, I would not have been able to participate in the clinical experiences required for my internship, which have provided me with invaluable knowledge and growth.
Where you'll be after graduation
Many graduates continue into master's and doctoral programs in speech-language pathology, audiology and related communication sciences disciplines. The program provides the academic foundation needed for advanced professional training while also preparing students for careers in healthcare, education, research and human services settings. Graduates leave with a strong understanding of communication processes, scientific inquiry and evidence-based practice.
Career pathways
- Speech-Language Pathology (graduate education required)
- Audiology (graduate education required)
- Communication Sciences Research
- Hearing and Speech Support Services
- Healthcare and Rehabilitation Services
- Educational Support Services
- Graduate Study in Communication Sciences and Disorders
Making the most of your learning experience
Your learning extends beyond the classroom through observation experiences, faculty mentorship and opportunities to engage with communication sciences in real-world settings. These experiences help you connect scientific concepts to clinical practice while strengthening your understanding of communication and hearing disorders. Faculty advisors work closely with students to identify coursework, experiences and opportunities that align with individual career goals and graduate school aspirations. Through these experiences, you'll build a strong foundation for future professional success.
Honors program
If you are a member of the Lee Honors College or if you meet academic requirements listed below, you can join the honors program for undergraduate majors in the Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences. Contact our undergraduate advisor for more information or with questions about the requirements.
Academic requirements for the honors program:
- Completion of a minimum of 40 semester hours
- A minimum university GPA of 3.5
What scholarships are available for the Bachelor of Science in Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences?
Additional admission requirements
Students who wish to major in Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences will declare the pre-Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences (SLHP) major at the time of admission to the University. Declaring the pre-SLHS (SLHP) major does not guarantee admission to the Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences major. Information necessary for admission includes the following documents:
- Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences Undergraduate Application
- College-level transcripts from any institutions other than Western Michigan University
All applications are submitted to the undergraduate advisor of the Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences. The deadline for submitting applications is February 1 of each year. Selection of candidates is based on the following criteria:
- Minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5 for all coursework after high school
- Grade in an introductory course in communication disorders, and/or demonstrated familiarity with the field and grades in required non-departmental coursework (college-level writing course, college-level biology/anatomy course, college-level general physics course, required math course, college-level statistics course)
- Students must be advised by the College of Health and Human Services undergraduate department advisor prior to application.
