Speech Pathology and Audiology (B.S.)

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Education Program in Speech Pathology and Audiology

Build a foundation in communication sciences and disorders to prepare for graduate study or entry-level careers.

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Speech-Language Pathology (M.S.) Speech Pathology and Audiology (B.S.) Speech Pathology and Audiology Minor Speech and Hearing Clinic

Expand Your Impact in

Speech Pathology & Audiology

The Bachelor of Science in Speech Pathology and Audiology provides a strong academic foundation in human communication and communication disorders. This pre-professional program prepares students for graduate study or entry-level careers in related fields while developing critical thinking, communication, and professional skills.

Degree Type: Bachelor of Science
Total Credits: 120
Outcome: Preparation for graduate study in speech-language pathology or audiology, or entry-level roles in related fields
Format: On-Campus

Program

Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Speech Pathology and Audiology is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the science of human communication and its disorders. This pre-professional program supports students in preparing for graduate education while also opening pathways to related careers in education, healthcare, and community services. Through academic coursework and applied learning experiences, students gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in communication sciences and disorders.

Who This

Program Is For

Future Speech-Language Pathologists or Audiologists
 Students who plan to pursue graduate study and become licensed professionals working with individuals with speech, language, or hearing disorders.

Students Interested in Helping Professions
 Individuals drawn to careers that support communication, learning, and quality of life, including roles in healthcare, education, and rehabilitation.

Future Leaders in Communication Sciences
 Students interested in leadership, advocacy, education, or community-based roles that support individuals with communication disorders and promote access to care.

Aspiring Clinicians & Researchers
 Those planning to pursue graduate study and contribute to clinical practice or research in speech-language pathology, audiology, or related fields.

Career Explorers in Communication Sciences
 Students interested in understanding how communication works and exploring career paths such as speech-language pathology assistant, audiology assistant, or related fields.

What

You’ll Learn

Students develop a comprehensive understanding of human communication and communication disorders while building the academic, analytical, and professional skills needed for graduate study or entry-level roles in related fields.

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Foundations of Human Communication

  • Understand the biological, neurological, and developmental bases of speech, language, and hearing
  • Explore linguistic, social, and cultural influences on communication
  • Analyze typical and disordered communication across the lifespan

Applied Communication & Professional Skills

  • Communicate clinical concepts through professional writing and presentations
  • Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills related to communication disorders
  • Build foundational knowledge of ethical and professional standards

Preparation for Graduate Study & Careers

  • Gain experience with tools, technology, and materials used in the field
  • Apply introductory concepts of assessment and intervention at a pre-professional level
  • Prepare for graduate education and roles aligned with professional standards and practices

Curriculum

Overview

The curriculum is designed to balance foundational science coursework, major-specific communication sciences content, and elective experiences that support career exploration and graduate preparation. Students progress from introductory pre-professional courses into advanced study of communication processes and disorders, building a well-rounded academic foundation.

Program Structure

General Studies (44–48 credits)
 Foundational coursework in sciences, humanities, and social sciences

SPA Required Courses (44 credits)
 Core coursework in speech, language, hearing, and communication disorders

SPA Electives (15 credits)
 Specialized coursework to explore areas of interest within the field

Preferred Electives (13 credits)
 Supporting courses in related areas such as psychology, education, or health

Total Credits: 120

Required Prerequisites Include:

  • SPA 151 – Survey of Communication Disorders
  • SPA 150 – Phonetics
  • SPA 152 – Introduction to Acoustics
  • SPA 156 – Anatomy of Speech and Hearing 

Admission Requirements
To be admitted into the B.S. program, students must:

  • Earn a minimum 3.0 GPA overall
  • Complete all prerequisite SPA courses with a grade of “C” or better
  • Complete general studies requirements
  • Submit an application with supporting materials
  • Successfully complete a background check and drug screening
Four Year Academic Plan in Speech Pathology & Audiology

Career &

Outcomes

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A degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology opens the door to meaningful careers helping individuals communicate and connect with the world around them. Graduates are well-prepared for graduate study leading to licensed professions, as well as entry-level roles in healthcare, education, and community-based settings.

Career Paths Include:

  • Speech-Language Pathologist (with graduate degree and licensure)
  • Audiologist (with graduate degree and licensure)
  • Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA)
  • Audiology Assistant
  • Early Intervention or Rehabilitation Support Specialist
  • Education, healthcare, and community outreach roles

Professional Value
 This program equips students with the academic preparation, communication skills, and professional foundation needed to succeed in graduate school and beyond. Graduates stand out as compassionate, knowledgeable, and career-ready individuals prepared to make a difference in the lives of others.

Program Length
& Format

Time to Completion:
Four years (120 credit hours) for the traditional undergraduate pathway

Delivery Format:
 Primarily in-seat, on-campus instruction with a combination of lectures, discussions, and applied learning experiences.

Accelerated 3+2 Pathway (B.S. + M.S.)
Highly qualified students may be eligible for an accelerated 3+2 pathway, allowing them to complete both a Bachelor of Science in Speech Pathology and Audiology and a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology in approximately five years. This option provides a streamlined path to graduate education and licensure.

Experiential / Applied Learning
Students gain hands-on experience through guided observation and participation in the on-campus Speech and Hearing Clinic, along with course-based activities using assessment tools and technology. These experiences, integrated throughout the curriculum and emphasized in the junior and senior years, allow students to connect classroom learning to real-world clinical settings.

Program Value
Whether following the traditional or accelerated pathway, students benefit from a structured curriculum that combines academic preparation with applied experiences. Graduates are well-prepared for advanced clinical training, graduate education, and future careers in communication sciences and disorders.

Admission

Requirements

Admission to the Speech Pathology and Audiology program is a selective process designed to ensure students are academically prepared for upper-level coursework and future graduate study. The admissions process evaluates readiness for success in a pre-professional program in communication sciences and disorders.

Requirements:
List key eligibility criteria, such as: 

  • Admission to the university
  • Completion of a program-specific application
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
  • Completion of prerequisite and general studies coursework (completed or in progress)
  • Successful completion of background check and drug screening 

Application Deadline: January 21st 

Applicants are reviewed through a departmental admissions committee selection process that considers academic performance, completion of prerequisite coursework, and overall readiness for the program. Qualified applicants may be ranked based on these criteria.

Advisors are available to help students plan prerequisites and prepare strong applications.

Cost, Aid

& Affordability

West Liberty University is committed to delivering a high-quality professional education that remains accessible and affordable.

Tuition & Fees

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Students may be eligible for:

  • Federal and state financial aid
  • Institutional scholarships
  • Program-specific or need-based assistance

Financial aid counselors and academic advisors work closely with students to help them understand costs, explore funding options, and plan for their educational investment.

Why Choose
West Liberty University

The Speech Pathology and Audiology program at West Liberty University provides a strong pre-professional foundation aligned with national standards and expectations for graduate education in communication sciences and disorders. Students benefit from expert faculty, hands-on learning, and a supportive environment designed to prepare them for graduate study and future licensure pathways.

Students benefit from:

  • A comprehensive curriculum aligned with national standards and graduate program expectations
  • Faculty who hold professional licensure and Certificates of Clinical Competence and maintain active clinical experience in the field
  • Small class sizes with personalized instruction and strong student-to-faculty ratios
  • Hands-on learning in the on-campus Speech and Hearing Clinic with access to state-of-the-art equipment
  • Opportunities for professional engagement through student organizations, networking, and community involvement

These elements ensure graduates are well prepared to enter the profession with confidence and credibility.

Steps to

Enrollment

Step 1: Apply to West Liberty University

Step 2: Submit your Speech Pathology and Audiology application

Step 3: Review the advising guide and prepare for enrollment

Admissions counselors and program advisors are here to support you at every step.

Become A
Hilltopper

West Liberty University is a place where you can pursue your dreams and prepare for the future. With more than 60 programs, a vibrant campus life, small classes, and an affordable cost, the quality education you’ll get at West Liberty is like no other.

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