Speech-Language Pathology (M.S.)

This course is the first supervised clinical speech-language pathology experience in the graduate degree program. Students enrolled in this course complete requirements through a clinical assignment in the La Salle University Speech-Language-Hearing Community Clinics (LSU-SLHCC). Students are supervised by an ASHA certified speech-language pathologist. In this unique practicum setting, student clinicians apply theoretical knowledge, develop clinical management skills, develop self-analysis and evaluation abilities, and become familiar with professional issues in the discipline. Emphasis is placed on selection and administration of diagnostic instruments. Students write reports and daily progress notes and conduct family/patient counseling. Students may have the opportunity to communicate with other health care and educational professionals as needed. 

This course explores the nature and treatment of language disorders in young children, from birth to age six. Theoretical approaches are combined with hands-on application to provide a comprehensive overview of assessment and intervention across key language domains and developmental stages. Students will engage in real world case studies, analysis of current research, diagnostic reasoning, and the development of evidence-based intervention plans for home, school, and community settings. Diagnostic information including language sampling, stages of emergent literacy, and stages of play are discussed in relation to early intervention. 

This course provides an overview of acquired language disorders. Neuropathology, symptomatology, and speech-language rehabilitation of individuals with aphasia, traumatic brain injury, right-hemisphere disorders, dementia, and related cognitive-communication disorders are examined. Theoretical models in the evaluation and treatment of acquired language disorders are discussed and contrasted.