PhD in Communication Disorders and Sciences

How to Apply

The doctoral degree (PhD) in communication disorders and sciences emphasizes advanced knowledge, scholarship, leadership, and clinical competence in the areas of cognitive communication sciences, speech-language acquisition in monolingual and multilingual contexts, and swallowing. The doctoral degree program is designed to meet the needs of students from various backgrounds and to train future scholars in the profession.

Most applicants have a master’s degree in communication disorders and their certificate of clinical competence upon admission, but this is not a requirement.

PhD Handbook

PhD Requirements — Minimum Credits: 81

Title CREDITS
Dissertation research 18
Courses in primary area of specialization 21
Courses in collateral or secondary area 9
Research methodology (6 courses) 18–24
Teaching experience 6
Pre-dissertation research 6
Grant-writing course  

Program Competencies

Program competencies must be completed by each student and represent an individualized collection of the student’s research, scholarly writing, teaching, and service activities.

  • The specific manner in which each student satisfies each competency is developed by the student and their program committee.
  • In general, the specific nature of each competency area program task is based on a consideration of the student’s professional goals and objectives.
  • Any significant deviations from the competency portfolio expectations must be made in writing and approved by the Program Committee.