Communication sciences and disorders majors at UVM study the form and structure of speech and language, and how speech and language skills are learned, produced, perceived and understood. We offer the only program in the state of Vermont that prepares students to become speech-language pathologists (SLPs).

Connecting Liberal Arts, Health, and Education

Unique to our department is the degree of cooperative work undertaken by students and faculty in the study and practice of basic and clinical sciences and in their application to people in need of help with communication, the most human of all behaviors.

Mission 

The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders prepares professionals for meaningful careers in speech-language pathology, audiology, and related fields. Through exceptional research and education, we will create and apply new knowledge and evidence-based practices in inclusive and supportive learning environments while fostering a sense of belonging for all. 

Vision​

Advancing communication so everyone is a part of the conversation, through:​

  • Preparing students to be critical thinkers and to apply evidence-based practice
  • Providing exemplary opportunities to participate in research and scholarship
  • Creating opportunities for interprofessional and community collaboration
  • Expanding and fostering a diverse academic community 

The core values of the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders are caring, collaboration, compassion, connectedness, and family. These values shape our day-to-day actions and interactions as well as our mission and goals. Our mission is advancing communication so everyone is heard. Our goals focus on (1) increasing opportunities and reducing disparities for our students, clients, faculty, staff, and community, (2) creating and disseminating new knowledge through exceptional research and education, and (3) inspiring future leaders to be agents for positive change. These goals impact everything we do, including our undergraduate and graduate curricula, the extra-curricular activities that we offer to students (community service, Speech & Hearing Club, Peer Mentoring, CSD Honors Society, etc.), research, clinical services, and outreach to the community.

Graduate student with client in Luse Center

The Eleanor M. Luse Center for Communication

UVM's Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders features The Eleanor M. Luse center, an on-campus speech-language pathology and audiology clinic that serves as a primary training center for graduate students.

Eleanor M. Luse Center
Students in conversation

Comprehensive Coursework

UVM provides an extensive curriculum covering an introduction to both normal and disordered communication, the fields of speech-language pathology and audiology, as well as the health sciences.
Dr. Tiffany Hutchins teaches a class

Hands-On Practice

Through hands-on practice, you will develop skills and experience by participating in guided observations of speech-language pathology and audiology at the on-campus Eleanor M. Luse Center for Communication: Speech, Language, and Hearing.
Dr. Emily Coderre in the speech lab

Foundation for Graduate Study

Many students choose to further their education by pursuing a master's degree in speech-language pathology or audiology. The University of Vermont offers an Early Admission Master's Program for eligible students.

Undergraduate Programs

Graduate Programs