Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences

Leadership

Travis T. Threats, Ph.D.
     Department Chair
Mitzi Brammer, Ph.D.
     Graduate Program Director
Saneta Thurmon, M.A.
     Undergraduate Program Director

Overview

The goal of Saint Louis University's Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences is to prepare speech-language pathologists to be culturally competent, evidence-based clinicians who provide compassionate clinical services to improve the quality of life of the clients and their families.

SLU's Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences is the second-highest-rated program in the nation at a Catholic university, as well as the highest-rated program in Missouri.

SLU's Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences faculty members have diverse backgrounds and a wide range of research interests including child language and literacy disorders, stuttering, voice disorders, adult neurogenic disorders, memory and cognition in adult populations and aural rehabilitation in persons with cochlear implants.

Our faculty conducts clinically oriented research with both medical and educational areas of emphasis to improve the quality of life of others. All of the faculty members have presented at state, national or international conferences, and several have international recognition.

Travis T. Threats, Ph.D., CCC-SLP - Department Chairperson
Angela Adrian, M.A., CCC-SLP
Mitzi Brammer, Ph.D., CCC-SLP
Emily Buxbaum, M.S., CCC-SLP
Yi-Fang Chiu, Ph.D., CCC-SLP
Maureen Fischer, M.A., CCC-A
Rebecca Frisella, M.S., CCC-SLP
Christina Garms, M.S., CCC-SLP
Julie Hoffman, M.A., CCC-SLP
Robin Murphy, M.S., CCC-SLP
Elizabeth Roepke, Ph.D., CCC-SLP
Sara Steele, Ph.D., CCC-SLP
Saneta Thurmon, Ph.D., CCC-SLP/A
Andrea Vaughan, M.S., CCC-SLP, BCS-S

 

SLHS 1000 - Introduction to Speech, Language & Hearing Sciences

Credit(s): 3 Credits

A survey course designed to provide an introduction to the areas of study and the disciplines involved in communicative disorders, including an overview of communication processes and development as well as speech, language, and hearing disorders. (Offered every Fall and Spring)

Attributes: Social Science Req (A&S)

SLHS 1420 - Deaf Culture and Sign Language

Credit(s): 3 Credits

Discussion of the various aspects of Deaf culture, including the description of deafness, Deaf people, the deaf community as defined by audiological and/or cultural means, services for and by Deaf people and culture as reflected in the arts and language of Deaf people. A look at the history of Deaf culture and an introduction to the manual alphabet and basic signs used in communicating with individuals who are deaf. Open to non-majors.

Attributes: Global Local Justice-Elective

SLHS 2000 - Phonetics

Credit(s): 2 Credits

A study of English phonemes with practice transcribing connected speech including dialectal variations, as well as disordered speech, using the international Phonetic Alphabet. (Offered every Fall)

SLHS 2200 - Anatomy and Physiology of the Speech Mechanism

Credit(s): 3 Credits

A study of the anatomical and physiological aspects of the speech mechanism. (offered every spring)

SLHS 2400 - Foundations of Language

Credit(s): 3 Credits

An Introduction to linguistic theories focusing on the rule systems of language, language development, language difference, dialects and language change across time.

SLHS 3000 - Cultural Linguistic Diversity

Credit(s): 3 Credits

Course Purpose: Students will examine characteristics of linguistic and cultural diversity across the United States and beyond. Course content emphasizes issues of communication associated with race, ethnicity, gender, socio-economic status, age, physical and mental capacities, environment (e.g. rural vs. urban), religion, and sexual orientation. These issues are considered through rigorous linguistic inquiry, with an aim towards promoting harmonious interactions, health equity, and social justice as relevant to the healthcare profession. Students will conduct sociolinguistic research investigating individuals or groups linguistically within social systems.

Prerequisite(s): SLHS 2000; SLHS 2400*

* Concurrent enrollment allowed.

Attributes: Global Local Justice-Elective, Medical Humanities, UUC:Identities in Context, Urban Poverty - Health Care

SLHS 3200 - Speech & Hearing Science

Credit(s): 3 Credits

A study of the physiological, acoustic, and perceptual aspects of speech. (Offered every fall)

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a program in Speech, Lang, Hearing Sci.

SLHS 3700 - Speech and Language Development

Credit(s): 3 Credits

A study of the typical development of speech and language across the lifespan. Issues related to linguistic and cultural diversity will be explored.

Prerequisite(s): SLHS 2000; SLHS 2400*

* Concurrent enrollment allowed.

SLHS 4050 - Research Seminar

Credit(s): 1 Credit

Investigation of methods of inquiry learned in the COPS Level 2 course. Interested students may apply and be admitted through a selection process based on faculty recommendation.

SLHS 4060 - Research Practicum

Credit(s): 1 Credit (Repeatable for credit)

This individualized course is the second part of a two-semester senior research capstone. Students will be able to synthesize, integrate, and critically evaluate knowledge and skills from the discipline in the form of a capstone project that incorporates a values-oriented connection to service within the community. A variety of formal and informal writing assignments can be expected for students involving multiple stages of revisions. Students will be expected to analyze and synthesize material from a variety of sources appropriate to evidence based practice in the field of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology.

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a program in Comm Sciences Disorders.

Attributes: UUC:Writing Intensive

SLHS 4150 - Survey of Speech & Language Disorders

Credit(s): 3 Credits

Speech and language disorders may arise from a variety of causes and may affect individuals of any age, from birth through geriatric age. This course will investigate etiologies, characteristics, developmental, and linguistic/cultural correlates of speech and language disorders across the lifespan.

Prerequisite(s): SLHS 3700

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a program in Speech, Lang, Hearing Sci.

SLHS 4200 - Audiology: Basic Audiometry

Credit(s): 3 Credits

An introduction to various causes of hearing loss and comprehensive audiological evaluation procedures across the life span. (offered every fall)

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a program in Speech, Lang, Hearing Sci.

SLHS 4300 - Clinical Methods

Credit(s): 3 Credits

An introduction to clinical service provision, including principles and procedures in diagnostics and intervention that essential in the field of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology. Students will practice and improve varied professional writing (i.e.SOAP notes, Treatment Plans, Lesson Plans, Diagnostic Reports, etc.) to ensure success in their careers after graduation. Students are given information and tools to improve their applications, resumes and personal statements to increase their graduate school prospects and careers in this course.

Prerequisite(s): (CORE 1500, CORE 1500, CORE 1500, CORE 1500, CORE 1500, CORE 1500, and CORE 1500)

Corequisite(s): SLHS 4350

Attributes: UUC:Self in the World

SLHS 4350 - Professional Writing & Documentation for the SLP and AuD

Credit(s): 1 Credit

This course provides students with an introduction to the clinical skills through supervised observation and related clinical practice, such as intervention techniques and professional documentation. Students apply their knowledge and are evaluated on professional writing in reflection papers, SOAP notes, and goal writing projects. Students will complete the department required 25 observation for graduation in this course. (Offered in Fall)

Corequisite(s): SLHS 4300

SLHS 4400 - Aural Rehabilitation

Credit(s): 3 Credits

A study of hearing aids and other amplification systems, cochlear implants, speech reading, and auditory training. Habilitative and rehabilitative strategies for individuals with hearing impairment will be discussed.

SLHS 4500 - Neurological Basis of Communication

Credit(s): 3 Credits

A study of neurological development and function related to speech, language, and hearing.

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a program in Speech, Lang, Hearing Sci.

SLHS 4600 - Advanced Audiology

Credit(s): 2 Credits

A study of pediatric audiology, electrophysiology measures, behavioral hearing assessment related to developmental level, immittance audiometry and testing for auditory processing disorders.

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a program in Speech, Lang, Hearing Sci.

SLHS 4650 - Counseling

Credit(s): 2 Credits

This course will provide a framework of the counseling skills for speech-language pathologist and audiologists while considering the ethics of counseling and some factors that must be kept in mind when interacting with clients and family members. Psychological theories, interviewing skills, and the therapeutic process will be discussed as well as how to apply these to enhance client interactions. Students will collaborate effectively with others on team projects, such as evaluating and implementing counseling techniques in case study projects. Students will learn to understand conflict management with clients and refer to appropriate professionals as needed.

Prerequisite(s): CORE 1000; CORE 1500*

* Concurrent enrollment allowed.

Attributes: UUC:Collaborative Inquiry

SLHS 4700 - Clinical Practicum

Credit(s): 1 Credit (Repeatable for credit)

This course will provide an introduction to clinical skills and an opportunity to learn about related clinical practice. Students enrolled in section-01 will participate in a weekly lecture and simulation case study activities while working with co-clinicians. The standardized patient simulation includes multiple components for cases, from case history to diagnostics to treatment recommendations and referrals. The students are able to use these cases in this course to develop lesson plans, write SOAP notes and self-reflect on their clinical skills. Students enrolled in section-02 may participate in supervised clinical practicum experiences including assessment and remediation of a hearing disorders.

Prerequisite(s): SLHS 4300

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a program in Speech, Lang, Hearing Sci.

Attributes: UUC:Reflection-in-Action

SLHS 4750 - Neurobases of Communication

Credit(s): 3 Credits

A study of neurological development and function related to speech, language, and hearing.

Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a classification of Senior.

Enrollment is limited to students with a program in Speech, Lang, Hearing Sci.

SLHS 4800 - Senior Seminar

Credit(s): 2 Credits

This course provides the opportunity for students to complete and present a capstone project that synthesizes this Department's undergraduate learning outcomes. Students will evaluate and integrate theories, research methods, and applications of CSDI coursework by incorporating a values-oriented connection to community service into their culminating projects. These will be presented to the Department and invited members of the University in order for students to showcase their creative, analytical, and ethical reasoning capacities to effectively address urgent contemporary and future healthcare and social justice needs across the lifespan and across culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a classification of Senior.

Enrollment is limited to students with a program in Comm Sciences Disorders.

Attributes: UUC:Writing Intensive

SLHS 4900 - Speech Sound Disorders Assessment & Treatment

Credit(s): 2 Credits

This course will discuss assessment and treatment of speech sound disorders covering current trends in assessment and clinical practice. Brief review of etiology, characteristics and impact of selected speech sound disorders in children and adults will be discussed. Students will engage in advanced analysis of vowels and consonants in various segments using phonetic transcription. Complex studies will allow for clinical application of assessment and treatment. Dialectal variation and its effect on speech sound disorders will also be discussed. The course will focus on children yet also cover issues with speech sound disorders across the life span.

Prerequisite(s): SLHS 2000; SLHS 4300

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a program in Speech, Lang, Hearing Sci.

SLHS 5010 - Foundations of Contemporary Clinical Practice

Credit(s): 1 Credit (Repeatable up to 5 credits)

This course is a component of the overall Clinical Practicum experience designed to address non-academic issues presented in a seminar format. Classes are designed to supplement direct client intervention relative to professional issues that impact provision of diagnostic and therapeutic services across the lifespan of individuals with communication disorders.

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a program in Speech, Lang, Hearing Sci.

SLHS 5011 - Clinical Laboratory

Credit(s): 1 Credit (Repeatable for credit)

This team-taught course addresses clinical learning and application of knowledge in evaluation and treatment in the context of varying practice areas. There is an emphasis on exposure to hands-on and practical learning experiences including but not limited to: use of various evaluation tools, specialized instrumentation, communication devices (high and low tech), use of simulation, case studies and group learning modules. Student may not be enrolled in any undergraduate coursework.

SLHS 5012 - Practicum - Campus Clinic

Credit(s): 1 Credit (Repeatable for credit)

Clinical practicum CSDI-5012 is a hands-on experience which addresses screenings, diagnostics, treatment and counseling for children or adults presenting with a variety of speech-language disabilities or diagnoses in the areas of articulation, hearing, language and social aspects. The setting for the experience is the Saint Louis University Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic, which includes some school and Head Start opportunities. (Offered every Fall, Spring and Summer)

Prerequisite(s): SLHS 5010

SLHS 5015 - Practicum - Offsite Clinic

Credit(s): 1-2 Credits (Repeatable for credit)

Clinical practicum CSDI 5015 is a direct clinical experience which addresses screenings, diagnostics, treatment and counseling for children and/or adults presenting with a variety of speech-language disabilities or diagnoses in the areas of speech, language, hearing, swallowing and social aspects. Students assigned to CSDI 5015 will be placed in off campus clinical settings with an ASHA-certified clinician serving as their clinical supervisor.

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a program in Speech-Language Path.

SLHS 5050 - Research for the Clinician

Credit(s): 2 Credits

Statistics is recommended. This course is designed to assist graduate students in reading, understanding and critically evaluating research in speech-language pathology. Aids students in developing, designing and writing their own experimental and clinical research proposals.

SLHS 5100 - Counseling for Speech Language Pathology

Credit(s): 2 Credits (Repeatable for credit)

An overview of counseling principles and procedures related to speech language pathology and audiology. This course provides the opportunity for students to apply counseling strategies and research methods to a variety of case studies.

SLHS 5450 - Speech Sound Disorders in Children

Credit(s): 3 Credits (Repeatable for credit)

A study of theories of phonological development and disorders and current diagnostic and therapeutic techniques.

SLHS 5510 - Social Communication Development and Disorders

Credit(s): 2 Credits (Repeatable up to 3 credits)

Social Skills are integrally intertwined with communication skills and are essential for academic and professional success. This course will include discussions of the neurological bases, environmental factors, early connections to language and literacy, and a discussion of the communication disorders that may demonstrate difficulties in social communication. Assessment and management strategies will be demonstrated and described.

SLHS 5520 - Pediatric Dysphagia

Credit(s): 2 Credits

This course provides an overview of the nature, etiology, and physiology of normal and pathophysiological patterns of swallowing in pediatrics. Students will learn how to plan and implement a clinical swallow evaluation and instrumental swallowing evaluations will be thoroughly discussed and examined. Evidence-based treatment of feeding and swallowing disorders in infants and children within various clinical settings will be discussed. Clinical decision making related to the patient with dysphagia will be emphasized along with patient/family focused care and a multi-disciplinary approach. The course content will be presented via lecture, video review, case studies, online simulation, and discussion.

SLHS 5530 - Augmentative and Alternative Communication

Credit(s): 2 Credits

An overview of augmentative and alternative communication modes, techniques and symbol systems, as well as assessment and intervention strategies.

SLHS 5550 - Early Childhood Language Disorders

Credit(s): 3 Credits

A focus on theoretically-based functional practices in the assessment and intervention of language disorders in children from birth to eight years.

SLHS 5560 - School-Age Language Disorders

Credit(s): 3 Credits

A focus on theoretically-based functional practices in the assessment and intervention of language-learning disorders in school-age children and youth.

SLHS 5580 - Language Based Literacy Disorders

Credit(s): 2 Credits

This course will focus on the study of literacy development and disorders in school- age children with language impairment. Includes assessment and intervention practices for reading, spelling, and writing.

SLHS 5600 - Fluency Disorders

Credit(s): 3 Credits

An overview of normal fluency and exploration of fluency disorders. Specific focus on the nature, assessment, and treatment of stuttering.

SLHS 5630 - Dysphagia

Credit(s): 3 Credits

A study of the anatomy, physiology, evaluation and treatment of swallowing and associated disorders.

SLHS 5700 - Voice Disorders

Credit(s): 3 Credits

This course provides an in-depth anatomic, physiologic, and neurologic information for students to understand and identify the mechanisms underlying voice production. The pathophysiology, causes, assessment, and treatment of various voice disorders will be addressed. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have sufficient level of knowledge of voice disorders for entry level supervised practicum or clinical fellowships (CFY) and/or advanced study in the area of voice disorders.

SLHS 5710 - Cleft Palate and Craniofacial Anomalies

Credit(s): 2 Credits

A study of the nature, etiology, physiological and psychological aspects and ramifications of cleft palate.

SLHS 5720 - Neurogenic Communication Disorders in Adults

Credit(s): 3 Credits

A study of the nature, etiology, physiological and psychological aspects of aphasia and motor speech disorders.

SLHS 5760 - Motor Speech Disorders

Credit(s): 3 Credits

A study of the nature, etiology, physiological and psychological aspects of acquired motor speech disorders.

SLHS 5770 - Multilingual Communication Disorders

Credit(s): 2 Credits

Issues and methodologies in definition, diagnosis and treatment of communication disorders of persons from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

SLHS 5800 - Professional Issues in Speech-Language Pathology

Credit(s): 2 Credits (Repeatable for credit)

Taken in the last semester of study. This course focuses on the business, legal and ethical issues that impinge on clinical practice in speech-language pathology. Emphasis is placed on the administrative aspects of service delivery pertaining to private practice, clinics and hospital-based programs.

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a program in Speech-Language Path.

SLHS 5820 - Cognitive Communication Disorders

Credit(s): 3 Credits

A study of the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of cognitive communication disorders due to traumatic brain injury and dementia.

SLHS 5880 - Advanced Audiology

Credit(s): 2 Credits

A study of pediatric audiology, electrophysiology measures, behavioral hearing assessment related to development level, immittance audiometry and testing for auditory processing disorders.

SLHS 5910 - Clinical Externship

Credit(s): 6 Credits (Repeatable for credit)

A required course taken in the last semester of the program involving full-time clinical placement in an off-campus site. Emphasis of this course is the integration of academic knowledge and clinical skills in a professional setting.

SLHS 5930 - Special Topics

Credit(s): 1-3 Credits (Repeatable for credit)

Special Topics in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences.

SLHS 5950 - Special Study for Exams

Credit(s): 0 Credits (Repeatable for credit)

Special Study for Exams.

SLHS 5960 - Essay/Project Guidance

Credit(s): 0 Credits (Repeatable for credit)

Essay/Project Guidance.

SLHS 5970 - Research Topics

Credit(s): 1-3 Credits (Repeatable for credit)

Permission of Instructor of department chair required.

SLHS 5980 - Independent Study

Credit(s): 1-3 Credits (Repeatable up to 6 credits)

Independent Study.

SLHS 5990 - Thesis Research

Credit(s): 0-6 Credits (Repeatable for credit)

Permission of department chair required.