Degree Highlights
- Build a strong foundation in diagnosing and treating speech-language disorders with guidance from experienced faculty.
- Understand normal language development and identify abnormalities relevant to the communications field.
- Gain comprehensive knowledge in communication disorders.
- Enjoy the flexibility of online learning, studying at your convenience while benefiting from supportive professors dedicated to your success.
For over 30 years, Montreat College’s School of Adult and Graduate Studies has empowered students to acquire essential skills, complete their degrees, and advance their careers. Montreat offers undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs both in the classroom and online.
How soon can I start?
With six start dates a year for most programs you have the flexibility to start when makes the most sense for you. Chances are we have classes starting in the near future, providing you the opportunity to move forward with your academic goals. Please see the admissions page for specific enrollment and start dates.
What are the admissions requirements?
Applicants must submit the following for admissions consideration:
- Montreat College Application for Admission
- Official, final transcripts of all college courses taken*
- Overall grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale or higher in all previous college work attempted.
- Official, final high school transcript or its equivalent (if transferring less than 12 semester credits of college credit)*
- American Council on Education (ACE) verification demonstrating any eligible CLEP and DSST examinations, and non-collegiate military training.
*All final transcripts must include graduation information
Apply for admission today!
What are the program requirements?
The program requirements can be found in the academic catalog.
Start your success story at Montreat.
Why Communication Sciences and Disorders?
Montreat College’s Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders is designed for students aiming to become registered Speech-Language Pathologist Assistants or pursue further education. This program equips students with the skills to understand the complexities and science of communication.
Growth Potential
0%
Job Market Growth
(2016-2026)
(2016-2026)
$0
Average annual salary
U.S. Bureau for Labor Statistics (BLS) Estimates
Career Opportunities
Cost-conscious
commitment
Financing college can be intimidating, which is why we’ve developed programs and opportunities to help you.
Why Montreat?
At Montreat College, we understand the unique challenges adult learners face. That's why we've created a program that empowers you to balance work, family, and education without compromising your career ambitions.
Flexible scheduling
Our classes are conveniently scheduled, so you can earn your degree while still meeting your daily commitments.
Supportive community
Join a close-knit community of experienced faculty who are dedicated to your success. As an AGS student, you're part of the Montreat family.
Affordable tuition
We are committed to making a Christ-centered education as affordable as possible, so you can achieve your educational goals. That’s why Montreat College tuition is nearly 25% lower than the national average for private colleges and universities.
Relevant programs
Montreat College offers a wide range of degree programs and certificates in fields such as Business Administration, Education, Counseling, and more. Our programs are designed to align with industry trends and provide you with the skills employers are seeking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to complete the online Communication Science and Disorders Degree program?
A Bachelor’s Degree is 120 credit hours and can take one to four years to complete depending upon the amount of credits you transfer in. Montreat College endorses the North Carolina Comprehensive Articulation Agreement, which can be viewed at www.northcarolina.edu. Transfer students who have earned the Associate in Arts or Associate in Science degree from a North Carolina Community College and who meet the minimum requirements for admission to Montreat College will receive transfer credit for all eligible courses subject to normal transfer credit policy. No more than 66 semester hours may be transferred from two-year accredited collegiate institutions. The maximum number of undergraduate credits that may transfer from other 4-year accredited collegiate institutions is 90 semester credits. For a full explanation of the evaluation of transfer credit, please refer to page 23 of Montreat’s Academic Catalog.
To be considered full time, an undergraduate student should be enrolled in a minimum of 48 weeks (16 per semester) of instructional time and a minimum of 36 credit hours (12 per term) attempted. For a full explanation of the Academic Year Definition, please refer to page 37 of Montreat’s Academic Catalog.
How much does the Communication Sciences and Disorders degree program cost?
Montreat College programs are competitively priced, and we offer multiple forms of financial aid to help you achieve your educational goals. Please see the current AGS Tuition and Fees page here. Also, please keep in mind that there are multiple college and government financial aid programs available to help mitigate the cost of your education. You can learn more about your financial aid options.
What are the length of online courses?
All courses are eight-week sessions. There are 2 sessions in a semester. To be considered a full-time undergraduate student, a student must take 12 credit hours per semester. For the 12 credit hours, the student must take 2 courses (6 credit hours) the first eight-week session and 2 courses (6 credit hours) the second eight-week session. Semesters in this program are Spring, Summer, and Fall.
What jobs can you pursue with a Communication Sciences and Disorders degree?
- Audiologists
- Speech Language Educator (Speech Communication)
- Speech Therapist
- Children’s Hearing Specialist
- Registered Speech Language Pathology Assistants (SPLA)
- Audiology Assistants
What is the job market like for people with Communication Sciences and Disorders degree?
The regional outlook is strong, with 16.31% job growth expected over the next 10 years, compared to 11.7% job growth, nationally. The market demand for graduates of Communication Sciences and Disorders/SLPA degrees is evident.
How much money do Communication Sciences and Disorders professionals typically make?
The average regional salary of graduates from this type of program is $51,698 and nationally $51,061.
What graduate programs this degree prepare me to apply for?
A Masters in or Doctor of Speech Language Pathology, or a Master’s or Doctor in Audiology.
What is the complete rate for the Communication Sciences and Disorders degree program?
The first graduating class will be in December 2023 with 4 students graduating. Another 2 students will graduate in May. Four of the 6 already have SLPA jobs.
What courses will I study?
BCSD2000 Introduction to Communication Sciences and Disorders
This course investigates application of biology, physics, anatomy, physiology, and cognitive psychology to processes of speech, language, and hearing. Students will investigate the nature of disruptions to normal communication and scientific principles of prevention, diagnosis, and plan remediation. (3 credits)
BCSD2110 Ethics and Standards for SLPAs
This course provides an overview of the theory, practice, and philosophy of speech-language pathology assisting. Topics include legal and ethical issues, scope of practice, multiculturalism, and diversity. Upon completion, students will be able to describe characteristics of the profession and identify components of safe and ethical practice within the work of speech language pathology. (3 credits)
BCSD4050 Acquired Disorders and Disorders of Voice, Fluency, and Swallowing
Anatomy and physiology associated with the vocal mechanism and swallowing function, with emphasis on normal and abnormal processes of voice, fluency and swallowing. Assessment and treatment principles of functional, organic and neurological voice pathologies, and dysphagia will be addressed, as well as basic principles of stuttering diagnosis and therapy. (3 credits)
BCSD2050 Applied Phonetics
A study of the International Phonetic Alphabet and its application to speech and hearing sciences. Includes an introduction to acoustic theory and spectrographic analysis of speech. Skill is developed in transcription of both normal and disordered speech in children and adults. (3 credits)
BCSD3040 Assistive Technology
This course introduces the preparation, use, and maintenance of selected communication equipment in the treatment of respective disorders. Emphasis is placed on the collaborative use of assistive equipment for speech, language, and hearing disorders. Upon completion, students will be able to instruct the patient and caregiver in the use and maintenance of assistive communication equipment. (2 credits)
BCSD3300 Normal Language Development
A comprehensive look at the normal development of speech and language in the child; includes the areas of language prerequisite skills, phonology, morphology, semantics, syntax and pragmatics. (3 credits)
BCSD3200 Child Language Disorders
A study of the factors contributing to the development of disordered speech and language. Includes traditional and more recent classification systems and a survey of characteristic disorders. Introduction to methods of evaluation and therapy. (3 credits)
BCSD2150 Treatment Intervention
This course introduces students to a multitude of intervention techniques used to treat individuals of all ages with communication disorders in a variety of clinical settings. Emphasis is placed on understanding the therapeutic process and the effectiveness of evidence-based practices currently being used in the field of speech and language across the lifespan. Upon completion, students will be able to demonstrate competencies in the therapeutic process. (3 credits)
BCSD3100 Anatomical and Physiological Bases of Speech
This course introduces the basic pathophysiology of the orofacial and thoracic structures of the human body. Emphasis is placed on the most treated speech, language, and hearing disorders. Upon completion, students should be able to identify and describe basic pathophysiology related to the production of speech and hearing. (3 credits)
BCSD3150 Introduction to Audiology
This course explores the science of hearing and disorders related to audiology. A foundational understanding of the evaluation, conservation, and aural rehabilitation of individuals with hearing disorders is established. (3 credits)
BCSD3700 Artic and Phonology
A survey of phonological development, and characteristics of articulation and phonology disorders. Discussion of etiologies, assessment, and management of these disorders is included. (3 credits)
BCSD3010 Speech Science
Theory of speech perception and hearing, using concepts of physics, anatomy, and physiology. Clinical applications and management strategies for specific speech and hearing disorders will also be addressed. (3 credits)
BCSD4100 Fieldwork 1
Students observe and write reports on a total of 25 hours of therapy and/or diagnostic sessions in the areas of speech-language pathology and audiology. (2 credits)
BCSD4150 Fieldwork 2
Practical clinical skills of previously studied theories in the assessment, intervention, and documentation of speech-language pathology will be addressed in the field. Students will conduct direct and simulated patient evaluation and intervention through in person, Simucase, Master Clinician Network, and teletherapy. Direct patient contact hours will be obtained in this course and can be applied toward ASHA certification. (2 credits)
BCSD4400 Becoming a Professional in Speech and Hearing Sciences
This course provides students with an understanding of Communication Science Disorders (CSD) in Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences to career paths within communication disorders, such as Speech Language Pathology Assistants, Speech Language Pathologists, Audiologist, as well as other disciplines. The focus of this course is to prepare students for the workplace or for applying to graduate school and determining which factors are critical for success in professional programs and beyond. Students will also develop plans for alternative career paths, in order to remain adaptable after graduation. (3 credits)