Sample Curriculum

First Year – Fall

SAR SH531: Introduction to Speech, Language, Hearing Sciences

Introduction to various speech and language disorders found across linguistically and culturally diverse populations. Characteristics underlying biological systems and methods for evaluation and treating a variety or communication disorders are examined. Exploration of the professions of speech pathology and audiology. Effective Fall 2021, this course fulfills a single unit in each of the following BU Hub areas: Oral and/or Signed Communication, Teamwork/Collaboration. (Credits: 4)

First Year – Spring

And one of the following:

SAR SH524: Language Acquisition

This course will focus on first language acquisition in infancy and childhood. We will cover the progression of language development in each of the traditional areas of linguistic analysis: phonology, semantics, syntax, and pragmatics. The course will be focused on experimental research in typical language acquisition and on different theories that strive to explain the underlying cognitive and linguistic mechanisms at work in an early learner. (Credits: 4)

Sophomore Year – Fall

SAR SH522: Anatomy and Physiology of the Speech Mechanism

Study of the physiological structures and functions that underlie speech production. Emphasis is placed on the respiratory, phonatory, and articulatory systems. Introduction to neuroanatomy and neural control of the production of speech as well as dysfunction of these normal processes in clinical disorders is included. (Credits: 4)

Sophomore Year – Spring

SAR SH221: Phonetics

Phonetics is the science of the sounds of speech, including how they are produced, perceived, and classified. In this course, students will develop competence in perceiving and classifying the segmental and suprasegmental patterns of American English. Students will master the International Phonetic Alphabet for broad and narrow transcription of vowels, consonants, and connected speech. Classroom and lab-based activities will develop listening and transcription skills for analyzing individual differences in dialect and accent, phonological development, and disordered speech. (Credits: 4)

Junior Year – Fall

CAS Linguistics elective

Junior Year – Spring

CAS Linguistics elective

Senior Year – Fall

CAS Linguistics or SAR SLHS elective

Senior Year – Spring

SAR SH505: Introduction to Speech Sound Disorders

Undergraduate Prerequisites: SAR SH 221 and SH 524 - This course provides an overview of current models of normal and disordered phonological development. Students examine and practice evidenced-based principles and practical applications of assessment, analysis, diagnosis, and remediation approaches and procedures to facilitate critical thinking and problem-solving abilities to apply to working with individuals with a variety of phonological disorders (Credits: 4)

And

SAR SH547: Introduction to the Clinical Process I

Undergraduate Prerequisites: SAR SH221, SH524, and SH531, or consent of instructor. - This course is designed to prepare speech-language pathology students to enter into clinical practicum. Students will study theories of clinical process through guided observation experiences, culminating to a final mini-practicum experience. As part of this course, students will complete the ASHA requirement of 25 clinical observation hours. (Credits: 4)

SAR SH642: Senior Seminar

Undergraduate Prerequisites: SLHS & LX Major and Minor only; senior status - The goal of this capstone seminar is to provide SLHS students with knowledge and skills in professionalism and the application of different types of evidence as a basis for practice in a variety of clinical and research settings. The course involves internships related to the disciplines of speech language and hearing sciences and is for students in their final year of these majors. (Credits: 2)