Curriculum
The Speech-Language Pathology Leveling courses (SLP-L) curriculum prepares students to meet the prerequisites to apply to graduate speech-language pathology programs, positioning them for success in graduate studies and future careers as speech-language pathologists.
Content and dates are subject to change.
Courses
Code
Course
Credits
SLP 551Phonetics and Phonology3
SLP 552Speech and Hearing Science3
This course explores the physical properties of sound and their measurement as they relate to speech and hearing processes. Students examine psychoacoustic principles and the perception of acoustic signals by the auditory system. The course introduces fundamental concepts in audiological assessment and instrumentation. Students analyze cultural factors that influence the perception of hearing loss and affect access to hearing services across diverse populations.
SLP 553Language Development Across the Lifespan3
This course examines typical language acquisition from infancy through adolescence. Students analyze the cognitive, social, and biological factors that influence language development across the lifespan. The course explores cultural and linguistic diversity in language acquisition, particularly emphasizing bilingual and multilingual development. Students evaluate research on language milestones and apply this knowledge to distinguish between typical variations and potential disorders in diverse populations.
SLP 554Speech and Language Disorders Across the Lifespan3
This course comprehensively examines communication disorders throughout the human lifespan, integrating developmental and acquired disorders within a unified framework. Content and dates are subject to change. Students will explore the nature, assessment, and treatment of speech and language disorders from early childhood through late adulthood while examining the impact of cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic factors on service delivery and outcomes.
SLP 555Anatomy and Physiology for the Speech-Language Pathologist 3
This course comprehensively explores the anatomical and physiological foundations critical to speech, language, and swallowing processes. Students will develop a deep understanding of the biological systems underlying human communication, integrating structural, functional, and clinical perspectives essential for speech-language pathology practice.
SLP 556Foundations of Audiology and Aural Rehabilitation3
This advanced prerequisite course comprehensively explores hearing sciences, audiological assessment, and rehabilitative strategies. Students will develop a critical understanding of hearing mechanisms, diagnostic techniques, and intervention approaches across the lifespan, preparing them for professional practice in communication sciences and disorders.
Outcomes
Upon completion of the Speech-Language Pathology Leveling courses (SLP-L) students will:
- Demonstrate foundational knowledge in communication sciences and disorders and the scope of practice for speech-language pathologists.
- Understand the anatomical and physiological bases of speech and hearing.
- Apply phonetic transcription skills and phonological concepts to speech.
- Describe typical language development and its disorders.
- Recognize communication and swallowing disorders across the lifespan.
- Evaluate research in communication sciences and disorders.
- Demonstrate cultural humility and responsiveness in communication sciences.
Next Steps
Students who complete the Speech-Language Pathology Leveling courses (SLP-L) at RMU can apply for admission to RMU’s Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS MedSLP) program when they are in their last semester of completing the SLP-L courses.
Students who complete the Speech-Language Pathology Leveling courses (SLP-L) with a GPA of 3.0 or better and meet all admission requirements will be given a high-priority interview for RMU’s MS MedSLP program.