Fran Hagstrom
Department Head, Communication Disorders and Occupational Therapy
272 Epley Center for Health Professions
479-575-4891
fhagstr@uark.edu

Rachel Glade
Program Director
270 Epley Center for Health Professions
479-575-3575
Email: rglade@uark.edu

Jessica Danley
Clinical Education Coordinator 
267 Epley Center for Health Professions
479-575-4085
Email: jessicad@uark.edu

Communication Sciences and Disorders Website

Degrees Conferred:
M.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CDISMS)

The Master of Science (M.S.) education program in speech-language pathology at the University of Arkansas is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, 2200 Research Blvd., # 310, Rockville, MD 20850; 800-498-2071 or 800-301-5700.

M.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Prerequisites to Degree Program: Applicants to the M.S. degree in communication sciences and disorders with an emphasis in speech-language pathology are expected to have completed prerequisite course work in normal speech, language, and hearing functions, normal development, and speech-language and hearing disorders, as well as biological and physical sciences, behavioral and social sciences, and mathematics. Prospective applicants with undergraduate degrees in other disciplines should contact the Program Adviser for further information. To be considered for admission to graduate study in communication sciences and disorders, applicants must have a minimum overall GPA of 3.00 in undergraduate course work and must submit transcripts of all college-level coursework, a personal statement, and three letters of recommendation from persons competent to judge the applicant’s potential for graduate studies. All applicants must submit scores from the Graduate Record Examination for full consideration. Students are only accepted for Fall admission. The application deadline is January 15 and must be completed using the CSDCAS centralized electronic application process (see the Communication Sciences and Disorders website for details). Incomplete and/or late applications will not be considered. Admission decisions are based on demonstrated graduate potential as well as best fit for the program

Requirements for the Master of Science Degree: The M.S. degree program in communication sciences and disorders is designed to ensure that all degree candidates meet the minimum academic and clinical practicum requirements for the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). The degree program requires a minimum of five academic semesters to complete, including continuous enrollment in the summer session between the first and second years. Thesis and non-thesis options are available. All candidates for the M.S. degree are required to pass a written comprehensive examination. All candidates are required to obtain a license for an electronic software program to track clinical experience throughout the program.

The program requires 36 hours of graduate-level academic credit and 17 hours of graduate-level clinical credit for the M.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders. Required courses, clinical courses, and electives are listed below.

Required Core Courses (27 hours)
CDIS 5103Research Methodology in Communication Disorders3
CDIS 5121LFeeding and Swallowing Disorders Lab1
CDIS 5122Feeding and Swallowing Disorders2
CDIS 5213Voice and Resonance Disorders3
CDIS 5223Fluency Disorders3
CDIS 5233Speech Sound Disorders3
CDIS 5243Language Disorders in Adults3
CDIS 5253Motor Speech Disorders3
CDIS 5273Language, Learning and Literacy3
CDIS 5293Augmentative and Alternative Communication3
Clinical Courses (17 hours)
CDIS 5183Advanced Clinical Practicum I3
CDIS 5283Advanced Clinical Practicum II3
CDIS 5383Advanced Clinical Practicum III3
CDIS 5483Advanced Clinical Practicum IV3
CDIS 5585Advanced Clinical Practicum V5
CDIS Graduate-Level Electives 9
Total Hours53

Academic Retention Policy:

All graduate students are subject to the Graduate School Policies.

In addition to the graduate school policies, the Communication Sciences and Disorders program has adopted a more stringent set of academic guidelines that align with the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).

To complete the M.S. Degree:

Students will be retained and progress through the graduate program by meeting the following requirements:

1. Follow all CDIS Policies as noted in the CDIS graduate and clinic manuals.

2. Only those that have a graduate GPA of ≥3.0 will be cleared for graduation from the program. In addition, no credit is earned for courses in which a grade of “F” or “D” is recorded (but these courses count towards GPA). Courses in which a grade of "F" or "D" are earned must be retaken, and a passing grade (“C” or better) must be earned prior to graduation. The maximum number of credit hours that can be retaken is 6 hours.

3. At the end of each semester (i.e., August, December and May), student progress will be assessed. Students will be placed on probation if:

a. Cumulative GPA is less than or equal to a 2.85 (student will receive a letter from the graduate school) or the student earned two “C”s or lower in the semester being evaluated (student will receive a letter from the program director).

4. Students on probation will be reassessed at the end of the following semester. Re-assessment will determine if the student is removed from probation or is dismissed from the program.

a. Student removed from probation: If the student earns greater than a “C” in all coursework during the probation semester AND the cumulative GPA is greater than 2.85.

b. Student is dismissed from the program: If the student earns any grade less than a “B” during the probation semester (regardless of cumulative GPA).

A student cannot graduate while on probation. If they are on probation during their final semester, a student must earn a “B” or greater in all of their coursework.  Likewise, their final cumulative GPA must be greater than or equal to a 3.00 (see point 2 above).

To complete requirements for state licensure and ASHA certification, students must complete the additional requirements listed below:

  1. Students must abide by the ASHA Code of Ethics and ASHA Scope of Practice for Speech-Language-Pathologists at all time while enrolled in the program.
    1. First-time offense: Remediation plan determined by the CDIS Program Director and academic advising committee.
    2. Second offense: Dismissal from the program.
  2. Graduate students are expected to demonstrate competency for each of the course objectives. If a student's performance falls below the 80% level for any objective, the student will be expected to complete additional assignments or assessments until competency is demonstrated. Remediation assignments/assessments will be agreed upon by the instructor and the student. Examples of remediation strategies include weekly meetings with the course instructor to review course materials and complete additional assignments, completion of alternate exams or quizzes, and completion of related research projects. Remediation projects are intended to allow students to demonstrate required competencies and may have no effect on the final course grade. Each student's overall performance in the program will be assessed at mid-term and at the end of each semester to determine if a formal intervention plan is required. See the CDIS Graduate Student Academic Handbook for information regarding the University of Arkansas regulations for academic performance, probation, and CDIS intervention plans.

Students should also be aware of Graduate School requirements with regard to master's degrees.

The Program Coordinator, in consultation with the Master’s Committee, Department Head, and the Graduate School, has the authority and responsibility to dismiss a student from the program for unethical or unprofessional behavior.  Students who have been dismissed by the program on the basis of unethical or unprofessional conduct may appeal the decision following the procedures outlined under the Unethical and Unprofessional Conduct policy contained in the Graduate Catalog of Studies.

Graduate Faculty

Bowers, Andrew L., Ph.D. (University of Tennessee Health Science Center), M.A., B.A. (University of Tennessee), Associate Professor, Department of Communication Disorders and Occupational Therapy, 2012, 2019.
Bowers, Lisa Marie, Ph.D. (University of Tennessee Health Science Center), M.A., B.A. (Louisiana State University), Associate Professor, Department of Communication Disorders and Occupational Therapy, 2012, 2019.
Frazier, Kimberly Frances, Ph.D. (University of South Carolina–Columbia), M.S., B.S.E. (University of Arkansas), Associate Professor, Department of Communication Disorders and Occupational Therapy, 2007, 2013.
Glade, Rachel E., Ph.D. (University of Arkansas), M.S. (University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences), M.A. (University of Arkansas), B.S. (University of Arkansas at Little Rock), Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Communication Disorders and Occupational Therapy, 2015, 2017.
Haghighi, Mohammad, Ph.D. (Ohio University), Assistant Professor, Department of Communication Disorders and Occupational Therapy, 2019.
Hagstrom, Fran W., Ph.D. (Clark University), M.S. (University of Texas Health Science Center-Houston), M.A. (St. Louis University), B.A. (Southwest Baptist University), Associate Professor, Department of Communication Disorders and Occupational Therapy, 2002, 2008.
Holyfield, Christine E., Ph.D. (Pennsylvania State University), M.A. (University of Kansas), B.S. (Central Michigan University), Associate Professor, Department of Communication Disorders and Occupational Therapy, 2017, 2022.

Courses

CDIS 5103. Research Methodology in Communication Disorders. 3 Hours.

An examination of methods of research in speech-language pathology and audiology and of the use of bibliographic tools. Focuses on purposes and problems of various forms of communication disorders research, procedures and instruments employed, and reporting of research. Prerequisite: Graduate standing. (Typically offered: Fall)

CDIS 5113. Seminar in Early Intervention. 3 Hours.

Study of a family-centered, transdisciplinary approach to early intervention with infants and toddlers at-risk for communication disorders. Topics include early communication development, service delivery in a family context, coordination with other disciplines, legislation mandating services, and providing services to children with multiple disabilities. Prerequisite: CDIS 3223 or equivalent, and graduate standing. (Typically offered: Irregular)

CDIS 5121L. Feeding and Swallowing Disorders Lab. 1 Hour.

Observation and interpretation of techniques used for assessment and remediation of feeding and swallowing disorders in children and adults. Prerequisite: Enrollment in CDISMS program or Instructor Consent. (Typically offered: Spring)

CDIS 5122. Feeding and Swallowing Disorders. 2 Hours.

Study of the etiology, assessment, and remediation of feeding and swallowing disorders in children and adults. Prerequisite: Enrollment in CDISMS program or Instructor Consent. (Typically offered: Spring)

CDIS 5143. Cognitive-Communication Development and Disorders. 3 Hours.

Study of normal cognitive development, the role of communication in this development, and shifts that may occur in conjunction with various speech, language and/or hearing disorders. Prerequisite: CDIS 3223. (Typically offered: Fall)

CDIS 5153. TBI and Right-Hemisphere Disorders. 3 Hours.

Study of the speech and language disorders commonly resulting from traumatic brain injury and right hemisphere disorders. Prerequisite: Enrollment in CDISMS program or instructor consent. (Typically offered: Spring)

CDIS 5163. Seminar in Language Topics. 3 Hours.

Study of selected topics in normal and disordered language acquisition and/or language use. Implications of current research are reviewed and applied to evaluation and management of language impairment(s). Prerequisite: Graduate standing. (Typically offered: Irregular)

CDIS 5183. Advanced Clinical Practicum I. 3 Hours.

Practicum activities in speech-language assessment and intervention. Prerequisite: Graduate standing. (Typically offered: Fall)

CDIS 5203. Introduction to Aural Rehabilitation. 3 Hours.

Study of the technique used in the rehabilitation of speech and language problems of the hearing impaired including the role of amplification, auditory training, and speech reading in rehabilitation. Graduate degree credit will not be given for both CDIS 4133 and CDIS 5203. Prerequisite: CDIS 3103. (Typically offered: Spring)

CDIS 5213. Voice and Resonance Disorders. 3 Hours.

Study of disorders of phonation and resonation, including etiologies, diagnosis, and intervention strategies. Prerequisite: Graduate standing. (Typically offered: Fall)

CDIS 5223. Fluency Disorders. 3 Hours.

An examination of fluency disorders including theory, etiological factors, and development. In addition, the course is designed to address assessment and management of fluency disorders consistent with evidence-based practice for prospective speech-language pathologists. Prerequisite: Graduate standing. (Typically offered: Fall)

CDIS 5233. Speech Sound Disorders. 3 Hours.

Assessment and treatment of disorders in speech articulation. Prerequisite: Graduate standing. (Typically offered: Summer)

CDIS 5243. Language Disorders in Adults. 3 Hours.

This course will examine the diagnosis and treatment of language disorders in adults with focal and diffuse brain injuries. Prerequisite: Graduate standing. (Typically offered: Fall)

CDIS 5253. Motor Speech Disorders. 3 Hours.

Study of motor speech production disorders related to damage to central or peripheral nervous system motor centers and pathways. Cerebral palsy, adult dysarthria, apraxia, and dysphagia are emphasized. Both theoretical and treatment considerations are addressed. Prerequisite: Enrollment in the Communication Sciences and Disorders Master of Science (CDISMS) program or instructor consent. (Typically offered: Spring)

CDIS 5273. Language, Learning and Literacy. 3 Hours.

An examination of language-based literacy skills, including consideration of development, disorders, assessment and intervention. Prerequisite: Enrollment in CDISMS program or instructor consent. (Typically offered: Summer)

CDIS 5283. Advanced Clinical Practicum II. 3 Hours.

Practicum activities in speech-language assessment and intervention. Prerequisite: Graduate standing and CDIS 5183. (Typically offered: Spring)

CDIS 5293. Augmentative and Alternative Communication. 3 Hours.

Approaches to communication management with the severely and profoundly handicapped child or adult, with primary emphasis on augmentative and alternative communication assessment and intervention. Prerequisite: Graduate standing. (Typically offered: Fall)

CDIS 5343. Cognitive Communication in Adults. 3 Hours.

Cognitive and communicative breakdown due to neurological trauma, including etiology, characteristics, assessment, and treatment for traumatic brain injury, right hemisphere injury, dementia, and other neurodegenerative communication disorders. Prerequisite: Graduate Standing. (Typically offered: Spring)

CDIS 5353. Neurological Bases of Communication. 3 Hours.

A study of the structures and functions of the central and peripheral nervous systems as they relate to human speech, language, and cognition. Graduate degree credit will not be given for both CDIS 4253 and CDIS 5353. Prerequisite: Enrollment in the Communication Sciences and Disorders Master of Science (CDISMS) program or Instructor Consent. (Typically offered: Fall)

CDIS 5383. Advanced Clinical Practicum III. 3 Hours.

Practicum activities in speech-language assessment and intervention. Prerequisite: Graduate standing and CDIS 5283. (Typically offered: Summer)

CDIS 5483. Advanced Clinical Practicum IV. 3 Hours.

Practicum activities in speech-language assessment and intervention. Prerequisite: Graduate standing and CDIS 5383. (Typically offered: Fall)

CDIS 5585. Advanced Clinical Practicum V. 5 Hours.

Practicum activities in speech-language assessment and intervention. Prerequisite: Graduate standing and CDIS 5483. (Typically offered: Spring)

CDIS 5813. Advanced Auditory (Re)Habilitation. 3 Hours.

This course provides students with an in-depth knowledge of hearing anatomy and physiology as well as current hearing and hearing assistive technologies. The development of auditory skills across the lifespan will be discussed as well as intervention techniques to facilitate auditory, speech, and spoken language skills across the lifespan. Prerequisite: Graduate standing. (Typically offered: Fall)

CDIS 5823. Language Learning with Multiple Disabilities. 3 Hours.

Approaches to services (assessment and intervention) for individuals who, as a result of multiple disabilities, are in the beginning stages of language development including the preintentional and presymbolic stages. Prerequisite: Graduate standing. (Typically offered: Irregular)

CDIS 5843. Communication and Swallowing in Dementia. 3 Hours.

This course provides an in-depth examination of the communication and feeding/swallowing factors demonstrated by patients with dementia. Etiologies, symptoms, progression, evaluation, and appropriate interventions for of the most common forms of dementia are addressed. Prerequisite: Graduate standing. (Typically offered: Summer)

CDIS 5883. Policies & Procedures in Educational Speech-Language Pathology. 3 Hours.

Educational Speech Pathology is designed to familiarize the student the factors related to functioning as an SLP in an educational setting, including state and federal regulations/standards, service delivery considerations, eligibility criteria, and documentation. Prerequisite: Graduate Standing. (Typically offered: Summer)

CDIS 590V. Special Problems. 1-6 Hour.

Special problems. Prerequisite: Graduate standing. (Typically offered: Fall, Spring and Summer) May be repeated for up to 6 hours of degree credit.

CDIS 600V. Master's Thesis. 1-6 Hour.

Master's Thesis. Prerequisite: Graduate standing. (Typically offered: Fall, Spring and Summer) May be repeated for degree credit.

CDIS 6103. Literacy for Learning in Educational Settings. 3 Hours.

An examination of language-based literacy skills, including consideration of development, disorders, assessment, and intervention. Prerequisite: Graduate standing and admission to the ASLPMC program or with departmental consent. (Typically offered: Fall)

CDIS 6203. Advanced Assessment and Intervention for Fluency Disorders. 3 Hours.

An examination of fluency disorders including theory, etiological factors, and development. In addition, the course is designed to address assessment and management of fluency disorders consistent with evidence-based practice for prospective speech-language pathologists. Prerequisite: Graduate standing and admission to the ASLPMC program or with departmental consent. (Typically offered: Fall)

CDIS 6303. Effective Augmentative and Alternative Communication Services in Schools. 3 Hours.

This course will support current speech-language pathologists in becoming more effective speech-language pathologists as it relates to the provision of augmentative and alternative services in schools. Throughout this course, students will (a) identify a barrier they wish to address relevant to their current service provision or their current caseload, (b) discover strategies for addressing that barrier, and (c) develop a plan for improving their augmentative and alternative service provision through the implementation of those strategies in their own professional work. Prerequisite: Graduate standing and admission to the ASLPMC program or with departmental consent. (Typically offered: Spring)

CDIS 6403. Advanced Pediatric Feeding and Swallowing Assessment & Intervention. 3 Hours.

Study of the etiology, assessment, and remediation of feeding and swallowing disorders in children. Prerequisite: Graduate standing and admission to the ASLPMC program or with departmental consent. (Typically offered: Irregular)

CDIS 6503. Behavioral Management in Educational Settings. 3 Hours.

The course provides an introduction to behavioral management across a variety of settings highlighting best practices from organizing time, materials, and room space. Strategies for managing individual and large group student behaviors, transitions, and other arrangements will be presented in addition to basic federal and state laws as they pertain to the legal procedures for all professionals, including educators of students with disabilities and students who use English as a Second Language (ESL). Prerequisite: Graduate standing and admission to the ASLPMC program or with departmental consent. (Typically offered: Spring)

CDIS 699V. Seminar in Communication Sciences and Disorders. 1-6 Hour.

Discussion of pertinent topics and issues in the discipline of communication sciences and disorders. Prerequisite: Advanced graduate standing. (Typically offered: Irregular) May be repeated for up to 18 hours of degree credit.