Program in Language

The program in language offers a considerable range of possible special interest options. The student may focus on language acquisition and use in normal children and adults, or choose to focus on language pathologies as evidenced in some particular disordered population. Regardless of the chosen specialization , the student is expected to develop some knowledge of both normal and disordered language processes. Normal and disordered language processes are considered to be complementary approaches to the understanding of language and communication processes.

With the guidance of the advisory committee, the student will develop a specialization through the enrollment in appropriate seminars, courses, readings, independent study, and research practicum.

Examples of such specialization are:

Language Acquisition and Use

Language / Communication Disorders - Adults

Language / Communication Disorders - Children and Adolescents

Language / Communication Disorders - Hearing Impaired

Literacy - Reading and Writing

Nonverbal Communication

A. Course Work (at least 12 credits)

Students will take at least two of the following four courses (depending on their interests):

CDIS 312 Non-Verbal Communication

CDIS 363 Seminar: Language Disorders in Children

CDIS 363 Seminar: Language Disorders in Adults

CDIS 363 Seminar: Psycholinguistics - Language Development

The content and instructors of these seminars may change each semester. These courses may be taken for credit more than once.

At least six (6) credits will be taken outside the department and constitute a related or supporting area. Some examples of related courses are:

Psychology	Development of Language and Related Processes Neuropsychology of Language The Psychology of Lanugage
Linguistics	The Acquisition of Syntax and Semantics Psychological Models for Syntax and Semantics
Education	Problems in Special Education: Learning Disabilities Reading and Writing
Computer Science	Natural Language Processing

B. Research Methods (9 credits)

The student will develop research skills in the following courses or their equivalents:

CDIS 302 Communication Research: Theory and Design

CDIS 306 Communication Methods

CDIS 325 Communication and Behavior: Theories and Models

Students are expected to obtain basic competency in the use of computers for word processing and data management by availing themselves of the equipment and services of the Computer Center . The use of terminals, computer accounts, and instructional services are available to students without charge.

C. Research Experience (at least 9 credits)

Students are expected to be involved in research throughout their program through registration in CDIS 319 - Research Practicum. Also they are encouraged to attend LING 305 / PSYCH 305 - Research Seminar in Language and Psychology and do an oral presentation of a research project in the seminar at least once.

CDIS 319 Research Practicum (1 to 3 credits per semester)

LING 305 / PSYCH 305 Research Seminar in Language and Psychology (1 credit)

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