Course descriptions for the SLPA Certificate

CSD 191: Communication Disorders in Society (3 credits).  Explores communication disorders as they are portrayed in the media and in society. Each major communication disorder is also explored relative to etiology, diagnosis, and treatment. Letter grade only (can also be used for the liberal studies requirements at NAU in the applied sciences category).

CSD 251: Anatomy and Physiology of Speech and Swallowing (3 credits). This course will introduce students to anatomy and physiology (structure and function) relevant to human communication and swallowing. This course will primarily focus on the typical child and adult, which will facilitate comprehension of disorders and atypical conditions covered in later coursework. Letter grade only.

CSD 350: Communication Development in Children (3 credits). This course covers typical development of language and literacy from birth through later adolescence, with additional emphasis placed on cultural and linguistic differences. Letter grade only.

CSD 352: Phonetics (3 credits). Introduction to the description and classification of speech sounds with a focus on American English. Topics include articulatory phonetics, segmental and suprasegmental descriptions of speech production, dialectal variation, and speech sound development. Students will use the International Phonetic Alphabet to transcribe speech patterns of children and adults. Letter grade only.

CSD 390: SLPA Professional Issues (3 credits). This course focuses on the ethical and professional issues fundamental to the role of the speech-language pathology assistant. Letter grade only.

CSD 391: SLPA Clinical Skills (3 credits). This course focuses on the clinical skills fundamental to the role of the speech-language pathology assistant in assisting the SLP with treatment and screening of common speech sound disorders, language disorders, and other communication disorders in children and adults. Letter grade only.

CSD 454: Introduction to Clinical Practice in Communication Disorders (3 credits). This course focuses on the development of fundamental clinical skills for the speech-language pathology assistant and speech-language pathologist. Students will participate in practical clinical experiences frequently encountered when providing speech-language services to individuals with communication disorders. Letter grade only.

CSD 460: Clinical Interaction in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology (3). The 100 hours of clinical interaction required for Arizona licensure as an SLPA is obtained in this class.  Introduces clinic policies and procedures through a variety of clinical activities.