In some cases the graduate committee may require additional hours in Communication Disorders or in related areas if a student has a significant weakness in a specific area. A student may elect to take more than a minimum 42 hours. In special cases, alternate courses may be substituted for required courses, with the approval of the Communication Disorder faculty. If the degree was not comparable to that offered at the University of Nebraska at Kearney or if deficiencies exist, the student must take those undergraduate courses deemed necessary by the Communication Disorders faculty to make up the deficiencies. In addition to successful completion of all required coursework, students must pass a comprehensive exam.
Students can register for up to six hours of thesis for completion of the degree.
Thesis credit hours can be counted toward the requirement of 42 hours of coursework as electives credit. Such certification applications include both academic and clinical requirements. Additional coursework may be added to a program of study to meet teacher certification requirements. The program prepares graduates to work in public schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, federal and state institutions. Additional professional opportunities include employment in research labs, university teaching, and clinic supervision and administration.