Undergraduate Major and Minor

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Major in Speech and Hearing Science

Students majoring in speech and hearing science will learn foundational knowledge for understanding human speech, language, swallowing, hearing and balance processes, with a particular focus on the implications of differences and disruptions in the communication systems associated with disorders.

More information about the fields of audiology and speech-language pathology can be found on the American Speech-Language Hearing Association’s website.

Curriculum

All students must complete a series of SHS professional core classes and an additional 12 credits of SHS electives. Students are advised to work with the undergraduate academic advisor to ensure courses are taken in proper sequential order and, if desired, that they meet the requirements for eventual ASHA certification. NOTE: For those planning on pursuing graduate studies in Speech-Language Pathology or Audiology, many graduate programs require 25 clinical observation hours prior to starting graduate school.  Some of these may be completed as part of SHS 475.

For more information on requirements for our major, please see our Course Catalog page, which includes sample course sequences.

University Requirements

A minimum of 40 hours of upper-division coursework, generally at the 300 and 400 level, is required. These hours can be drawn from all elements of the degree. Students should consult their academic advisor for additional guidance. Minimum number of total hours required for graduation: 120 hours.

University and residency requirements can be found in the Student Code (§ 3-801) and in the Academic Catalog.

General Education Requirements

Speech and Hearing Sciences’ requirements follow the campus General Education (Gen Ed) requirements. Some Gen Ed requirements may be met by courses required and/or electives in the program.  View Speech and Hearing Science Gen Ed courses.

Speech and Hearing Science Minor

The undergraduate Speech and Hearing Science Minor is designed for students who seek basic understanding of the physical, behavioral, biological and social aspects of human communication. The minor is tailored to each student’s individual needs, accommodating students from different disciplines across campus. There are no
prerequisites for this minor.

Learn more about course requirements for the Speech and Hearing Science minor in the university catalog.

Ask an Adviser

Please contact SHS advisor Cathy Warnes at cwarn@illinois.edu or 217-333-8290 with any questions. 


Department of Speech and Hearing Science
901 South Sixth Street
M/C 482
Champaign, IL 61820
217-333-2230