2025-2026 Graduate Catalog
Courses
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Applied Learning |
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APL 600 - Career Launch Credits: 1
Summer
This course equips graduating international students with the skills, tools, and knowledge to support their long-term professional development and career goals after graduation. Through interactive class discussions and engaging assignments, the course serves as a bridge to resources, information, and Emerson community members who are invested in the life-long success of Emerson’s rising alumni. Students learn how to articulate and market their professional skills, grow their professional community (i.e. network), and strategically plan their pursuit of career opportunities. In the context of the competency topics and 1-on-1 appointments, students will gain tools to refine and polish their master and targeted resumes, learn critical cover letter techniques, prepare for interviews, learn to network, and more. Students solidify a foundation for lifelong professional development skills and perspectives as presented by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).
Course Restrictions International students only.
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Business of Creative Enterprises |
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BC 601 - Immersion 1 Credits: 2
The first Immersion provides an intensive, cross-disciplinary introduction to the graduate program. Lead instructors guide the cohort on a tour of themes, lessons, and takeaways from each course in the program. The Immersion lays out the framework of the degree. That is, to examine the ethical and cultural framework of transformative business models, as well as leadership and operational practices that focus on empathy, equity; accessibility; and comprehensive sustainability, financial and fundamental legal literacy. The Immersion is a three-day intensive thread of workshops, discussions, lectures and activities organized via interactive modules. The course is designed to give each student a comprehensive overview of the program and a preview of their individual journey. As the program is online and primarily asynchronous, the Immersion also strives to build community and form bonds between students, faculty and staff.
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BC 602 - The Advocate, Architect and Ambassador: Leadership for a Successful Organization Credits: 4
Re-examines the roles and responsibilities of leadership in business in the midst of historic shifts in creative enterprise work. What does that leadership mean? Whom do leaders serve? What must leaders accomplish? What does it mean to lead from behind? What is servant leadership? What is the difference between transformational and transactional leadership? The Advocate: leadership role qualities and responsibilities from the bottom up. The Architect: a vision to build a sustainable value proposition built on values. The Ambassador: the face of the business and manifestation of its values. This course guides students through the study of change in leadership qualities, drivers for change and includes student role-playing in scenarios of applied leadership with motivation and compassion.
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BC 603 - Storytelling with Vision, Mission, and Value Credits: 4
Students learn to use story to increase the impact of their communication and ability to engage, influence, persuade, and inspire others. This course explores the art and science of a compelling story and how stories convey a vision and motivate actions, create meaning and build culture, inspire buy-in, trust and belief, construct brand identity, attract investors and customers, and contribute to advancing one’s career. Through case studies and structured learning activities, students develop the capacity to communicate appropriately in varied situational and cultural contexts.
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BC 604 - Legal Foundations of Creative Industries: Intellectual Property, Contracts and Employment Law Credits: 4
Covers the legal foundations of the creative economy including intellectual property, employment law, contracts, negotiation and dispute resolution, talent management and regulations which are necessary to any management or leadership role. Students study and debate the business legalities that are central to the creative enterprise discourse.
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BC 605 - Foundations of Finance Credits: 4
Aims to develop students’ ability to comprehend, discuss, and act upon financial matters that affect an organization and its interests. The course assumes that students have a basic familiarity with business concepts. It provides a refined survey of topics dealing with: financial statements as a language of business; financial tools and metrics for decision making; evaluating resource-based investments (e.g., time, labor, and money); and understanding financial implications of business models in creative enterprise and industries. As students progress through this course, they become more literate in terminology and points-of-view as they relate to comprehending market signals, generating or attracting funds, and explaining a project’s financial prospects and problems.
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BC 606 - Leading Creative Collaboration with Equity and Empathy Credits: 4
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are concepts that must be made real. The local and global workforce has and is becoming more diverse in every way: race, gender, sexual orientation, age, spirituality, and cultures. This course explores, through theory and practice, how businesses and organizations can manifest equity in ideation and execution.
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BC 607 - Failure 1, 2, 3: How to Rebuild the Idea Credits: 4
Given that a creative enterprise may have failed, although the genesis or premise may have prevailing value, how do you rebuild it? Understanding the shifts in technology, innovation, target market demand, customer personae, buying behaviors and monetization are key underpinnings for success in creative businesses. In this course, students use innovative business design thinking methods to develop a resiliency to rise up from failure and learn how to decide if it is time to start something new? Students deploy innovative participatory design methods to do the ‘rebuild’ of a creative business.
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BC 609 - The Responsibility Ladder: People, Power, and Policy Credits: 4
Explores the dynamics of the wave of social, cultural, and environmental responsibility movements that are increasingly influencing the corporate and consumer landscape. Students are guided toward the development of a holistic approach to business design in consideration of these shifting dynamics. Students analyze a range of ethical issues that impact the health and well-being of businesses and their various stakeholders; such as environmental sustainability; social responsibility; and diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplaces.
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BC 610 - Immersion 2 Credits: 2
The second Immersion is the culmination of the graduate program. Students are tasked with applying concepts and skills learned from their previous coursework. Critical thinking, collaboration, financial and legal acuity, leadership, and empathy, as well as storytelling and marketing are applied as students end their graduate journey in this two-credit, three-day intensive course.
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Communication Studies (Residential Programs) |
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CC 604 - Strategic Planning and the Managerial Process Credits: 4
Focuses on how organizations function as systems with special emphasis placed on the basic principles of management, strategic planning, decision making, and implementation. Concepts covered include vision, mission, goals, objectives, strategies, tactics, and operations. Organizational communication, the humanistic perspective, ethics, and productivity, in both for-profit and nonprofit environments, are continuing themes throughout this course.
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CC 608 - Public Affairs Credits: 4
Students gain the knowledge and skills necessary to identify, analyze, and communicate with internal and external stakeholder groups for the purpose of persuasion. Rhetorical strategies are developed for ethical, effective issue advocacy campaigns and campaigns to build identity and enhance and protect the reputation of individuals and organizations. New media developments, diverse and global stakeholder groups, and the 24/7 media environment are addressed. Students design and produce at least one original communication campaign for a client in the private or public sector.
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CC 609 - Political Communication Credits: 4
Explores fundamental theories, such as agenda setting, framing, and branding. The balancing of ethical implications confronting many political communication situations is discussed through case studies. Practical communication strategy is evaluated, looking at how the media works in general, including the news (hard and soft), entertainment programs, and advertising, in order to shape political perceptions, change attitudes, and effect behavior. Students are introduced to the latest in grassroots activism and mobilization efforts including mobile and online communication techniques to better shape civic life, elections, and policy decisions.
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CC 610 - ELL Seminar in Pronunciation, Basic Public Speaking, and American Culture Credits: 2 non-tuition
Students develop, learn, and practice correct American English pronunciation skills while learning basic presentation techniques and American culture.
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CC 611 - ELL Dialogues on Global Issues Credits: 2 non-tuition
Develops confidence in public speaking through leading class dialogues on current events, conducting a speech, and working in groups to create broadcast news stories. The class offers practical and theoretical approaches to evaluate and improve English language use.
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CC 612 - Academic Writing for International Students Credits: 2 non-tuition
Students investigate the grammar, organization, and goals of academic and professional English writing. Students have the opportunity to use their own professional and academic written materials from their courses for critical analysis and understanding Western methods of professional and academic written communication.
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CC 613 - ELL Seminar in Leadership and Business English Credits: 2 non-tuition
Students learn and practice advanced business and academic language skills most commonly used in the US. Emphasis is on improving presentation and discussion facilitation skills.
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CC 615 - Exploration of American Culture and Academics Credits: 4 non-tuition
Integrates necessary key academic skills applied in an existing graduate course and introduces students to American and Boston cultureskills focus includes academic reading, writing, and speaking. Reading comprehension breaks down the structure and organization of assigned texts, unpacks vocabulary associated with the reading, and offers reading comprehension strategies. The writing/speaking section focuses on building comprehension of the critical analysis essay form, content, and organizational strategy, with a speaking component to get students used to engaging in and leading class discussions. Cultural and academic topics are used to build these skills.
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CC 621 - Online Content Development and Strategy Credits: 4
Online content development is essential for successful strategic communication. Communication professionals must be experts in designing online audience-centered messages that are heavily influenced by SEO, social media platforms, and geo targeting technologies. And most importantly, content must be ethical, approachable, and manageable for the audience. The purpose of this course is to explore the relationship between information technologies and socio-cultural and political institutions, specifically with respect to human agency. By studying three sets of institutions (knowledge and innovation, governance, and archival ethics), students critically examine the functions of emerging technologies.
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CC 623 - Public Diplomacy Credits: 4
Public diplomacy is an instrument used by states and non-state actors to understand others’ cultures, attitudes, and behavior; build and manage relationships; and influence thoughts and actions to advance their interests and values. Drawing on the experiences of diplomats-both state and public-and a growing academic literature, this seminar-style course covers how public diplomacy’s changing actors, techniques, and practice affect the issues, methods, and mediated environments of diplomacy in the 21st century. Case studies highlight the strengths and challenges of this type of soft power influence.
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CC 624 - Campaign Management Credits: 4
Provides individuals with practical skills for participation in local, state, federal, and global campaigns. Students learn the phases of an advocacy effort including how to test the political waters, the nominating process, primary elections, general elections, and constituents’ services for governing. Aspects of the campaign process that are addressed are fundraising, ballot access (signature gathering), measuring public opinion, opposition research, district analysis, media relations, development of message strategy for voter or targeted public persuasion, identification, and mobilization along with “get out the vote” efforts. Lectures and campaign simulations are used to develop and refine students’ ability to coordinate a successful political campaign. This course has general application for students in public relations, public diplomacy, and health communication who have an interest in internal and external campaign management dynamics.
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CC 626 - Crisis Communication Credits: 4
Students learn about the development of organizational and marketing communication strategies in crisis situations. Using case studies and fieldwork, students focus on the importance of internal communication and media relations during a crisis. Students also investigate preventive strategies that organizations should employ to avoid crises.
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CC 628 - Entrepreneurship and Creative Problem Solving Credits: 4
Entrepreneurship is the process of creating value by bringing together a unique package of resources to exploit an opportunity. Students learn about the concepts and characteristics of entrepreneurship. Students will investigate the key dimensions of entrepreneurial attitudes and behaviors that include: innovativeness, risk-taking, and proactiveness. Case studies are utilized to help students employ concepts from the course and develop their own creative and critical thinking, as well as problem solving skills.
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CC 630 - Sports Communication Credits: 4
Presents an overview of the sports communication mosaic focusing on the following areaspublic relations, advertising, marketing, management, coaching, sports punditry, group and team dynamics, crisis management, media relations, sports advocacy, and celebrity and spectacle in sport, as well as sports as soft power in public diplomacy at the local, national, and global level. Complementing the readings and case studies in the aforementioned areas, the course includes guest lectures from leaders in the emerging sports communication fields, thereby providing students a first-hand understanding of the challenges faced by those participating and working in this area.
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CC 631 - Sports Event Management Credits: 4
This course addresses major trends and best practices that provide knowledge and organizational competencies required for successful event planning. This course focuses on the structure and management in event planning, needs assessments and feasibility studies, prioritizing goals and objectives, proposal writing and implementation, negotiation and problem solving, mid- and post-event evaluations, as well as case studies at the local, national, and global levels.
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CC 632 - Sports as Soft Power Credits: 4
Examines sports as soft power (persuasion, influence, and attraction) in the attempt to bridge communities and cultures on local, national, and global stages. Case studies demonstrate the attraction and effectiveness of sports as a communication strategy utilized by local, national, and international governments and NGOs as part of a strategic communication plan, as well as its role in spontaneous grass roots movements. Critical to our studies is the appreciation that sport may challenge/reinforce social and cultural values at the local, national, and international levels. Complementing our readings and discussions, the course includes guest lectures from individuals in the sports fields, thereby providing students a first-hand understanding of the challenges faced by those participating and working in this area.
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CC 633 - Sports, Culture, and Society Credits: 4
Using an interdisciplinary framework, students learn to assess sport critically as a social institution that holds the potential to both reproduce as well as challenge social inequalities, particularly regarding race and ethnicity, social class, gender, sexualities, and citizenship. Topics include inclusivity and exclusivity in sport, linkages to sport and economy, the local and global aspects of sport as well as how sport shapes individual, organizational, and state/national identities. The goals of the course are to understand how individuals and groups interact within sport that can result in reproduction of inequalities or offer spaces for activism and social change.
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CC 636 - Negotiation and Group Process Credits: 4
Students learn negotiation strategies in personal and organizational contexts. Students apply negotiation strategies, including third-party conflict resolution, union-management settings, and other conflict management efforts to practical settings, and also utilize role-plays.
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CC 640 - User Experience Design Credits: 4
Investigates the development and strategic management of web-based information using a user-centered design approach. Students learn to produce information design structures for websites and mobile devices that maximize user experience. Key audience segments are explored using methods such as audience analysis and persona development. The course examines the internal workings of information architecture to develop recognizable patterns that improve interaction design and ultimately online communication effectiveness. Students also learn usability testing strategies to determine website functionality from a communication outcome perspective.
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CC 643 - Global Communication Credits: 4
Focuses on the management of communication with stakeholders in a world defined by globalization. Case studies, role-play workshops, and ethnographic inquiry are employed to enhance and update the student’s knowledge and awareness of best-practices in contemporary business negotiations and transactions, public diplomacy initiatives, and cross-sector partnerships. Examples from small business to multinationals and from local nonprofits to global NGOs are used.
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CC 645 - Research Methods and Practice Credits: 4
Students engage in applied research for public relations, political communication, and sports communication. Students develop skills in assessing and formulating problems; designing research; gathering, synthesizing, analyzing, and interpreting data; and applying the results to comprehensive communication strategies. Students learn to apply the most appropriate quantitative and qualitative research methods to particular research problems in an effort to effectively address stakeholder audiences, oversee information management systems, and cultivate and manage intellectual capital. Students gain experience in surveys, polling, focus groups, interviews, communication audits, and learn how to optimize research conducted through the internet-based research.
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CC 647 - Organizational Communication Credits: 4
Presents a survey of organizational communication theories along with knowledge and skills necessary for effective applications. Students gain the ability to recognize, access, and when necessary, improve communication within an organization. Special emphasis is given to both the individual as a communicator and the entire organization as a communicating entity.
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CC 648 - Public Relations Credits: 4
Addresses in-depth the development of stakeholder relations and communication in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Topics covered include corporate relations, reputation management, grassroots organizing, public policy and the media, political communication, social advocacy campaigns, and public diplomacy. Case studies of communication campaigns at the local, state, regional, national, and international levels are used. Students produce and present at least one communication campaign to affect behavior in diverse stakeholder groups.
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CC 651 - Speech Writing, Persuasion, and Propaganda Credits: 4
This course is a condensed historical account of how speechmaking, persuasion, and propaganda have shaped the language, politics, and culture of the United States and beyond. By examining significant readings, artifacts, and the rhetorical theories associated around propaganda and public address, the class addresses historical and contemporary issues of rhetoric, ethics, and the state. The primary goal of the class is to acquaint students with a variety of approaches to the study of ethical and intersectional public advocacy, with a focus on theory and praxis to highlight the struggle over the meaning(s) of truth and power.
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CC 652 - Emerging Communication Technologies Credits: 4
Examines persuasive communication theories and research from rhetorical and social science perspectives to best create and analyze digital usability, user engagement tactics, and online content strategies. Students gain fundamental knowledge of how the designs of communication technologies impact the communication, attitudes, behaviors, and actions of individual users, audiences, communities, fans, citizens, governments, non-profits, and brands. An applied emphasis is on knowledge and skill development for students in communication areas such as public relations, marketing, social media, corporate social responsibility, employee relations, community relations, and public affairs.
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CC 655 - Project Management and Communication Credits: 4
Develops skills in understanding, applying, and assessing the process known as project management in a variety of environments. This is accomplished by introducing and applying the following: systems theory and its philosophical underpinnings; project management theories, methods, vocabularies, and skills; organizational communication theories; team building theory, application, and trends; and global workplace implications and trends.
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CC 680 - Rosarito Public Diplomacy Workshop Credits: 4
Provides students the opportunity to study immigration and border issues in a public diplomacy workshop in Rosarito Beach, Baja, Mexico. Students meet with change agents and organizations who have successfully engineered grassroots efforts to bridge cultural and political divides between the US and Mexico. Special attention is focused on diverse communication challenges and how politics, economics, and culture influence such efforts. This year’s workshop focuses on border and immigration issues from the Mexican and US perspectives, with visits with leaders in government, business, NGOs, students, and citizens in Mexico and the US. Students stay at the gated and historic Rosarito Beach Hotel in Rosarito Beach, Baja California.
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CC 690 - Internship in Public Relations Credits: 2 - 4
Requires students to secure positions in organizations where they will gain experience in public relations. Students must meet with site supervisors and internship coordinators throughout their internships and complete reports regarding their experiences during and at the completion of their internships. All students must participate in a mandatory internship orientation the semester before the internship, through the Career Development Center. Students may take up to 4 internship credits.
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CC 692 - Capstone Credits: 4
Students synthesize prior coursework and new learnings to address an important need in public or organizational life. Calling upon competencies in strategic communication planning and design, students produce and present a final professional-level project as the culmination of their course of study. Readings, case studies, and in-class activities support continued inquiry into the most current theoretical dimensions of the discipline. Capstone must be taken in the student’s final year.
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CC 695 - Topics in Communication Studies Credits: 4
Students have the opportunity to enroll in special topics courses that are offered by the Department of Communication Studies when contemporary ideas or new research findings in a chosen area of program study emerge in the field of communication.
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CC 697 - Directed Study Credits: 1 - 4
Students interested in completing independent projects in their areas of study can do so under this option. Students must collaborate with a full-time faculty member in the Department of Communication Studies on their study proposals. These proposals must identify learning objectives, learning outcomes, a justification for taking the directed study, design of instruction, and a bibliography. Proposals must be submitted by the end of the semester preceding the semester in which the students want to complete directed studies. Directed studies cannot be used to fulfill a course requirement that is offered by the Department of Communication Studies. Students must secure the commitment of a full-time faculty member and their signature along with the approvals and signatures of the graduate program director and the department chair. Students may take up to 4 directed study credits.
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Communication Sciences and Disorders Clinical Methods courses must be taken in sequence: CD 600 (if needed), CD 601 , CD 602 , CD 603 , and CD 604 .
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CD 600 - Intro to Clinical Methods Credits: 1 non-tuition
Required for graduate students from undergraduate fields other than communication disorders and provides an introduction to clinical practice. Through class discussion, required observation of clinical work, and community screenings, students begin to understand the dynamic interactions between clients and clinicians.
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CD 601 - Clinical Methods I Credits: 1
Following the completion of observation hours, students learn beginning assessment procedures, treatment strategies, and clinical writing skills. The course covers policies and procedures pertinent to general clinical performance with a focus on infant, toddler, and preschool assessment and treatment experiences. This course must be passed prior to enrolling in CD 602 .
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CD 602 - Clinical Methods II Credits: 1
Students learn assessment, intervention, and documentation for communication disorders often seen in the school-aged population (grades kindergarten through high school). Pertinent public policies related to work within a school setting are integrated into course material. This course must be passed prior to enrolling in CD 603 .
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CD 603 - Clinical Methods III Credits: 1
Students learn about assessment, intervention, and documentation with various communication disorders associated with adults and aging. Additional topics include health care reimbursement, public policy, health literacy, and the role of other team members in adult settings.
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CD 604 - Clinical Methods IV Credits: 1
Focuses on the transition from graduate school to professional practice. Topics include prevention of communication disorders across the lifespan, résumé writing, interviewing skills, supervision, career settings, and professional issues. For Speech@Emerson students, the first portion of CD 604 helps students prepare to take Comprehensive Exams.
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CD 605 - Clinical Practicum (on-campus students only) Credits: 1
As students progress through the program, they are assigned to a variety of clinical opportunities both on and off campus. Students enroll in CD 605 for a minimum of five semesters.
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CD 609 - Research Methods and Measurements Credits: 3
Teaches students how to use various pieces of research (potentially complex or even contradictory) to guide evidence-based clinical practice. Students learn how to formulate relevant clinical research questions, what prior research is appropriate to answer those questions, and how to find and interpret the relevant literature. Finally, students become proficient in identifying applications and limitations of that literature for clinical decision-making. An emphasis is placed on critical thinking, synthesis of information, and clear written and oral expression.
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CD 611 - (Speech@Emerson students only): Clinical Practicum: Virtual Placement Credits: 1
Topics covered include effective chart reviewing, assessment planning and result interpretation, client goal and objective setting, development and implementation of a treatment plan, providing cueing and feedback, data collecting and reporting, interacting with clients’ families, and development of self-reflection skills. Accompanying clinical writing skills for documentation, including treatment plans, SOAP notes, and summary reports, will also be target skills.
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CD 612 - (Speech@Emerson students only): Clinical Practicum Credits: 1
As students progress through the program, they will complete in-person (varying between 3-5 days per week depending upon site expectations) clinical placements at partner sites approved by Emerson College faculty nearby their communities.
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CD 613 - (Speech@Emerson students only): Clinical Practicum Credits: 1
As students progress through the program, they will complete in-person (varying between 3-5 days per week depending upon site expectations) clinical placements at partner sites approved by Emerson College faculty nearby their communities.
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CD 614 - (Speech@Emerson students only): Clinical Practicum Credits: 1
As students progress through the program, they will complete in-person (varying between 3-5 days per week depending upon site expectations) clinical placements at partner sites approved by Emerson College faculty nearby their communities.
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CD 615 - (Speech@Emerson students only): Clinical Practicum Credits: 1
As students progress through the program, they will complete in-person (varying between 3-5 days per week depending upon site expectations) clinical placements at partner sites approved by Emerson College faculty nearby their communities.
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CD 620 - Culturally Responsive Frameworks and Practices Credits: 1
Learners will explore the dimensions of key concepts related to culture and how they apply to the culturally responsive practice of the SLP profession. They will critique traditional frameworks in communication sciences and disorders and explain the need for a culturally responsive framework. They will explore new frameworks and discuss practices that promote anti-oppressive, inclusive practices in the field.
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CD 623 - Fluency Disorders Credits: 3
Explores the nature of stuttering from theoretical and empirical perspectives. Cluttering and neurogenic and psychogenic stuttering are also examined. Procedures for evaluating and treating/managing stuttering among children and adults are emphasized.
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CD 625 - Structures and Functions for Speech, Hearing, and Swallowing Credits: 3
Students study the critical structures and functions of the biological systems that underlie speech, hearing, and swallowing with an emphasis on the processes of respiration, phonation, resonance, and articulation as well as neural bases for these processes. Clinical disorders are used to elucidate dysfunction of these normal processes as substrates for human communication.
This is a foundational course.
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CD 626 - Language Development Credits: 3
Explores the theoretical and practical aspects of the language learning process and its relation to other aspects of cognitive and social development. The course covers the development of language skills throughout the lifespan, from birth to adulthood.
This is a foundational course.
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CD 627 - Survey of Communication Disorders Across the Lifespan Credits: 3
Designed to introduce students to communication disorders encountered by speech language pathologists across a variety of work settings in which they are employed. Students learn about the etiologies, symptoms, and treatment of speech and language disorders seen in children and adults. The course introduces students to clinical services performed by these professionals.
This is a foundational course.
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CD 628 - Clinical Observations and Foundations Credits: 3
Helps students gain the requisite number of observation hours needed to begin clinical practice during graduate school. Through observation of clinical work, class discussion, and introduction to speech/language and oral mechanism screening, students begin to understand the dynamic interactions between clients and their clinicians.
This is a foundational course.
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CD 629 - Speech Sounds: Phonetics and Acoustics Credits: 3
Covers fundamental concepts in articulatory and acoustic phonetics/speech acoustics. Articulatory phonetics content includes (broad) phonetic transcription and articulatory criteria to describe and classify vowels and consonants. Acoustic phonetics includes core concepts pertaining to the physics of sound, acoustic features of phonation and resonance, and inferences of acoustic properties of voicing and resonance from spectrograms of speech sounds.
This is a foundational course.
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CD 630 - Foundations of Audiology Credits: 3
Provides students with an introduction to the field of audiology and how the hearing system functions. It includes a review of basic anatomy and physiology of the ear, with an overview of the physics of sound. Course discussions and activities cover hearing assessments (including pure tone and speech audiometry), audiogram interpretation, and identification of common disorders of the ear. In addition, students are introduced to current medical and clinical management of hearing loss. Overall, the course covers the foundations of what speech language pathologists should know in collaborating with an audiologist and working with individuals with hearing loss.
This is a foundational course.
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CD 635 - Speech Sound Disorders Credits: 3
Presents normative and theoretical perspectives on speech sound development as well as assessment and treatment of the disorders of articulation and phonology. General treatment strategies and specific treatment programs are emphasized. Research in evidence-based practice is highlighted.
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CD 641 - Dysphagia Credits: 3
Presents a survey of swallowing and swallowing disorders that occur from infancy through adulthood and old age. Feeding and swallowing mechanisms and processes are addressed as well as an overview of assessment procedures and management options.
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CD 642 - Autism: Social Communication Development and Disorder Credits: 3
Introduces students to the development of social communication skills in children, as well as the presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of autism spectrum disorder. Covers theories of social communication development, and the timing of related milestones in childhood and adolescence. The impact of social communication deficits on language, cognition, and peer relationships across the lifespan are discussed. Finally, the course reviews empirically supported treatments for autism and related disorders.
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CD 645 - Language and Literacy Disabilities Credits: 3
Focuses on the relationship between spoken and written language and its role in language-based learning disabilities in school-age students. It addresses the characteristics of language, reading, and spelling impairments; the subtypes of these disorders; and the different intervention approaches used with them. Various models of language and reading development and their disorders are reviewed.
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CD 650 - Motor Speech Disorders Credits: 3
Students learn the etiology, assessment, differential diagnosis, and principles of rehabilitation of speech production disorders in individuals with acquired neuropathologies. Information is presented in the context of speech production theory and (where appropriate) of the neurological disease of which the speech disorder is a symptom.
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CD 652 - Craniofacial Anomalies Credits: 1
This seminar reviews failures in craniofacial growth and development and the subsequent associated speech and language disorders. Communication and speech issues related to cleft lip and palate, dental malocclusions, and neuromuscular dysfunctions of the head and face are included. The role of speech-language pathologists in diagnosis and treatment within interdisciplinary models of case management is emphasized.
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CD 653 - Counseling in Speech Language Pathology Credits: 1
This seminar provides a survey of approaches to counseling in speech-language pathology. Students will learn culturally sensitive counseling practices and application of counseling theories to persons with communication and swallowing disorders and theirfamily members, caregivers, and others involved in their care. Exploration of strategies for assessing and working with the family system are also included.
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CD 654 - Early Intervention Credits: 1
(On-campus only)
This seminar provides information regarding early intervention context. Emphasis is placed on understanding this population, the service delivery system, its consumers, and their special needs. The speech-language pathologist’s role in providing direct assessment, treatment, and advocacy for children and their families is integrated into each topic area.
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CD 657 - Immersion Activities: Clinical and Academic Explorations Credits: 0
This course prepares you for your first community placement. It includes summative experiences for academic courses, application of clinical learning, and preparation for community placement. You will receive clinical instruction from immersion facilitators and engage in reflective practice. This is a required zero-credit course. Students are also required to be on-campus in-person at immersion over a span of three days.
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CD 660 - Special Topics in Communication Disorders Credits: 3
This course offers exploration and inquiry into contemporary ideas or research in the field of Communication Sciences and Disorders. Content matter varies each semester. Some topics may require a prerequisite or permission of the instructor.
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CD 670 - Advanced Dysphagia Credits: 1
(On-campus only)
Explores critical thinking skills in special populations with swallowing disorders through problem solving, evidence-based review, case study analyses, review, and presentation. Learners perform feeding and swallowing analyses, use evidence-based tools, develop and document a plan of care, and present their findings to colleagues in the class.
Prerequisite(s)/Corequisite(s) CD 641 .
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CD 671 - Practicing Speech-Language Pathology in Medical Settings Credits: 1
(On-campus only)
There are multiple topics critical to SLP practice in medical settings that are not typically covered elsewhere in the graduate curriculum. Without classroom exposure to current health care issues and related-discipline information (GI, ENT, pulmonary, laboratory), new graduates can find themselves at a disadvantage. The purpose of this course is to introduce students to these issues in order to better prepare them for future clinical work in these environments. Recommended prior coursework is an Aphasia and/or Dysphagia course.
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CD 672 - Progressive Neurodegenerative Disorders Credits: 1
(On-campus only)
This seminar offers an overview of specialized intervention provided by speech-language pathologists for adults with progressive neurological disorders, a population increasingly receiving complex medical multidisciplinary rehabilitation services across the lifespan post-diagnosis. Topics include identifying, recognizing, and classifying various progressive neurodegenerative disorders, including disorders of the central nervous system (e.g., MS, PD, ALS, dementia), genetic/metabolic disorders (e.g., Huntington’s, MD), and neoplastic/neurotoxic disorders. Participants learn how speech-language pathologists participate within interdisciplinary medical teams and how SLPs intervene with clients in domains of communication, cognition, and swallowing.
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CD 673 - Practical Approaches to Fluency Treatment Credits: 1
(On-campus only)
This seminar provides an overview of integrated fluency therapy with an emphasis on experiential exercises to practice procedures involved in the evaluation and treatment of children and adults who stutter. The seminar involves lectures, class discussions, use of videotaped speech samples, experiential exercises to practice the skills involved in evaluation and treatment of stuttering, and a brief review of counseling strategies and resources for people who stutter, their families, and clinicians.
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CD 677 - Voice Disorders Credits: 3
Addresses the characteristics, etiology, evaluation, and clinical management of voice disorders and associated pathological conditions in both children and adults. Neuroanatomy and neurophysiology of voice and speech production are reviewed.
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CD 680 - Neurologic Foundations in CSD Credits: 3
Outlines the anatomy and functional neurophysiology of human communication and provides an overview of neurodevelopment and its processes and disorders. Although the organization of the human nervous system is presented, emphasis is placed on the relationship of this organization to the components of the various communicative, cognitive, linguistic, sensory, and motor processes that are central to human communication and to the treatment of its disorders.
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CD 684 - Augmentative and Alternative Communication Credits: 3
Provides an overview of augmentative and alternative communication systems (AAC) and the process of selecting and implementing these systems for children and adults. The first section of the course concerns the basic processes of AACmessages, symbols, alternative access, assessment, and intervention planning. The second section describes issues related to people with developmental disabilities who require AAC services. The third section focuses on AAC for people with acquired communication disabilities.
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CD 686 - Preschool Language Disorders Credits: 3
Focuses on the study of language disorders from infancy through the preschool years. Consideration is given to signs and symptoms, etiology, clinical course, and developmental-academic-social impact. Assessment and intervention are highlighted using principles of evidence-based practice. Discussion of language and culture and the diverse roles played by speech-language pathologists are integrated throughout the course.
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CD 687 - Comprehensive Exams Credits: 0
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CD 689 - Language and Communication in d/Deaf and Hard of Hearing Individuals Credits: 3
This course provides students with a review of audiological information relevant to the scope of practice for speech-language pathologists (e.g., common assessments, interpretation of audiometric results, common diagnoses). Students will review relevant literature (e.g., related to communication modality options and diverse identities) and learn about assessment and intervention practices for the habilitation and rehabilitation (auditory, speech, language, literacy, and communication) of children and adults who are d/Deaf or hard of hearing.
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CD 690 - Aphasia Credits: 3
Pathophysiology, epidemiology, and prevention of aphasia, its nature, assessment, diagnostic procedures, and approaches to intervention are presented. Issues surrounding recovery and prognosis, and treatment efficacy are also included. Information is presented with reference to the current literature in the field and to its clinical application.
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CD 692 - Cognitive Communicative Disorders Credits: 3
Communication disorders consequent to dementing processes, closed head injury, and damage to the right cerebral hemisphere are covered. Pathology, assessment, differential diagnosis, and treatment are addressed with reference to the current literature.
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CD 698 - Independent Study Credits: 1 - 3
Independent work in communication disorders includes, but is not limited to, readings and a critical review of the literature in a particular area and a small data-based study or project resulting in a diagnostic protocol, treatment program, or videotape. An independent study is carried out with the permission and supervision of one faculty member. This independent project can substitute for one to three of the seminars.
Prerequisite(s)/Corequisite(s) Permission of instructor required.
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CD 699 - Master’s Thesis Credits: 3
The master’s thesis involves an investigation of a problem in speech, language, voice, hearing, or swallowing. Students must present the thesis in a public forum and may also complete a defense meeting administered by the thesis committee. Students who complete the master’s thesis are exempt from taking the comprehensive exam. Performance for the thesis is recorded as Pass/Fail.
Course Restrictions This course is for on-campus students only.
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Digital Communication Leadership |
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DC 601 - Leading Organizational Change Credits: 4
Students are introduced to key theories of organizational leadership, management, communication, and change. The course is designed to blend research and theory with practical application to change management. Students learn the complexities of organizational structures, stakeholder analysis, and how to communicate change efforts effectively. A primary goal is to focus students’ learning on skill development and applied practices to lead change in fast-paced and diverse environments.
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DC 602 - Project Management and Communication Credits: 4
Project management is an organized approach to problem-solving which can have broad applications in virtually any field. This course focuses on the fundamentals of project management, with a focus on the role of communication in project success. Through a study of the principles of project management and organizational skills, students will develop perspectives on successful project practices, and develop the skills needed to organize and plan for a project of practically any size. Topics will include project management tools and processes, stakeholder management, constraint management, project planning, effective communication, change management, and conflict and scope management. Students will use multiple online modalities to apply their knowledge in real-world settings and develop an understanding of techniques which can be applied across a wide variety of organizations and industries.
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DC 603 - Inclusive Leadership and Conflict Management Credits: 4
This course is designed to prepare students to effectively manage organizational conflict with focus on recognizing differences and creating inclusion. Students will gain a better understanding of organizational conflict by being introduced to the various contributors to conflict in general and workplace conflict in particular, learning about the different styles and approaches to conflict and how those styles and what they bring into conflict impact organizations. Students will get an overview of how organizations typically resolve disputes, the various options available to address conflict in the workplace, the relevant policies that should be considered when conflict is present, and how to recognize and manage workplace biases. Students will develop the tools necessary to engage productively - both directly and as a third party - when called upon to address organizational conflict.
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DC 604 - Leading Effective Teams Credits: 4
This course will provide students with the knowledge and skills to lead and manage effective teams. Coursework will consist of reviewing academic and applied research, case studies and best practices in a variety of fields. Topics will include but not be limited to recognizing the characteristics of high performing teams, avoiding the dynamics of dysfunctional teams and managing diverse teams. Frameworks and tools will also be used to measure and assess team performance in different organizational environments.
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DC 605 - Emerging Communication Technologies Credits: 4
Students study persuasive communication theories and research from rhetorical and social science perspectives to best create and analyze digital usability, user engagement tactics, and online content strategies. Students gain fundamental knowledge of how the designs of communication technologies impact the communication, attitudes, behaviors, and actions of individual users, audiences, communities, fans, citizens, governments, non-profits, and brands. An applied emphasis is on knowledge and skill development for students in communication areas such as public relations, marketing, social media, corporate social responsibility, employee relations, community relations, and public affairs.
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DC 606 - User Experience Design Credits: 4
Students gain knowledge and skills in the development and strategic management of web-based information using a user-centered design approach. Students learn to produce information design structures for websites and mobile devices that maximize user experience. Key audience segments are explored using methods such as audience analysis and persona development. The course examines the internal workings of information architecture to develop recognizable patterns that improve interaction design and ultimately online communication effectiveness. Students also learn usability testing strategies to determine website functionality from a communication outcome perspective.
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DC 607 - Online Content Strategy Credits: 4
The primary goal of the class is to acquaint students with a variety of approaches to the study of ethical and intersectional content strategy, with a focus on theory and praxis to highlight the struggle over the meaning(s) of audience management. The purpose of this course is to explore the relationship between information technologies and socio-cultural and political institutions, specifically with respect to human agency. By studying three areas of communication studies (knowledge and innovation; governance; and ethics), students critically examine the functions of emerging technologies. Students move through assigned readings, assessments, lectures, and discussions from a critical consumer position; after completing the course, students will be equipped to analyze and produce public strategy and discourse that engages technology through an ethical, social and political lens.
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DC 608 - Digital Analytics Credits: 4
Students learn the techniques and practices in digital measurement tools to integrate into strategic communication planning. Students learn how to interpret, evaluate, and integrate digital data. Students acquire the knowledge and skills to successfully leverage insights from data for strategic messaging.
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DC 609 - Cross-Platform Audience Strategy and Message Design Credits: 4
This course explores the ever-evolving realm of digital communication, emphasizing the intersection of content development and audience engagement. Throughout the semester, students delve into the intricacies of cross-channel messaging, acquiring both the strategic acumen and tactical know-how necessary to effectively engage target audiences across diverse online platforms. Whether crafting short-form or long-form content, participants gain key insights into developing messages that resonate authentically across a range of channels-from social media to email marketing to the broader web. Through hands-on projects and collaborative exercises, students refine their leadership skills, positioning themselves as adept navigators of the dynamic digital communication landscape.
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DC 610 - Digital Crisis Management Credits: 4
This course delves into the intricate dynamics of digital communication in the context of crisis management. Students will explore how digital platforms and tools can both mitigate and exacerbate crises, significantly influencing public trust and perception of institutions and brands. The course provides a critical examination of digital strategies, ethical considerations, and the evolving role of digital media in shaping crisis narratives and responses. Emphasis is placed on developing strategic thinking and skills to effectively manage crises in a digital world, balancing technological savvy with a deep understanding of human communication behaviors.
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Film and Media Art |
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VM 600 - Producing Strategies for Modern Media Credits: 4
Covers all aspects of producing as it may apply to the production of a feature, student thesis, or short media project-business affairs (contracts, crew deal memos, actor contracts); crew management, casting, and other customary production issues are covered and adapted to fit low budgets and tight schedules. Issues regarding diversity within all aspects of production and casting are explored in order to better understand preexisting bias and how we may improve our projects by actively pursuing diversity. Students use the programming software of Movie Magic Budgeting and Scheduling in hands-on, in-class sessions to create budgets and schedules from sample scripts. In addition to examining best practices and techniques for production, students explore story development (written and in-class pitching), festivals, and marketing/distribution. Finally, students explore broader contextual producing topics connected to the diversification of viewing platforms and distribution formats through readings and in class exercises. The class work in part is done through group presentations that encourage students to examine their own abilities to lead and collaborate with professionalism.
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VM 604 - Topics in Media Production Credits: 4
Special offerings in the area of production.
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VM 605 - Graduate Writing the Short Subject Credits: 4
Introduces the three genres of short form-fiction, nonfiction, and experimental. Students learn the differences and components of each genre and acquire an understanding of the art, craft, and discipline of each process from a writer’s point of view. Emphasis is on developing the writer’s individual personal vision.
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VM 606 - Writing for Interactive Media Credits: 4
Explores the fundamentals of writing for the interactive screen. Examines narrative, non-text, web, and multi-user game contexts as the student works from the ideation phase through completed works made ready for production.
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VM 607 - Fiction Film Directing Credits: 4
Provides an overview of the role of the fiction film director from script development through post-production. Examines each phase of the director’s process with emphasis on the methodologies necessary to realize the dramatic possibilities of a cinematic story. Students create several short exercises and analyze the works of master directors.
Prerequisite(s)/Corequisite(s) VM 613 , Advanced Standing, or waiver from the graduate program director
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