Introduction

The Nazareth University Communication Sciences & Disorders Department admits qualified students to its graduate program in speech-language pathology without regard to race, religion, or ethnic origin.  We take pride in our appreciation of diversity, which is brought to the academic and clinical education by our faculty, student body, and practicum sites.  Within our academic community, we strive to maintain the highest professional standards as outlined by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Code of Ethics and as dictated by the highest moral standards for which Nazareth University stands.  The program makes reasonable adaptations in curriculum, policies, and procedures to accommodate differences among individual students.  

The Speech-Language Pathology Program is guided by our department's strategic plan that includes the Vision and Mission of the department. The most recent executive summary of the strategic plan provides an overview of the department initiatives. 

Vision

The vision of the Nazareth University Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) is to be a model for innovative educational opportunities for diverse learners with an emphasis on critical thinking, reflective practices, and community-engaged learning. Our faculty, students, and alumni will be equity-minded changemakers who positively and collaboratively impact our local, national, and global communities.

Mission

The mission of the Nazareth University Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders is to provide academic and clinical education emphasizing innovative interprofessional and equity-minded practices fostering the development of well-prepared professionals who are committed to engagement, impact, and well-being for themselves and others.

The Professional Skills Guide for Graduate Students

Graduate school is an exciting journey filled with opportunities for intellectual growth, research, and professional development. However, success in this phase of your academic career extends beyond technical knowledge and expertise. It requires a well-rounded set of professional skills that enable you to navigate challenges, collaborate effectively, and grow as a scholar and professional.

This professional skills document outlines four key skills and behaviors that are essential for thriving in graduate school: commitment to learning, problem-solving, ethical behavior, and interpersonal communication. These skills not only support academic success but also prepare you for the demands of your future career.

• Commitment to Learning: A dedication to continual growth and the ability to adapt to new knowledge and perspectives are cornerstones of graduate education.

• Problem-Solving: The ability to analyze complex situations, think critically, and develop effective solutions is vital in both academic and professional settings.

• Ethical Behavior: Integrity and ethical decision-making form the foundation of responsible research, teaching, and professional conduct.

• Interpersonal Communication and Skills: Building strong relationships, collaborating with peers and mentors, and expressing ideas clearly are crucial for academic and professional success.

By cultivating these skills, you will be better equipped to handle the demands of graduate school and position yourself for long-term success. We encourage you to reflect on these areas as you progress through your program and to actively seek opportunities to develop and demonstrate them. This guide serves as a resource to help you identify, strengthen, and showcase these competencies throughout your graduate journey.