Listening and Spoken Language (LSL) Interdisciplinary Emphasis for SLP and AuD Students
Listening and Spoken Language (LSL) Interdisciplinary Emphasis for SLP and AuD Students
What is the LSL Interdisciplinary Emphasis Program?
The Listening and Spoken Language (LSL) Interdisciplinary Emphasis program brings together graduate students from Speech‑Language Pathology (SLP), Audiology (AuD), and the LSL Deaf Education master’s program to form a single, collaborative cohort. Together, students gain training and expertise to serve young children who are Deaf or hard of hearing (DHH) who use hearing technology, such as hearing aids or cochlear implants, to develop listening and spoken language.
This interdisciplinary approach is a unique and distinctive strength of the LSL program, rooted in hands‑on, family‑centered training. Because there is a national shortage of professionals with this expertise, the program aims to prepare graduates who can deliver effective language intervention and services within clinical, educational, early intervention, and pediatric audiology settings.
What are the Benefits of Being Part of the LSL Interdisciplinary Program?
Being part of the LSL program connects students directly to an urgent national need and gives them a learning experience that is broader, deeper, and more practical than a single‑discipline path. Because there is a well‑documented shortage of highly trained professionals who can serve young children who are DHH, the LSL program positions graduates to fill critical gaps in real‑world services. By training collaboratively across SLP, audiology, and deaf education, students gain enhanced professional learning and hands‑on, interdisciplinary skills that research and practice efforts have shown to be valuable for serving low‑incidence populations. That combination of specialized preparation, real service experience, and clear workforce demand helps graduates stand out as well‑prepared, in‑demand professionals who can support families and clinics in areas where qualified providers are scarce.
What are the program requirements?
Students admitted to the LSL Emphasis complete all requirements of their core program, including coursework, practicum, and externships, plus additional coursework and practicum specific to the LSL Emphasis.
Click HERE for the program brochure!