Doctor of Philosophy in Communication Sciences and Disorders (PhD)

The PhD program in communication sciences and disorders is the home of more than 50 graduate students preparing for careers in research and university teaching. The program is unique in the breadth and depth of course offerings and research opportunities in audiology, speech pathology, and learning disabilities. These include:

• A new degree structure (established in 2002) that enhances opportunities for students to take full advantage of the vast expertise of the entire faculty. in the department include scientists investigating normal or disordered communication and learning processes, from basic and applied perspectives.
  
  
• The opportunity to conduct research within the framework of an established research laboratory

  Students experience a model of research education that includes the critical elements of funding (external grants), experimentation, dissemination (publication), as well as a true cohort experience (other PhD students working on related topics)

• A cross-disciplinary focus
  Cross-disciplinary ties have been a tradition in the department, but recent university initiatives have resulted in new and exciting opportunities. Presently, both faculty and students are involved in interdisciplinary programs in:
  • Language and Cognition
  • Institute for Neuroscience
  • Cognitive Brain Mapping
  • Cognitive Science
  • Cognitive Neuroscience
  Cross-disciplinary opportunities include course work, laboratory experiences, and regular colloquia series featuring Northwestern faculty and other national and international scientists. Joint faculty appointments between communication sciences and disorders and other related departments are common.

For further details about the PhD in communication sciences and disorders, see:

Admissions Information

Admissions FAQs

General Information and Funding

Doctoral Student Committees

Plan of Study

Course Requirements

Pre-Candidacy Research Requirements

Admission to Candidacy

Doctoral Dissertation

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