It is my pleasure to welcome you to the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD), one of the eight academic units under the College of Health and Behavioral Studies at JMU. Whether you are a prospective student researching the various programs offered by our department, an alumnus looking to reconnect, a researcher aiming to collaborate, media searching for subject matter experts, an individual with hearing, speech, language difficulties needing help, or a philanthropist wishing to support our efforts, I hope these web pages provide you valuable information.

JMU is the only university in the Commonwealth of Virginia to offer undergraduate in CSD, masters in SLP (residential and distance education), clinical doctorate in Audiology (AuD), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in CSD – highest ranked graduate programs in the state. We are located in the state-of-the-art HBS building which hosts our on-campus Audiology and Speech-Language clinic as well as research laboratories.

We strive to prepare professionals who are ready to tackle the complex nature of healthcare in the future while keeping focus on the societal needs of the current times. As such, we have developed strategic goals to enhance diversity in our curricula and faculty/students while promoting interprofessional education. We educate our students as our “future colleagues”.

Our faculty consists of brilliant scholars who love teaching as much as they dedicate themselves to addressing important research questions. Our support staff are experienced and dedicated. Our students come from all parts of the country as well as the world. It is my hope that you find our department a very welcoming place for our students, colleagues, clients/patients, and the public. You are welcome here!

Cheers to better hearing, speech and language for all!