Communication Sciences and Disorders Major with Initial Teacher Certification

The Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders with Initial Teacher Certification is a pre-professional program in speech-language pathology and audiology that includes coursework beyond the basic degree program, and that is designed to prepare students for supervised entry-level employment in the school setting within New York State.  Students who follow the major sequence, satisfy minimum course and grade point average requirements, and who obtain specified competencies meet the requirements established by the New York State Department of Education for initial certification as a Teacher of Students with Speech and Language Disabilities (TSSLDS).  The program is designed to prepare students for graduate study in the area of Speech-Language Pathology, Audiology, or Deaf Education.  Students are provided opportunities to apply their knowledge through work in the campus Speech and Hearing Clinic, and through off-campus service leaning opportunities.  Students in the certification program also complete a student teaching experience.

Students seeking initial TSSLD certification must take the LAST and ATS-W tests prior to student teaching.  Both tests must be passed in order to earn certification.  The State of New York requires all persons working in the school setting, including teachers, be fingerprinted prior to entry into the school setting.

Students who earn the initial teacher certification must obtain a Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology, satisfy work requirements, and convert the initial certificate to a Professional certificate within fine years in order to remain employed in the school setting.