Description of Field

Communication Sciences and Disorders (COMD) is a multidisciplinary field focused on understanding, diagnosing, and treating speech, language, and hearing disorders as well as disorders of swallowing. Professionals in this field work with individuals across the lifespan, from infants with developmental delays to adults recovering from stroke or traumatic brain injuries.

The field encompasses speech-language pathology (SLP), which addresses speech production, language development, fluency, voice, and swallowing disorders, and audiology, which focuses on hearing loss, balance disorders, and auditory rehabilitation.

COMD integrates knowledge from linguistics, neuroscience, psychology, and education to improve communication abilities and enhance quality of life. Practitioners work in diverse settings, including schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private practices.

With a growing demand for speech-language pathologists and audiologists, the field offers rewarding career opportunities while making a profound impact on individuals’ ability to communicate effectively. Research in CSD continues to advance innovative treatments and technologies for those with communication challenges.