Specialization (9 credits)

  • The Deafness Specialty Program (D.S.P.) is a graduate-level sequence that prepares professionals to work with individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing across the lifespan.
  • The three-course sequence examines the social, cognitive, linguistic, and cultural factors that influence overall development and communication development. 
  • Become prepared to interact with children and families who are linguistically and culturally diverse and who use a wide range of communication methods and strategies including listening and spoken language, visually supported spoken language (Cued Speech and sign-supported speech), and American Sign Language.
  • The Deafness Specialty Program is open to graduate-level matriculated and non-matriculated students in speech-language pathology and inclusive childhood or adolescence education. 
  • Practicing professionals in a variety of disciplines can pursue the concentration as non-matriculated students for continuing education credits at half the price of regular course tuition to get a continuing education certificate. Fill out the Deafness Specialty Course Approval form.

D.S.P. is Ideal For

  • Matriculated or non-matriculated graduate-level students seeking a specialization in deafness, including individuals pursuing degrees in speech-language pathology, and inclusive childhood or adolescent education.
  • Certified teachers or speech-language pathologists seeking additional education for teaching students who are deaf or hard of hearing

Career Information

  • Half of speech language pathologists in schools have at least one deaf or hard of hearing child on their caseload, according to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association's 2014 Schools Survey.
  • There is a continued shortage of highly qualified professionals with the knowledge and skills in evidence-based practices to support individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.
  • Recent employment data on graduates with this specialization indicates that employers recognize the value of this certification and are seeking professionals who have this specialized knowledge.

What to Expect

  • Three specific courses are required (detailed below under curriculum), offered in the evening during the fall, spring, and summer semesters.
  • Practicum opportunities with children and adults who are deaf or hard of hearing, for matriculated students
  • Receive a local certificate of specialization in deafness from Nazareth College upon completion
  • Earn continuing education units or professional development credits upon completion

Curriculum (9 credits)

  • Language and Communication in Deaf or Hard of Hearing Children: Birth to Five
  • Language and Communication in Deaf or Hard of Hearing Students: School-Age and Beyond
  • Facilitating Language & Communication Through Technology for Persons Who Are Deaf/Hard of Hearing

Registration process

  • Current Nazareth students: Talk to your academic program director to determine whether you are eligible to enroll in this program.
  • Non-matriculated students: Fill out the Deafness Specialty Course Approval Form.
  • Registration occurs on a rolling basis. Starting classes in the fall is recommended.
  • If you have questions, contact the D.S.P. directors listed on this page.

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