The Department of Communication Disorders and Special Education (CDSE) prepares future clinicians, educators, leaders, researchers and policy makers to serve individuals with developmental, intellectual, emotional, and communication disabilities. It also serves as an exemplary center for educational and clinical research and practice in the disciplines preparing these professionals. CDSE offers ac
credited programs in communication sciences and disorders (speech-language pathology) at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and special education at the graduate level. We operate the Tidewater Scottish Rite Center for Childhood Speech and Language Disorders, a Speech and Hearing Clinic, and the Oral Preschool program. These programs, housed in the Lions Child Study Center, give students valuable practical experience, deliver needed clinical and educational services to community members and provide a focus for innovative faculty and student research. Approximately 250 families are served every year.