School of Health Professions - Student Handbook 2021-2022


SLHS Technical Standards

Speech-Language and Hearing Sciences Undergraduate Program
Technical Standards
The technical standards of the Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences reflect the functions that are considered essential to the pre-professions of audiology and speech-language pathology.  Ability to meet these technical standards is required for admission to the undergraduate program and must be maintained throughout the time a student is enrolled in the program.  These standards are subject to amendment based on changes in health care/scope of practice.

In keeping with applicable federal and state law regarding disabilities, we are committed to making reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities to enable them to perform successfully in our department.  Any student with a disability who is accepted to the undergraduate program must contact the 504 coordinator in the TTUHSC Office of Student Services as soon as possible.  The coordinator will evaluate the student, confirm that the stated condition qualifies as a disability under applicable laws, and determine what accommodations are reasonable.  

To successfully complete the undergraduate program in the Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, an individual must meet the following technical standards:
  1. Observation
    Observe patients’ activity and behavior accurately during assessment and treatment procedures.

    Accurately monitor, through both visual and auditory modalities, materials and equipment used for assessment and treatment of patients.

  2. Communication
    Communicate professionally (orally and in writing) as required for coursework and clinical practicum to ensure patient safety.

    Use technology to meet requirements of courses and clinical practicum (e.g., computer skills including but not limited to internet access, word processing and spreadsheet programs, learning management systems, and electronic health records).

  3. Cognition
    Comprehend, integrate, and synthesize a large body of information in a short period of time.

    Read, comprehend, record, and interpret information accurately from diagnostic tests, equipment, and patient records to ensure patient safety.

    Accurately self-assess clinical skills and academic performance.

  4. Social Behavioral Skills
    Demonstrate respect for individual, social, and cultural differences in fellow students, faculty, staff, patients, and patients’ families during clinical and academic interactions.

    Demonstrate flexibility and the ability to adjust to changing situations and uncertainty in academic and clinical situations.

    Conduct oneself in an ethical and legal manner, demonstrating honesty, integrity, and professionalism in all interactions and situations.

  5. Motor Skills
    Sustain necessary physical activity level required for classroom and clinical activities during the defined workday.

    Efficiently manipulate testing and treatment environment, materials, and equipment.

    Access transportation to attend academic courses.

I understand and acknowledge that I must meet the technical standards required for this degree program in order to complete the program.