The most human of all attributes is the ability to communicate. The discipline of Speech, Language and Hearing Science seeks to understand this ability, the consequences of impairments in the ability to communicate, and the optimum strategies for identifying, reducing, and preventing communication impairment.  The disciplines encompass the developmental, physiological, cognitive, neurological, and pragmatic aspects of human communication. 

The Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences provides undergraduate and graduate programs focused on engaging students in the acquisition and application of knowledge of human communication and its disorders. Whether learning about communication sciences or the relationship between language and society, students studying speech, language and hearing sciences receive in-depth knowledge of all aspects of communication, including the consequences of speech, language and hearing challenges on individuals and society and the treatment of communication impairments.

The department encourages student-faculty partnerships as part of its mission to educate students, promote a culture of research in speech and hearing, and provide the best services possible through the Speech and Hearing Center. The department's location in the heart of Washington, D.C., affords students the opportunity to be placed in nationally renowned hospitals and clinics and public school systems.

The master's (M.A.) education program in speech-language pathology at George Washington University is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, 2200 Research Boulevard #310, Rockville, Maryland 20850, (800) 498-2071 or (301) 296-5700.

The departmental strategic plan includes objectives consistent with The George Washington University Strategic Plan.  The leadership team of the department, along with faculty input, develops objectives, which support department progress over time and in support of the goals of the Department and University.