June 9 - August 5, 2008
Denver, Colorado

The 2008 Summer Vocology Institute is now complete. Consider becoming a part of the SVI in 2009! 

The Summer Vocology Institute is a unique opportunity that provides both a substantial background in Vocology and related topics as well as real world experience at applying the concepts in a laboratory, performance, and health services setting. Fully integrated into the Denver Center for Performing Arts, a highly trained staff, diverse student population, and access to world class laboratory facilities and the clinical staff of the Center for Voice and Swallowing Services yield a learning environment second to none.

The Summer Vocology Institute offers ...

• The University of Iowa vocology specialty training
• Up to 9 graduate credit hours in voice
• Accelerated curriculum to meet the needs of working professionals and graduate students

Download the 2008 brochure (in pdf).

Philosophy
The SVI was developed as an intensive, efficient and innovative way to learn vocology, the science and practice of voice habilitation. It is sponsored by The University of Iowa Center for Credit Programs, National Center for Voice and Speech, and the Denver Center for the Performing Arts.

A vocologist is any person who habilitates vocal behavior - a speech-language pathologist, otolaryngologist, singing teacher or voice coach. Vocology has evolved recently from inter-relationships between speech science, medicine, theatre training and vocal pedagogy, and as such, is not widely taught in academic institutions as an independent discipline. At the present time, only The University of Iowa has a formalized curriculum in vocology, taught as a specialty track in speech-language pathology. Due to enrollment limitations, however, the program can only be offered to two or three vocology candidates per year.

In contrast to the limited supply of trained vocologists, demand for their professional services is rising. Voice centers in the United States report an increasing caseload of patients needing the expertise of clinicians specially trained in voice. These people turn to voice centers either for rehabilitation and the return of functional voice or to benefit professionally from vocal habilitation by learning to optimize the efficiency and effectiveness of their speaking voices.

Eligibility
The Summer Vocology Institute's philosophy combines high standards with flexibility. Just as vocology has evolved from a number of disciplines, participants from a wide variety of backgrounds will be considered. Likewise, participants from various professional levels are welcomed. Students enrolled in graduate programs from any accredited institution are eligible and can earn graduate credits. Other participants will be those who have already earned their professional degrees, but would like to add vocology to their knowledge bases. SVI is open to interested individuals within the United States and abroad. Enrollment will be limited to ensure close interaction between faculty and course participants.

Location
The SVI courses will be hosted at the NCVS location at The Denver Center for the Performing Arts in Denver, Colorado; where the NCVS is a division of the DCPA.  The SVI's direct affiliation with a performing arts center lends credibility to the training of professionals by professionals. Additionally, the population of Denver offers participants a diverse clientele for clinical services and training. Finally, the geographical beauty of the Rocky Mountains offers an inspiring location to learn the science and art of vocology. Participants are encouraged to have their families and friends visit during free evenings and weekends to take advantage of Denver's many opportunities.