Speech-Language Pathologist Career & Jobs: Training, Salary & Certification Requirements

One of the things that set humans apart from the animal kingdom is the fact that we have developed complex communication systems involving languages, dialects, body language, and situational and generational customs. Knowing how these systems interact is what makes a human an active member of society. Not being able to develop your understanding of language correctly or having difficulties with your voice is usually a hindrance from becoming a well adjusted member of society. If an adult or child is suspected of having a problem speaking, mastering their native language or a brain disorder that makes speech difficult, it is usually a problem that must be examined by a well trained speech-language pathologist. It is the responsibility of the speech-language pathologist to interview each of their patients and decide which method of treatment will be right for them.

Salary Outlook

Average Annual Salary
$51,500
Salary Range
$42,100 - $58,300

Work Environment

It is most common for speech-language pathologists to work in hospitals or research universities where they have access to both their patients and the technology they need to teach them to communicate effectively. In other cases speech-language pathologists are employed at private speech therapy clinics, nursing homes, ear, nose and throat practices, and research laboratories.

High School Preparation

Those individuals who think that they would enjoy the work of a speech-language pathologist are encouraged to spend their high school career expanding their knowledge of biology, anatomy and speech therapy technology. Supporting courses for this line of work include physics, chemistry, sociology, computer skills, social studies, psychology, and speech.

Requirements

After completion of their high school studies, those who would like to go on to pursue the career of a speech-language pathologist are required to obtain an undergraduate in an appropriate liberal arts major from an accredited college or university. Following their undergraduate studies, it is necessary for students to be accepted into a speech pathology program at the master’s level. These programs are particularly competitive and typically only those with the best undergraduate grades and experience are admitted. Before they complete their post-graduate studies, students are required to complete a number of hours in an internship setting and must successfully complete the certification examination administered by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.

Career Outlook

Those that are interested in pursuing a career as a speech-language pathologist will be pleased to learn that many experts agree that the number of jobs available for qualified applicants will increase by at least twenty percent over the next few years. This demand increase is attributed to the growing elderly population which is the most likely to develop moderate to serious hearing and speaking issues.

Professional Organizations

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
10801 Rockville Pike
Rockville, MD 20852
Phone: (888) 321-ASHA
www.asha.org