Speech-Language Pathologist

What They Do:

Speech-Language Pathologists assess, diagnose, treat, and help to prevent communication and swallowing disorders in children and adults. SLPs work with patients on a broad range of physical and cognitive communication disorders including issues with articulation (how words are pronounced), stuttering, word finding, phonics, vocalization, and swallowing. These disorders have a variety of causes such as autism, stroke, brain injury, hearing loss, developmental delay, cleft palate, and psychological issues. SLPs are typically part of a rehabilitation team that also includes physical therapists, occupational therapists, audiologist, and psychologists.

Also Known As:

Bilingual Speech-Language Pathologist, Communication Specialist, Educational Speech-Language Clinician, Speech Pathologist, Speech Therapist, Speech and Hearing Handicapped Teacher, Speech and Language Clinician, Speech and Language Specialist, Speech and Language Therapist, Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP)

Minimum Education Requirements:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent
• Bachelor's Degree: 4 years
• Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology related program: 2-4 years
• Upon completion of schooling, a career in this field requires licensing and certification.

Career Info Sources Include:

• Career One Stop
• Bureau of Labor Statistics