Speech Language Pathologist

To be a successful Speech-Language Pathologist you should…

• enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds
• have excellent oral and written communication skills
• be flexible and creative in problem-solving
• have an interest in and aptitude for science and technology
• be patient, compassionate, and empathetic

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What will my job be like?

Speech-language pathologists assess and treat persons with speech, language, and communication problems, including articulation, voice, fluency, and swallowing disorders. These disorders could be a result of a variety of medical and developmental conditions, including hearing loss, stroke, cerebral palsy, autism, head injury, and mental retardation. They may select and teach the use of augmentative and alternative communication systems for individuals who are not able to speak. A speech-language pathologist may perform research related to speech, language, and communication problems.

Where could I work?

Speech-language pathologists work in public and private schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, clinics, early intervention agencies, and nursing homes. They may also be self-employed in private practice.

Other workplace settings:

• Public Health Departments
• Speech and Hearing Centers

What is the average annual salary?

$93,300

What is the future of this career?

Employment of speech-language pathologists is projected to grow 18 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations. As the large baby-boom population grows older, there will be more instances of health conditions that can cause speech or language impairments, such as strokes or dementia.

What type of education and/or training do I need?

A speech-language pathologist acquires a master’s degree after earning a bachelor’s degree in one of the scientific disciplines or in speech pathology.

Where can I get the education and/or training?

• Sacred Heart University, Fairfield
• Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven

Do I need a license or certification for this career?

Licensure is required in the state of Connecticut. Prerequisite: In addition to a master’s degree or equivalent in speech pathology, an acceptable supervised professional experience period is required. NTE Specialty Area Test in Speech Pathology or current Certificate of Clinical Competency in Speech Pathology is also required.

Where can I get more information?