What is speech-language pathology, or SLP?
Speech-language pathology is a healthcare and educational field focused on the assessment and treatment of communication and swallowing disorders.
Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) work with individuals across the lifespan to address challenges related to:
- Speech (articulation, fluency, voice)
- Language (understanding and expressing ideas)
- Social communication
- Cognitive-communication (e.g., memory, problem-solving)
- Swallowing (dysphagia)
SLPs work in a variety of settings, including:
- Schools
- Hospitals
- Rehabilitation centers
- Community clinics
- Private practice
Why become an SLP?
This profession combines communication, problem-solving, and helping others.
Key benefits of the field include:
- Helping individuals improve their ability to communicate and participate in daily life
- Working with children or adults in medical, educational, or private settings
- High current job demand and predicted future increase in number of jobs
- A strong salary right out of school
- High demand for clinicians who are bilingual and/or come from minoritized social groups
In addition to clinical work, SLPs may also:
- Conduct research on communication development and disorders
- Collaborate with educators, physicians, and other professionals
- Advocate for individuals with communication needs
How do I become an SLP?
Becoming a licensed SLP involves completing graduate education, clinical training, and professional certification.
Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
While many applicants have a background in communication disorders, students with other degrees can apply by completing required prerequisite coursework.
ÂãÁÄÖ±²¥ offers an
Extended Graduate Program for students who need this preparation.
However, students with other majors can also complete an SLP prep program.
Step 2: Complete a Master’s Degree
A Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology is required for licensure.
At ÂãÁÄÖ±²¥, the Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences (SLHS) offers two Master's degree programs:
Graduates of the M.S. program are prepared to apply for California state licensure, the ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence, and the California Teacher’s Commission Speech-Language Pathology Services credential. The graduate programs are accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
Step 3: Gain Clinical Experience
Graduate students complete extensive hands-on training, including:
- Supervised clinical practicum experiences
- Off-campus internships
These experiences prepare students to work with a wide range of clients and settings.
Step 4: Clinical Fellowship
After earning a Master’s degree, graduates must complete a Clinical Fellowship.
As a Clinical Fellow, you must
- Work at least 36 weeks
- And complete 1,260 hours to meet the ASHA CF experience requirement.
Detailed information about can be found on the American Speech-Language Hearing Association website.
Step 5: Apply for Licensure and Certification
After earning a Master’s degree, graduates are prepared to apply for:
- California state licensure
- ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP)
- California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) SLP Services Credential