Speech Pathologists and Audiologists

Speech Pathologists and Audiologists help people, both adults and children, with speech, language, or hearing problems by determining existence of a disorder and then providing treatment. Duties vary with education, experience, and employment setting. They may conduct programs to improve communication skills, provide counseling, teach, or direct research. Speech Pathologists may specialize in diagnosis and treatment of speech and language problems.

Audiologists specialize in diagnostic evaluation of hearing, prevention, and rehabilitative and rehabilitative services for auditory problems.

Salary and Employment Outlook:

EDD Labor Market Information

Occupational Outlook Handbook

Career Info Net

Typical Employers:

Speech pathologists and audiologists work in hospitals, clinics, colleges, private and public schools, and some are in private practice. In government, they are employed in correctional facilities, community organizations, the Peace Corps (federal government) and in health departments.

Preparation:

Speech Pathologists and Audiologists must complete graduate studies in Speech Pathology or Audiology. A master's degree is required by the federal government, in most states and by most public schools, private clinics, and federal programs. Pre-professional undergraduate programs in Speech Pathology and Audiology are available at several state colleges and universities. Graduate work, which is essential for full participation in the profession, is also available at many state colleges.

Educational Program(s):

• Speech
• Speech Pathology and Audiology

Related Programs: Early Childhood Education, English And Literature, Rehabilitation Services, Special Education

Web Resources:

EDD Labor Market Information

Occupational Outlook Handbook

O*Net

Career Info Net

Speech Language Pathologist

Career Zone

American Speech Language Hearing Association

Academy of Audiology