What is speech language pathology?

What is speech-language pathology?

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.
Cal State East Bay offers an 3-Year Bridge 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 Cal State East Bay, 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 Clinical Fellowships 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

Important Notes

Admission to the program does not guarantee licensure, certification, or credentialing.