How difficult is to become a Speech Pathologist?

How do you become a speech pathologist?

• Answer:

  You have to work really hard during your undergrad program, because the graduate programs are so competitive, that you may not get in. There were a LOT of people in my undergrad program that didn't make it into grad school. Getting into grad school means getting a really good score on the GRE test, and getting letters of recommendation from your professors. This program also involves a lot of practicum time at both the undergraduate and graduate level. You have to work in different areas of study with different age groups, and gain experience in actual therapy as well as testing. This means working on-site at hospitals, nursing homes, schools, audiology clinics, pediatric clinics, and possibly more. If you survive all of this (only 2 C's are allowed during this program), at the end of graduate school, you take a NESPA exam. Some schools require board exams as well. Once those are passed, you get your masters degree. This entitles you to begin the clinical fellowship program under the supervision of a licensed, certified SLP. That program lasts 9 months. If you do well, at the end of it, you become certified with the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association (ASHA), once you pay your professional dues. State licensure varies from state to state, but some require a test. Both ASHA and state licensing boards require continuing education. It's a lot of work to get into the field, but if you love it (as I do), it's well worth it. You can find out more information at: www.asha.org Good luck!