Though most speech-language-hearing sciences master's programs will accept students from any discipline, it is beneficial to pursue an undergraduate degree in communication disorders studies, speech-language-hearing sciences or a closely related field. Those who have not completed the basic undergraduate courses will be required to take them, paying graduate school tuition rates.
Undergraduates studying speech-language-hearing sciences or communication sciences and disorders will have a broad introduction to the field. Coursework includes but is not limited to the physics and biology of spoken language, an introduction to phonetics, an introduction to speech and hearing science and the anatomy and physiology of spoken language. Additionally, undergraduates will likely need to complete the general education requirement as required by their home institution.
In order to be certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association in clinical competence, prospective speech therapists must attain either a master's or doctorate degree in audiology, speech-language pathology, speech-language-hearing science or a closely related program.
Most states have their own licensure standards, and after attaining a graduate degree potential therapists must complete these requirements. Additionally, graduates must hold the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC). This is a nationally regulated certificate that standardizes the requirements to become a practicing speech therapist. The CCC requirements are often more rigorous than the state licensure program.
Speech-language pathologists are needed in a variety of fields. Common workplaces include schools, hospitals and rehabilitation centers. Speech-language pathologists work with a wide range of people, from very young children to the elderly. Speech-language professionals must be patient, tolerant and persistent, additionally ideal candidates will have a desire to help people.