Students

Educational requirements:

Every professional journey begins with the right education. Explore programs that offer the coursework, clinical experiences, and support that fit your goals. You can find accredited Speech-Language Pathology, Audiology, and Speech-Language Assistant programs on ASHA’s website, here 

The level of education required to work in the communication sciences field varies by role. Speech-Language Pathologists must earn a master’s degree from an accredited program, while Audiologists are required to earn a doctoral degree (Au.D.) to practice. Speech-Language Assistants typically hold an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and disorders or a related area, along with training and supervision requirements. Each pathway offers unique opportunities to make a difference by helping others to communicate effectively.

During your studies, you’ll take courses that build a strong foundation in speech, language, hearing, and communication sciences. Classes may cover topics such as anatomy and physiology of speech, hearing, and swallowing, language development, audiology, speech sound disorders, cognition, and communication across the lifespan. Most programs include hands-on learning experiences, such as clinical practicums, internships, or supervised fieldwork, where you’ll work directly with clients under professional supervision. These experiences help you apply classroom knowledge to real-world settings and prepare you for certification, licensure, and employment after graduation.

Taking the Praxis Exam 

• The Praxis Speech-Language Pathology exam (5331) is a 150-minute, 132 question, computer-delivered test necessary for ASHA certification and state licensure

• It covers Foundations and Professional Practice; Screening, Assessment, Evaluation, and Diagnosis; and Treatment, requiring a passing score of 162

• The exam is split into 3 content areas:

  • Foundations and Professional Practice: Ethical conduct, legal requirements, and professional issues

  • Screening, Assessment, Evaluation, and Diagnosis: Normal and abnormal communication/swallowing, diagnostics, and etiology

  • Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation of Treatment: Therapy techniques, goal setting, progress monitoring

• Preparation for exam:

  • Best time to take Praxis exam: During the final semester of master’s program or immediately following graduation from master’s program

  • Registration: Done through Educational Testing Service (ETS) Here

  • Study Materials: ETS has a study companion that is most commonly used, you can also complete practice tests online Here