How do I prepare for a Speech Language Pathology or Audiology Career while I am in high school?

During high school, prospective speech language pathologists might consider a program with courses in biology, physics, social sciences, English, and mathematics, as well as in public speaking, language, and psychology.

How do I prepare for a Speech Language Pathology or Audiology Career while I am in college?

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
A bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and disorders or a related major with an emphasis in arts and science are commonly acceptable to be admitted into a speech language pathology master’s program. Coursework in linguistics, phonetics, psychology, math, and general science are typical classes one would take. The student should contact the school to insure that the required prerequisites are achieved to be admitted into the master’s degree program.
Earn a Master’s Degree
A master’s degree that is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech Language Pathology (CAA) is required for students pursuing a career within the speech pathology field. This degree is considered entry-level.

For more information relevant to students: Speech Pathology Masters Programs

How do I obtain a Speech Language Pathology or Audiology License In New Hampshire?

Where can I find an education program?

Differences Between and SLPs and an SLSs

What is an SLP and what do they do?

An SLP is a speech-language pathologist who has a master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology or Communication Disorders and a state license.

An SLP may also have a Certificate of Clinical Competence from ASHA and a certification from the NH Department of Education. SLP’s work in a variety of settings.

What is a Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC)?

A Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC)the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) is a nationally recognized professional credential that represents a level of excellence in the field of Audiology or Speech-Language Pathology. Those who have achieved the CCC—ASHA certification—have voluntarily met rigorous academic and professional standards, typically going beyond the minimum requirements for state licensure.

What is an SLS and what do they do?

Speech Language Specialists are certified by the NH Department of Education and may have a master’s degree in Speech Language Pathology or Communication Disorders and may have a state license. Speech Language Specialists work in Public Schools (preschool through 12th grade).

Both SLPs and SLSs display a wide knowledge basis and treat many conditions:

• Speech Therapy: Articulation / Phonology, Dyspraxia, Voice Disorders, Stuttering
• Language Therapy: Language Learning Disabilities, Language Disorders in Early Childhood
• Deaf and Hard of Hearing / Aural Habilitation
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Aphasia, Cognitive Rehabilitation
• Motor Speech Disorders; syndromes related to neurological functioning
• Swallowing Disorders

We invite you to contact the NHSLHA with any questions.

How to become a Student Member of the NHSLHA. Student membership gives the right to receive Association publications, serve on Association committees, and to participate in Association functions at membership rates.