About Communication Sciences & Disorders (Speech-Language Pathology)

What is Communication Sciences and Disorders (Speech-Language Pathology)?

• Communication Sciences and Disorders is a program that prepares students to become certified Speech-Language Pathologists. The program prepares a student for a profession dedicated to the development and improvement of skills for individuals with communication difficulties, including aphasia, dysarthria, apraxia, cognitive deficits, dysphagia, articulation, phonologic, voice, fluency, as well as other developmental speech and language deficits.

How Do I Become a Certified Speech-Language Pathologist?

• In order to become a certified speech-language pathologist, you need to have attained a Master's degree, pass the national examination in speech-language pathology, and complete a nine month Clinical Fellowship.

What Kind of Employment Opportunities are Available to Certified Graduates of the Program?

• Once you are certified, you will be prepared and accredited to work with individuals of all ages and disorders, in private practice, institutional settings (schools, hospitals, etc.), or a combination of both.

What is ASHA?

• The governing body of all speech-language pathologists is the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). This organization provides the standards and ethics by which we practice within our discipline.

What Other Professional Organizations Support Speech-Language Pathologists?

• Speech-language pathologists can also participate in local and state organizations such as the Pennsylvania Speech-Language-Hearing Association (PSHA) and the Northeastern Speech-Language-Hearing Association of Pennsylvania (NESHAP). You can also participate in or become a member of local agencies, clubs, and support groups.