Speech Pathologist

Exam

Third-party exam

Education

Degree

Experience

Experience

Background check

None

DESCRIPTION OF OCCUPATION: A Speech Pathologist observes and tests persons to identify the presence of speech problems, problems with stuttering, problems understanding and producing language, and oral motor problems that cause swallowing or speech production difficulties. They may teach how to make sounds, increase language skills, or use automated devices and sign language. REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSING: Two methods of licensure are available. Persons may be licensed by holding the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) or by meeting the experience and education requirements listed below and taking the exam. Experience requirements: 1) Completion of 375 hours of supervised clinical observation and clinical practicum who present a variety of communication disorders, which experience shall have been obtained within the applicant's training institution or in one of its cooperating programs. 2) Completion of a clinical fellowship that began after academic coursework and clinical observation and clinical practicum were completed. The fellowship shall have consisted of at least 36 weeks of full-time professional experience or its part-time equivalent under the supervision of an individual possessing the ASHA CCC in speech pathology. 3) Submit 3 letters of recommendation from your supervisors or colleagues. Education requirements: Master's degree in Speech Pathology from a college or university that is accredited by a regional or specialized accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. EXAMINATIONS: PRAXIS II Specialty Area Test in Speech Pathology administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS). FEES: In 2022, pay $264 (application $50, license $76, compliance resolution fund $100, ½ renewal for 2nd year of 2-year license $38). In 2023, pay $176 (application $50, license $76, compliance resolution fund $50). OTHER: There were 489 licenses currently active as of February 24, 2022. ~ revised 01/22