An increasing demand for qualified professionals to fill teaching jobs in speech-language pathology has created numerous rewarding and challenging positions in and out of traditional school districts. Speech pathology teachers have a unique skill set that is highly valued for improving the ability of every age group to better use language and communication.
Speech-Language Pathology Jobs in Education
In K-12 schools, speech pathology and language teachers work with students who exhibit difficulties in forming, reading, and acquiring language. These positions are typically support positions with teachers working with students individually or in small groups. In some schools with high demand, speech-language pathology teachers might also lead classrooms. Early childhood development centers and post-secondary institutions are another possibility for finding classroom positions in this teaching specialization.
In addition to classroom teaching, speech-language pathology teachers also might choose to pursue positions in administrative roles. Positions in these roles might include speech program curriculum development, assessment and evaluation, and director of special programs. These positions are also likely to be available at the school district level in addition to individual school buildings.
Speech-Language Pathology Jobs in Health Care
Like physical therapists, speech-language pathology teachers might also set up a private practice or work with an established firm in order to meet with clients separately from a school setting. These positions might also require additional licensing and certification in addition to that required for teaching. By individual state. Speech-language pathology teachers might also work as consultants, contracting with school districts or other types of organizations to diagnose, evaluate, and assess individuals for various treatments and techniques to make improvements with language use. Other positions might also be found in hospitals and long-term care facilities.
Speech-Language Pathology Jobs in Research
Government agencies and non-profit, education-based organizations also have a need for qualified professionals in speech-language pathology. In many of these positions, research is conducted in order to determine causes and develop techniques for working with individuals who have speech-language difficulties. These research positions will more than likely require a doctorate level graduate degree completion as well.
Much research in speech-language pathology is also focused on second languages. As more and more speakers of other languages become a part of the educational system and workforce in the United States, understanding the unique needs of language acquisition is a must. This demand has also increased the need for researchers in education, government, and other organizations.
More Jobs for Speech-Language Pathology Teachers
Additional information on career options for speech-language pathology teachers can be found on the Career page of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association website. To begin planning a career in this field, future professionals should begin by planning an undergraduate degree that will help to prepare for completion of a master’s degree in speech and language pathology. Classroom teachers will also be required to complete the requirements for state licensing.
Related Resource: Special Education Jobs
Although often requiring advanced degree work and special state licensing and certification, the growing demand for qualified professionals in the field of speech pathology will likely provide prospective teachers in this area with a number of career possibilities. From working with children to adults, teaching jobs in speech-language pathology in education, health care, research, and consulting firms are all rewarding and in-demand options.
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