Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) Career Guide
Everything you need to know about becoming an SLP — from graduate school and CCC-SLP certification to salary data and career growth.
What Is a Speech-Language Pathologist?
A Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) diagnoses and treats communication and swallowing disorders in children and adults. SLPs work with clients who have speech delays, language disorders, voice problems, fluency issues, and feeding or swallowing difficulties (dysphagia). They practice in schools, hospitals, outpatient clinics, and home health settings.
Job Outlook
SLP employment is projected to grow 19% through 2032 — significantly faster than average. Demand comes from aging adults with neurological conditions, children with developmental speech delays, and the expansion of teletherapy.
How to Become a Speech-Language Pathologist
- 1Earn a bachelor's degree in communication sciences or related fieldMost SLP master's programs require a bachelor's in communication sciences and disorders, linguistics, psychology, or a related field.
- 2Complete an accredited SLP master's programA master's degree from a CAA-accredited program is required for ASHA certification and state licensure. Programs take 2 years and include 400+ clinical hours.
- 3Complete a Clinical Fellowship (CF)After graduation, SLPs must complete a 36-week, full-time Clinical Fellowship under the supervision of a certified SLP before earning independent certification.
- 4Pass the Praxis exam and obtain CCC-SLPThe Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) from ASHA requires passing the Praxis exam and completing the CF year.
- 5Obtain state licensureEvery state requires SLP licensure. Requirements vary but typically include the Praxis exam, CCC-SLP credential, and state-specific background check.
Required Skills
- ✓Speech and language assessment
- ✓Articulation and phonology therapy
- ✓Language intervention and AAC
- ✓Dysphagia evaluation and treatment
- ✓Fluency (stuttering) therapy
- ✓Voice disorder treatment
- ✓Report writing and documentation
- ✓Collaboration with educators, OTs, and medical teams
Certifications
- →ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP) (required)
- →State SLP licensure (required)
- →CPR / First Aid
- →BCS-S — Board Certified Specialist in Swallowing (optional)
- →Teletherapy certification (optional)
Why Work as a SLP at OneWell Healthcare?
Speech-Language Pathologist Jobs by State
Click a state to see salary data, local requirements, and open positions near you.
Open Speech-Language Pathologist Positions at OneWell
29 active openings — updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about working as a SLP.
What does a Speech-Language Pathologist do?
SLPs evaluate and treat communication disorders including speech sound disorders, language delays, stuttering, voice problems, and swallowing difficulties. They work with clients across the lifespan from newborns to the elderly.
How long does it take to become an SLP?
Becoming an SLP typically takes 6–7 years: 4 years for a bachelor's degree, 2 years for a master's program, plus a 36-week Clinical Fellowship before earning your CCC-SLP.
How much does an SLP earn?
The national average SLP salary is approximately $86,000 per year. Home health SLPs often earn more due to productivity pay. Specializing in dysphagia or AAC can increase earning potential to $95,000+.
Can SLPs work from home?
Yes. Teletherapy has expanded significantly. Many SLPs now provide online speech therapy sessions for children and adults, offering excellent schedule flexibility.
Ready to Start Your SLP Career?
Join OneWell Healthcare — 29 open positions available across 1 states. Apply today and make a difference.
View All SLP Jobs →