- What is a speech, language, and hearing scientist?
- What does a speech, language, and hearing scientist earn?
- How can I find an academic program in speech, language, and hearing sciences?
- Where can I find financial aid information?
- How can I volunteer or find summer employment opportunities?
- How can national NSSLHA help me as a speech, language, and hearing science student?
- Resources
1. What is a speech, language, and hearing scientist?
Providing the research on which clinicians base their methodology, speech, language, and hearing scientists:
- Explore trends in communication sciences. Develop strategies for expanding the knowledge base in their field.
- Investigate the biological, physical, and physiological processes of communication.
- Explore the impact of psychological, social, and other factors on communication disorders.
- Develop evidence-based methods for diagnosing and treating individuals with speech, voice, language, and hearing problems.
- Collaborate with related professionals (such as engineers, physicians, dentists, psychologists, and educators).
In addition, researchers may:
- Train future professionals and scientists in colleges and universities.
- Conduct research at or consult with universities, hospitals, government health agencies, and industries.
As with audiologists and speech-language pathologists, research scientists are educated in their specific field of interest. However, while clinicians can practice with a master's degree or clinical doctorate, scientists must earn a research doctorate. Some researchers do not hold ASHA's Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC), because the credential is not required for research within a laboratory. However, those conducting data-based research in some employment settings (such as colleges and universities) and those involved with training future professionals do become certified.
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2. What does a speech, language, and hearing scientist earn?
The salaries of speech, language, and hearing scientists vary widely depending on their experience, work setting, and geographical location. Benefits such as insurance, leave, and professional development are usually very competitive. There is a great need for scientists and college professors -especially those with diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds. If you're willing to invest in the needed education, your career can be very rewarding. Speech-language pathologists often work as part of a team, which may include teachers, physicians, audiologists, psychologists, social workers, rehabilitation counselors, and others. Corporate speech-language pathologists also work with employees to improve communication with their customers.
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3. How can I find an academic program in speech, language, and hearing sciences?
The National Academy of Preprofessional Programs in Communication Sciences and Disorders (NAPP) maintains a list of undergrdaute programs in audiology. For more information, contact the NAPP president, Bertha Smith Clark, PhD, Department of Speech and Theatre, Area of Communication Disorders, Box 309, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37132; 615-898-2640; bclark@frank.mtsu.edu. Visit NAPP's Web site.
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4. Where can I find financial aid information?
Financial aid information for students interested in CSD is available through for following sources:
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5. How can I volunteer or find summer employment opportunities?
Volunteer and summer employment opportunities for students are available through the following sources:
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6. How can national NSSLHA help me as a speech, language, and hearing science student?
National NSSLHA provides pre-professional benefits and services to students interested in a career in communication science disorders. National NSSLHA provides students with:
- Advocacy: Connect with the Regional Councilor in your area to share concerns about matters affecting CSD students or to suggest ideas for content at conventions or content for student-publications.
- E-mail Announcements: National NSSLHA members receive a monthly email bulletin with information about grants, scholarships, career opportunities, workshops, and seminars for students.
- Membership Benefits and Services: As you advance in your academic study you will find membership in the national association more valuable.
- Networking: Connect with other students in your area by interacting with the NSSLHA chapter in your region.
- Newsletters & Publications: As a high school student you can subscribe for a complimentary subscription to our newsletter News & Notes or get a copy of the NSSLHA CSD Survival Guide. This publication will provide you with introductory information to prepare you for your academic study in communication sciences and disorders.
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7. Resources
Want to learn more about the profession of speech, language, and hearing science? Try these resources:
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