Explore Careers in Speech-Language and Hearing

Pursuing a speech-language pathology or audiology career offers personal fulfillment and the chance to make a lasting impact. Communication disorders touch countless lives, and chances are, someone close to you has faced these challenges. A career in these fields opens the door to life-changing moments, like helping a child speak their first word, supporting an adult in regaining confidence after a stroke, or enabling someone to hear the voices of their loved ones. As a speech-language pathologist or audiologist, you will work with people across their lifespans, addressing communication disorders such as language delays, speech disorders, swallowing difficulties, or hearing loss. The work you will do will improve lives, and you will create opportunities for more enriched human connections for those you will serve.

An exciting aspect of these fields is that they are growing rapidly with the population aging and better awareness of communication disorders. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, speech-language pathologist job growth is expected to be about 18.4% between 2023 and 2033, and audiology employment growth is expected to be around 13% from 2023 to 2033. These projections are strong and are supported by broad work settings, with placements available in schools, hospitals, and private practice.

Studying speech-language pathology or audiology in graduate school can lead to a meaningful career that combines evidence-based practice, care, and creativity. You’ll get real-world experience through clinical work, learning how to help people with speech, language, and hearing problems. The goal is to improve lives by helping others communicate and connect. If you want to make a difference, these fields offer a rewarding way to change lives daily.