Eligibility
To take up a graduation in this field the applicants should have passed the pre-university course from a recognized institution. Both the speech pathologists and the audiologists should have an obtained a graduation in their respective field to pursue a career in this discipline.
Admission to the 2 year post graduate courses requires a graduation in speech language pathology and audiology. Besides the undergraduate/ post graduate courses, several institutes offer diploma courses of varying durations.
The course, which varies according to university, includes intensive study of core theoretical components underpinning competence to practice [Clinical Phonetics], Linguistics, Psychology and Medical science, in addition to the study of a range of communicative disorders in children and adults. Students are also expected to become familiar with a range of policies, processes and procedures relevant to working in different contexts, including health and education. The course requires students to complete a certain amount of hours of clinical placement, although the structure of placement differs from course to course.
Speech and Language Therapists in the UK are required by law to register with the Health Professions Council, a regulatory body governing a range of health professions. In the United States, the minimal requirements to be a certified SLP member of the American Speech-Language Hearing Association were a graduate degree in Speech-Language Pathology, which typically entails 2 years of post graduate work; a completed clinical fellowship year, which is generally employment for a year while supervised by a practicing SLP who is also ASHA certified; and passing the Praxis Series examination. In Australia, Speech Pathologists either undertake a four year undergraduate degree, or a two year Masters degree to qualify. To be eligible for optional membership of Speech Pathology Australia, students must study in one of the accredited courses outlined on their website. All degrees include a heavy clinical component, and many also include a research component in final year. Registration is only required in the state of Queensland, and membership of the professional organization is optional, although it is encouraged. Apart from academic qualifications they must have exceptional skills in observation, concentration, and record keeping.
Institutes : Click here for more information
