Career Profile Speech-Language Pathologists Education Postgraduate degree This is the typical education required for an entry-level position. Earnings $84,800 This is the typical median salary earned for an entry-level position. Speech-language pathologists assess, diagnose, treat, and help to prevent communication and swallowing disorders in children and adults. General Information Assess and treat persons with speech, language, voice, and fluency disorders. May select alternative communication systems and teach their use. May perform research related to speech and language problems. Watch a brief video about this occupation. Watch Video Speech-Language Pathologists Occupational Outlook For the Rural Capital Area 54 Job Opportunities Over the next five years, an average of 54 openings per year are projected for Speech-Language Pathologists. +20.8% Employment Change Employment for Speech-Language Pathologists is forecasted to increase significantly more than the regional average by 20.8% between 2023 and 2028. $40.78 Earnings Potential An average worker in this occupation is paid $40.78/hour. Entry level workers are paid $32.39, while experienced workers are paid $47.68. The median wage is significantly above average regional wages across occupations. Local Employment Opportunities There are 480 Speech-Language Pathologists in the RCA region. By 2028 this number could reach 580. Top Employing Industries, Locally The top industries employing Speech-Language Pathologists are Elementary and Secondary Schools, Offices of Other Health Practitioners, and General Medical and Surgical Hospitals. Knowledge Areas The top most significant knowledge categories for Speech-Language Pathologists include English Language, Education and Training, and Customer and Personal Service. Educational Attainment Patterns The most common level of education for Speech-Language Pathologists is Postgraduate degree. 100% of people employed in these roles have some form of college degree. Sources: BLS JobsEQ® ONET
