Speech-Language Pathologist

Also called: Speech Therapist

Helps people with speech, language, and swallowing problems—from toddlers to stroke survivors.

A day in the life

Plays word games with a 4-year-old who stutters, then helps a stroke patient practice saying simple words again.

Pay over a career

Starting
$60k
Typical
$95k
High
$135k

BLS May 2024 (approx).

Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.

Training

Master's degree, about 6 years after high school. Master's in speech-language pathology plus state license.

Ways in: 4-year college, Graduate school, Certification. Training cost: $60k – $150k.

Majors to look at: Communication Sciences & Disorders, Linguistics, Psychology.

Outlook

Growing much faster than average (about 15% over 10 years). BLS 2024-34 (approx).

Will it last? Our AI estimate

Low risk for 10 years. AI apps help practice at home, but licensed therapy with toddlers and stroke patients stays hands-on.

Start now, in high school

Classes: AP Biology, AP Psychology, Anatomy.

Official data: O*NET occupation 29-1127.

More Linguistics & Language Science careers

Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.