Speech Pathology and Audiology
Program Overview
Undergraduate
Program Type: Major
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Speech Pathology and Audiology
College: College of Sciences
Program Duration: 4 Years
Graduate
Program Type: Major
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Speech Pathology and Audiology
College: College of Sciences
Program Duration: 4 Years
Courses and Curriculum
It's a Major Thing: Speech Pathology and Audiology
Speech Pathology and Audiology major Audrey Tingle gives an inside look at what it’s like to be in this program.
Why West Liberty?
"I love the unity and willing to help one another, as well as knowing you are more than just a student in the CSD department."
Careers
An Audiologist is a healthcare professional that assesses, treats, and (re)habilitates hearing, balance, and other related disorders for patients of all ages. They provide patient-centered care to prevent, identify, diagnose, and provide evidence-based treatment. Audiologists promote healthy hearing and communication to improve outcomes and the quality of life for each unique patient. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) states within the scope of practice that Audiologists are to have the knowledge of existing and emerging technologies for treatment as well as the interpersonal skills to counsel patients and families through the rehabilitative process. Audiologists are employed in various settings such as: public/private school systems, private practices, hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, colleges/universities, residential healthcare facilities, state and local health departments, state and federal government agencies, and research facilities.
Employment of audiologists is projected to grow 11 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.
The median annual wage for this group was $87,740 in May 2023, which was higher than the median annual wage for all occupations of $48,060.
A Speech-Language Pathologist is a healthcare professional who helps patients with communication problems and/or disorders such as speech production, fluency, language, cognition, articulation, voice, resonance, swallowing, and hearing. SLPs work directly with patients who have experienced strokes, seizures, brain trauma, or any other underlying trauma to aid in regaining lost language and speech. They engage in research to enhance knowledge about human communication disorders and counsel individuals and families on coping strategies as well as provide education on speech and language disorders. SLPs are employed in various settings such as: public/private school systems, private practices, hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, colleges/universities, residential healthcare facilities, state and local health departments, state and federal government agencies, research facilities, assisted living facilities, home health agencies, and adult day care centers.
Some speech-language pathologists work in schools. Others work in private practice or in hospitals or nursing and residential care facilities. Most speech-language pathologists are full time, but part-time work is common.
Speech-language pathologists typically need at least a master’s degree in speech-language pathology. All states require that speech-language pathologists be licensed. Licensure requirements vary by state but typically include clinical experience and passing an exam.
The median annual wage for speech-language pathologists was $89,290 in May 2023.
Employment of speech-language pathologists is projected to grow 18 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations
The Hilltop Advantage
As you ponder college choices, consider the College of Sciences value proposition: A variety of sciences that suit your interests, high-quality accredited curriculum, dedicated faculty, a professional advisor and placement coordinator, business student organizations, on-site speech and hearing clinic to provide students with use of state-of-the-art equipment and patient experience, and alumni support – all yours at attractive tuition rates that are hard to beat, in-state or out-of-state.
Hands-On Learning
The College of Sciences at West Liberty University emphasizes hands-on learning that culminates in capstone presentations that showcase your skills and knowledge. We encourage and support student participation in internships that allow you to evaluate career choices while acquiring career-related experience and making valuable industry connections along the way.
Personalized Support
At the College of Sciences, our faculty are dedicated partners in your educational journey. With no giant lecture halls or teaching assistants, students build strong relationships with faculty who serve as instructors, mentors, and friends. Our faculty often help connect students with internship opportunities and job placements.
Networking and Professional Experiences
Annual events, such as the Young Executives Summit (pictured above) and the David E. Wright Executive Seminar Series bring professionals to campus to network with students and share their knowledge.
Next Steps
Request Info
For more information about West Liberty University, simply fill out and submit the form. Tell us a little bit about yourself, and we’ll send you more information. If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact us.
Visit
The journey of a lifetime starts with your first visit to West Liberty, where you will be greeted by a warm and inviting tree-shaded campus full of excitement.
Apply
Apply today and discover how West Liberty University can help you realize your business career aspirations.