You cannot work as a fully licensed speech-language pathologist (SLP) with just a bachelor’s degree—all 50 states require a master’s degree, clinical hours, and licensure. However, you can work as a Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant (SLPA), audiologist assistant, or rehabilitation aide in states that recognize these roles. These supervised positions typically pay 60-70% of an SLP’s salary but have limitations in scope, job availability, and advancement potential.
- Emerson College - Master's in Speech-Language Pathology online - Prepare to become an SLP in as few as 20 months. No GRE required. Scholarships available.
- Grand Canyon University - Online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology. - This STEM program focuses on training aspiring speech-language pathologists to offer compassionate, effective services to individuals with communication disorders
- Arizona State University - Online - Online Bachelor of Science in Speech and Hearing Science - Designed to prepare graduates to work in behavioral health settings or transition to graduate programs in speech-language pathology and audiology.
- NYU Steinhardt - NYU Steinhardt's Master of Science in Communicative Sciences and Disorders online - ASHA-accredited. Bachelor's degree required. Graduate prepared to pursue licensure.
- Pepperdine University - Embark on a transformative professional and personal journey in the online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program from Pepperdine University. Our program brings together rigorous academics, research-driven faculty teaching, and robust clinical experiences, all wrapped within our Christian mission to serve our communities and improve the lives of others.
Important Note: Assistant-level position availability, recognition, salary, and requirements vary significantly by state and employer. Before pursuing this pathway, verify that your state recognizes SLPAs and check specific local regulations through your state’s speech-language pathology licensing board.
If you’re earning a bachelor’s degree in speech pathology (also called communication sciences and disorders), you’re probably wondering about your career options. Here’s the reality: while you can’t become a licensed SLP with just a bachelor’s degree, you may have access to assistant-level positions that let you work in the field under supervision, gain hands-on experience, and earn income—though these roles are more limited in scope and availability than fully licensed positions.
A speech pathology bachelor’s degree opens doors to assistant-level positions in states that recognize these roles. You’ll work directly with patients under supervision, support licensed professionals, and build clinical skills. However, these positions have important limitations: they require supervision, restrict your scope of practice, and may offer less job security than licensed professional roles. Many professionals use these positions as a stepping stone while pursuing graduate education, though balancing work with part-time study can be demanding.
Let’s explore exactly what you can do with a bachelor’s in speech pathology, realistic salary expectations based on current data, state recognition issues, and how these positions fit into a longer-term career path in communication sciences.
Can You Work as an SLP with Just a Bachelor’s Degree?
No, you cannot work as a licensed speech-language pathologist (SLP) with only a bachelor’s degree. All 50 states and the District of Columbia require SLPs to hold a master’s degree in speech-language pathology from a Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA)-accredited program, complete supervised clinical hours, pass the Praxis examination, and obtain state licensure. There are no exceptions to this requirement—it’s a universal standard across the United States.
According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), the minimum educational requirement for SLP licensure is a master’s degree, which typically requires two years beyond your bachelor’s and includes at least 400 hours of supervised clinical experience, plus an additional Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY) of supervised practice after graduation.
While this requirement may seem limiting, it exists to ensure patient safety and treatment quality. Speech-language pathologists diagnose and treat complex communication and swallowing disorders that directly affect health outcomes—requiring advanced clinical training beyond a bachelor’s level.
You do have alternative pathways if you’re not ready to commit to graduate school immediately. These include assistant-level positions where you’ll work under supervision, though availability and requirements for these roles vary significantly by state.
Why Pursue a Speech Pathology Bachelor’s Degree?
A speech pathology bachelor’s degree provides comprehensive training in the biological, physical, social, and linguistic aspects of human communication. Through this interdisciplinary program, you’ll complete coursework in biology, linguistics, acoustics, language science, psychology, cognitive science, and human development across the lifespan.
This undergraduate degree serves two important purposes. First, it prepares you for immediate employment in assistant-level positions where you can start your career and earn income. Second, it creates the smoothest pathway to a master’s in speech-language pathology by ensuring you’ve completed all prerequisite courses.
While many master’s programs accept students from various undergraduate backgrounds, students without speech pathology bachelor’s degrees often need to complete additional prerequisite courses (sometimes called “leveling courses”) before beginning graduate coursework. This can add 6-12 months to your timeline and increase costs. A bachelor’s in speech pathology eliminates this step entirely.
Some universities even offer accelerated 3+2 or 4+1 programs that combine bachelor’s and master’s degrees in speech-language pathology, allowing you to earn both degrees in five years instead of six. These programs offer significant time and cost savings for students committed to becoming SLPs.
Career Options with a Bachelor’s in Speech Pathology
Your bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and disorders qualifies you for several professional positions in healthcare and education settings. While you’ll work under the supervision of licensed professionals, these roles offer meaningful patient interaction, competitive salaries, and valuable experience. The three most common career paths are:
Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant (SLPA)
A speech-language pathologist assistant (SLPA) works as support personnel for certified SLPs, performing specific clinical tasks under direct supervision. SLPAs cannot work independently, conduct diagnostic evaluations, develop treatment plans, or make clinical decisions without supervision. They implement therapy activities prescribed by the supervising SLP.
Critical Limitations: Approximately 27 states currently recognize and regulate SLPAs, though specific requirements and scope of practice vary significantly. Some states don’t recognize this role at all, meaning you cannot work as an SLPA there regardless of your qualifications. Before pursuing SLPA certification, verify that your state (or a state where you plan to work) recognizes this position.
After completing your bachelor’s degree and at least 100 hours of fieldwork, you can pursue SLPA certification through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). States that recognize SLPAs typically don’t license them separately—instead, credentialing them as support personnel under an SLP’s license. Some states and school districts classify SLPAs as teacher assistants or paraprofessionals.
Typical SLPA Responsibilities (Under Supervision):
- Implementing therapy activities prescribed by the supervising SLP (cannot create own plans)
- Documenting patient progress and session notes as directed
- Preparing materials and treatment spaces for therapy sessions
- Communicating with patients and families about progress (within defined limits)
- Performing screenings (not diagnostic assessments) as directed
- Assisting with prevention and wellness programs under supervision
- Handling administrative tasks and scheduling
What SLPAs Cannot Do:
- Work without direct SLP supervision
- Conduct diagnostic evaluations or assessments
- Develop or modify treatment plans independently
- Make clinical decisions about patient care
- Provide services in states that don’t recognize SLPAs
- Bill insurance or serve as the primary provider of record
SLPAs work in settings including schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, skilled nursing facilities, outpatient clinics, and home health agencies. They serve clients across the lifespan, from pediatric to geriatric patients. However, job availability is limited to states that recognize the role, and positions may be less stable than licensed professional roles since they depend on supervising SLP employment and caseload needs.
Audiologist Assistant
Audiologist assistants work under the supervision of licensed audiologists, performing technical tasks related to hearing assessment and hearing aid services. While this position doesn’t specifically require a speech pathology bachelor’s degree, this educational background provides relevant knowledge in communication sciences and audiology fundamentals.
State Regulation Variability: Licensing and regulation of audiologist assistants vary widely by state. Some states require licensure or registration, some have voluntary certification programs, and others don’t regulate the role at all. Check your state’s audiology licensing board for specific requirements before pursuing this career path. In states without regulation, job requirements and scope of practice may vary significantly by employer.
Typical Audiologist Assistant Responsibilities (Under Supervision):
- Conducting hearing screenings and basic diagnostic tests (otoscopy, tympanometry, audiometry) as directed
- Maintaining and calibrating audiological equipment
- Managing inventory of supplies and devices
- Performing minor hearing aid repairs and adjustments
- Preparing patients for specialized testing (electrophysiologic, balance assessments)
- Assisting audiologists during complex evaluations
- Educating patients on hearing aid use and maintenance
- Handling administrative duties and patient records
What Audiologist Assistants Cannot Do:
- Independently diagnose hearing loss or vestibular disorders
- Fit or dispense hearing aids without supervision (in most states)
- Make clinical recommendations without audiologist oversight
- Practice in states requiring licensure without meeting state-specific requirements
Audiologist assistants work in settings including hospitals, audiology clinics, schools, early intervention centers, rehabilitation facilities, and hearing aid retail locations. Job availability and scope of practice depend on state regulations and individual employer policies.
Rehabilitation Aide
Rehabilitation aides support physical therapists and physical therapist assistants in healthcare settings, helping ensure smooth clinic operations and quality patient care. While rehabilitation aides don’t require a speech pathology degree, your background in communication sciences demonstrates clinical knowledge and professional preparation.
Regulation and Scope: Rehabilitation aide positions are generally not licensed or regulated positions, meaning requirements and responsibilities vary significantly by employer and setting. This can result in less job security and more variable working conditions compared to licensed professional roles.
Typical Rehabilitation Aide Responsibilities:
- Preparing treatment areas and equipment for therapy sessions
- Assisting with patient transport and positioning
- Performing routine patient care tasks as directed
- Completing administrative paperwork and documentation
- Answering phones and scheduling appointments
- Managing patient records and insurance documents
- Maintaining clean, organized treatment spaces
- Ordering supplies and managing inventory
Rehabilitation aides work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, and sports medicine facilities. This role typically offers the lowest pay among bachelor-level healthcare positions but can provide entry-level healthcare experience.
SLPA vs. Full SLP: What’s the Difference?
Understanding the distinctions between assistant-level positions and fully licensed SLP roles helps you make informed career decisions. Here’s a comprehensive comparison:
| Factor | SLPA (Bachelor’s Level) | Licensed SLP (Master’s Level) |
|---|---|---|
| Education Required | Bachelor’s degree + 100 hours supervised fieldwork | Master’s degree + 400 hours supervised clinical experience |
| Certification | ASHA C-SLPA certification (optional/state-dependent) | ASHA CCC-SLP + state licensure (required) |
| Can Work Independently? | No—requires direct SLP supervision | Yes—can practice independently |
| Create Treatment Plans? | No—implements plans created by SLP | Yes—conducts evaluations and develops treatment plans |
| Conduct Assessments? | Limited—screenings only, under supervision | Yes—comprehensive diagnostic evaluations |
| Typical Salary Range (2024) | $45,000 – $60,000 annually | $70,000 – $95,000 annually |
| State Recognition | Varies—not recognized in all states | Universal—licensed in all 50 states |
| Career Advancement | Limited without a master’s degree | Specialty certifications, leadership roles, private practice |
| Time to Practice | Can begin immediately after a bachelor’s degree | Requires 2 additional years of graduate study |
While SLPAs earn less than fully licensed SLPs, the position offers several strategic advantages. You can start earning income immediately after your bachelor’s degree, gain hands-on clinical experience that strengthens graduate school applications, and test whether speech-language pathology is the right career fit before committing to graduate school.
Salary Expectations for Bachelor-Level Positions
Data Sources and Limitations: The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) doesn’t maintain separate occupational data for assistant-level positions in speech-language pathology or audiology. Salary estimates below are based on ASHA’s guidance that support personnel typically earn 60-70% of licensed professional salaries, combined with BLS data for licensed SLPs (as of May 2024). These are national estimates—actual salaries vary significantly by geographic location, work setting, years of experience, state recognition status, and local market conditions.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, licensed speech-language pathologists earned a median annual wage of $89,460 as of May 2024 (most recent available data). Using ASHA’s published guideline that assistant-level personnel typically earn 60-70% of licensed professional salaries, we can estimate that SLPAs earn approximately $53,676 to $62,622 annually.
Important Salary Considerations:
- State recognition directly affects salary: SLPAs in states with formal recognition and regulation typically earn higher salaries with more standardized pay scales
- Geographic variation is substantial: Metropolitan areas and high cost-of-living states may pay 20-40% more than rural or low cost-of-living areas
- Work setting influences pay: Medical facilities typically offer higher compensation than educational settings
- Part-time vs. full-time: Many assistant positions are part-time or contract-based, affecting total annual earnings and benefits
- Benefits vary widely: Assistant-level positions may offer limited benefits compared to licensed professional roles
| Position | Estimated Annual Salary Range | Estimated Hourly Rate | Data Source / Basis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant | $45,000 – $60,000 | $22 – $29 | ASHA guidelines (60-70% of SLP salary) |
| Audiologist Assistant | $42,000 – $58,000 | $20 – $28 | Industry estimates, state data |
| Rehabilitation Aide | $32,000 – $42,000 | $15 – $20 | BLS data for rehabilitation aides |
| Licensed SLP (for comparison) | $70,000 – $95,000 | $34 – $46 | BLS May 2024 (median $89,460) |
Reality Check: While assistant-level positions provide valuable experience, the salary gap between assistants and licensed professionals is substantial and doesn’t typically narrow with experience. Career advancement and salary growth are limited without obtaining a master’s degree and licensure. Additionally, job security for assistant positions may be lower since these roles depend on supervising professional employment and caseload needs.
The Upgrade Path: From SLPA to Full SLP
Working as an SLPA can provide a clinical foundation for pursuing a master’s degree in speech-language pathology, though this pathway has both advantages and significant challenges. Here’s a realistic look at how the progression typically works:
Immediate Path (Start Working Now)
- Complete your bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology or communication sciences and disorders (typically 4 years)
- Complete 100+ hours of supervised fieldwork through your undergraduate program
- Pass the SLPA certification exam to earn your C-SLPA credential from ASHA (if pursuing certification)
- Verify state recognition and find employment in a state that recognizes SLPAs
- Begin working as an SLPA under the supervision of a licensed SLP
- Gain clinical experience (typically 1-3 years before applying to graduate programs)
Graduate School Path (Building on Experience)
- Apply to CAA-accredited master’s programs (competitive admission—clinical experience helps but doesn’t guarantee acceptance)
- Complete your master’s degree: 2 years full-time OR 3-4 years part-time (note: not all programs offer part-time options)
- Finish 400 hours of supervised clinical practicum during your master’s program
- Complete a 9-month Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY) after graduation (full-time supervised clinical work)
- Pass the Praxis examination in speech-language pathology (minimum score of 162)
- Obtain your state license and ASHA CCC-SLP certification
Important Realities About Working While Studying
The Challenges:
- Part-time programs are limited: Most master’s programs in SLP are full-time cohort models. Part-time options exist but are less common and may take 3-4 years instead of 2
- Clinical practicum conflicts with work: Master’s programs require 400 hours of supervised clinical experience, often during standard work hours, making full-time employment difficult
- Intensive coursework demands: SLP graduate programs are rigorous. Balancing coursework, practicum, and employment is extremely demanding
- Employer flexibility varies: Not all employers can accommodate reduced hours or scheduling needs for graduate students
- Financial trade-offs: Part-time study means paying tuition over more years while earning a reduced income from part-time work
- CFY is full-time: The Clinical Fellowship Year after graduation requires full-time supervised work, typically incompatible with SLPA employment
Potential Benefits (When Successful):
- Stronger graduate applications: Admissions committees value demonstrated clinical experience and commitment to the field
- Confirmed career fit: You’ll know whether speech-language pathology is right for you before investing in graduate school
- Some income during study: Part-time work provides financial support, though less than full-time employment
- Clinical context: You’ll understand clinical realities that enhance your graduate learning experience
- Professional network: Working SLPs can provide mentorship and career guidance
- Manageable debt: Earning while studying may help limit graduate school debt accumulation
Alternative Consideration: Many students find it more practical to work as an SLPA for 1-3 years, save money, then attend a full-time graduate program without employment. This approach may result in faster completion and less overall stress, though it means a period without income during full-time study.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be a speech therapist with just a bachelor’s degree?
No, you cannot be a licensed speech-language pathologist with only a bachelor’s degree. All states require SLPs to hold a master’s degree from a CAA-accredited program, pass the Praxis exam, and obtain state licensure. However, you can work as a Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant (SLPA) under the supervision of a licensed SLP, which allows you to provide therapy services and gain valuable clinical experience.
What’s the salary difference between an SLPA and a licensed SLP?
SLPAs typically earn 60-70% of a licensed SLP’s salary. As of 2024, SLPAs can expect to earn approximately $45,000-$60,000 annually, while licensed SLPs earn $70,000-$95,000 annually. The specific amount varies based on geographic location, work setting, years of experience, and whether your state formally recognizes and licenses SLPAs.
How long does it take to become an SLPA?
After completing your 4-year bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology, you’ll need to complete at least 100 hours of supervised clinical fieldwork and pass the ASHA certification exam. Most students complete their fieldwork during their undergraduate program, so you can begin working as an SLPA immediately after graduation—typically within 4-5 months of finishing your bachelor’s degree once you pass the certification exam.
Can I work as an SLPA while completing my master’s degree?
Yes, many professionals work as SLPAs while pursuing their master’s degree part-time. This strategy allows you to earn income, gain clinical experience, and complete your education simultaneously. Some employers even offer tuition assistance or flexible schedules to support employees pursuing graduate degrees. Check with specific graduate programs about their part-time study options and whether outside employment is permitted during your studies.
Which states recognize SLPAs?
Approximately 27 states currently recognize and regulate speech-language pathologist assistants, though the specific requirements, scope of practice, and titles vary significantly. Some states offer formal licensure, others require registration, and many states don’t recognize the role at all. Additionally, recognition can change as states update their practice acts. Before pursuing SLPA certification or employment, check your state’s speech-language pathology licensing board website for current requirements. ASHA maintains a state-by-state guide to SLPA regulation that can help you identify which states recognize this role and what requirements apply.
Do I need a speech pathology bachelor’s degree to become an SLPA?
ASHA’s SLPA certification requirements specify a bachelor’s degree but don’t mandate a specific major. However, a bachelor’s in speech-language pathology or communication sciences and disorders ensures you meet all prerequisite coursework and provides the specialized knowledge needed for the role. Some states have more specific degree requirements, so check your state’s regulations. A speech pathology bachelor’s also positions you as a stronger candidate when applying for SLPA positions and provides the academic foundation needed if you later pursue a master’s degree without additional leveling courses.
What other careers can I pursue with a speech pathology bachelor’s degree?
Beyond SLPA roles, a speech pathology bachelor’s degree prepares you for careers as an audiologist assistant, rehabilitation aide, special education paraprofessional, early intervention specialist, or positions in sales and marketing for healthcare companies (especially those selling communication devices, hearing aids, or therapy materials). Your interdisciplinary training in human development, psychology, and communication also qualifies you for various positions in healthcare, social services, education, and human resources.
Key Takeaways
- All 50 states require a master’s degree for SLP licensure—no exceptions. A bachelor’s degree alone does not qualify you to work as a licensed speech-language pathologist in any state.
- Assistant-level positions (SLPA, audiologist assistant) are only available in states that recognize these roles. Approximately 27 states recognize SLPAs with varying requirements. Always verify state recognition before pursuing this pathway.
- Speech-language pathologist assistants earn an estimated 60-70% of licensed SLP salaries (approximately $45,000-$60,000 annually, based on 2024 data), but this varies substantially by state, location, and employer. Job security and benefits may be more limited than in licensed positions.
- SLPAs work under supervision and cannot work independently, conduct diagnostic evaluations, create treatment plans, or make clinical decisions. These scope of practice limitations are permanent without obtaining a master’s degree.
- Working as an SLPA while pursuing a part-time master’s degree is challenging due to limited part-time program availability, clinical practicum scheduling conflicts, and intensive coursework demands. Many find it more practical to work full-time as an SLPA for 1-3 years, then attend full-time graduate school.
- A bachelor’s in speech pathology provides the prerequisite coursework for master’s programs, eliminating additional leveling courses required for students from other majors—but it doesn’t guarantee graduate school admission, which remains competitive.
- Emerson College - Master's in Speech-Language Pathology online - Prepare to become an SLP in as few as 20 months. No GRE required. Scholarships available.
- Grand Canyon University - Online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology. - This STEM program focuses on training aspiring speech-language pathologists to offer compassionate, effective services to individuals with communication disorders
- Arizona State University - Online - Online Bachelor of Science in Speech and Hearing Science - Designed to prepare graduates to work in behavioral health settings or transition to graduate programs in speech-language pathology and audiology.
- NYU Steinhardt - NYU Steinhardt's Master of Science in Communicative Sciences and Disorders online - ASHA-accredited. Bachelor's degree required. Graduate prepared to pursue licensure.
- Pepperdine University - Embark on a transformative professional and personal journey in the online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program from Pepperdine University. Our program brings together rigorous academics, research-driven faculty teaching, and robust clinical experiences, all wrapped within our Christian mission to serve our communities and improve the lives of others.
Ready to explore speech pathology degree programs? Whether you’re starting your bachelor’s degree or planning your path to a master’s program, finding the right accredited program is your first step.
Salary data for licensed speech-language pathologists is from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook (May 2024 data, most recent available). The BLS does not maintain separate occupational data for speech-language pathologist assistants, audiologist assistants, or similar support positions. Salary estimates for assistant-level positions are approximations based on ASHA’s published guidance that support personnel typically earn 60-70% of licensed professional salaries, combined with industry reports and state-specific data where available. Actual salaries vary significantly by state, geographic location, work setting, years of experience, state recognition status, employer, and local market conditions. These estimates should be used as general guidelines only—research specific positions and locations for accurate salary information. Data accessed November 2025.