Earn a bachelor’s degree in a related field
Complete prerequisite coursework in communication sciences and disorders
Earn a master’s degree in speech-language pathology
Complete supervised clinical practicum hours
Pass the required national certification exam
Apply for state licensure or registration
Complete any required background checks or fingerprinting
Obtain a clinical fellowship or supervised post-graduate experience if required
Maintain certification and licensure through continuing education
Consider specializing in an area such as pediatrics, schools, swallowing, or voice disorders