Annual Salary of a Speech Pathologist
Speech language pathologists, also known as speech therapists, diagnose and treat people with speech and language disorders. Speech pathologists see clients with physical problems or mental disabilities, or those who simply wish to change the way they talk, such as by eliminating an accent. Speech pathologists must undergo a course of study to practice their trade, and are well compensated for their work.
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Education
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most speech pathologist jobs require applicants to hold a master's degree in speech-language pathology or a closely related field. In addition, many states require that those who practice the trade hold a license, the issuance of which usually requires the pathologist to hold a master's degree. Similarly, if an individual seeks professional credentialing from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association--a requirement for some positions--he must have a master's degree.
Salary
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, speech language pathologists in May 2008 made a median income of $62,930. The 25 percent of speech language pathologists that made the least money made under $50,330, while the 25 percent that were the best compensated made over $79,620. The 10 percent making the most money in the profession made more than $99,220.
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Employer
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The salary that a speech pathologist receives depends greatly on her employer. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, pathologists employed by nursing homes make, on average, more than pathologists employed anywhere else, taking home $79,120. Those employed by home health care services make $77,030; hospitals, $68,430; medical offices, $67,910; and elementary and secondary schools, $58,140. About 40 percent of speech pathologists belong to a union; union employees make more, on average, than non-union peers.
Experience
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According to Payscale, the salary of a speech pathologist differs greatly depending on his experience. While speech pathologists who have worked less than one year generally make between $39,500 and $50,900 per year, those with between five and nine years experience make between $47,200 and $62,400 per year. Those with more than 20 years of experience can expect to command between $54,500 and $75,300 per year.
Job Outlook
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, speech language pathologists can expect strong job security. Between 2008 and 2018, positions in the profession are expected to grow by 19 percent, a rate that is faster than most professions. An increasing number of elderly persons in the United States, as well as increased enrollment in elementary school, will lead to more jobs for pathologists. Demand for speech pathologists who speak two languages, particularly if one of them is Spanish, will be particularly high.
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