College of Communication
Communication Sciences & Disorders

Frequently Asked Questions

What do CSD professionals do?

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) evaluate, diagnose, and carry out treatment for individuals who have speech, language, hearing and swallowing problems in individuals of all ages, from infants to the elderly.

Audiologists are experts in the management of the auditory and balance systems. They specialize in the evaluation of hearing, and the prevention and treatment of  hearing problems.

Speech, Language, and Hearing Scientists provide the research on which clinicians base their treatment methods. They investigate biological, physical, and physiological aspects of communication and explore trends in communication sciences.

Where do they work?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook 2010-2011, about 48 percent of speech-language pathologists worked in educational services; most others were employed by healthcare and social assistance facilities. Work settings include:

  • Public and private schools
  • Hospitals
  • Rehabilitation centers
  • Short-term and long-term nursing care facilities
  • Community clinics
  • Colleges and universities
  • Private practice offices
  • State and local health departments
  • State and federal government agencies
  • Home health agencies (home care)
  • Adult day care centers
  • Centers for persons with developmental disabilities
  • Research laboratories

What is the career outlook?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook 2010-2011, the current demand for professionals in the field, especially speech-language pathologists, is greater than the supply. Employment of speech-language pathologists is expected to grow by 19 percent from 2008 to 2018, faster than the average for all occupations.

What earnings might be expected?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook 2010-2011, median annual wages of speech-language pathologists, depending on the work setting, range from $58,140-$79,120.

What is the advantage to a CSD Degree at Butler

The size and nature of the CSD Program allows students the opportunity to participate in internships as well as engage in research and clinical projects with faculty mentors. The Butler Speech-Language Clinic provides an opportunity on campus for qualified students to work with clients who experience communication disorders. Both the research and clinical aspects of the CSD Program are an integral part of student growth and development and allow the application of classroom learning to practical, meaningful experiences.

Please see www.asha.org for more information about careers.