A speech therapist, also known as a speech-language pathologist is a healthcare professional who specialises in diagnosing as well as treating speech and language disorders. They work with people of all ages from infants to the elderly who have difficulty with speech, language, communication or swallowing.

Speech therapists work in a variety of settings including schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centres and private practices. Furthermore, they use a range of techniques to improve communication skills such as exercises to strengthen the muscles used in speech, cognitive therapies to improve memory as well as problem-solving skills and training in using alternative communication devices. 

For Bachelor’s

• Candidates must have completed their 10+2 with at least 55% marks in the Science stream.
• A degree of B.Sc in Speech & Hearing or other relevant field is a great option to become a speech therapist. 
• A diploma or certificate can also be pursued after 10+2. 

For Master’s

• A master’s degree in Audiology or related fields can enhance the knowledge of students.
• The minimum percentage required for admission may vary from institute to institute. It usually ranges between 50-60%.
• Some colleges may also conduct entrance exams for admission.
• Undergraduates can also go further for doctoral courses after completing their bachelor’s degree. 

Apart from working as a Speech Therapist, there are several other job profiles that a person with a background in speech therapy can pursue. Some of these job profiles include:

• Clinical Supervisor
• Speech Pathology Reader
• Audiologist
• Teacher
• Lecturer
• Researcher

Employment Sector

• Private or Government Hospitals
• NGOs
• Healthcare Establishments
• Hearing Aid Industries

There are many recruiters from leading companies who enlist potential medical students. Following are some Recruiters from where students can find an employment opportunity in India: 

• Fortis Hospital
• Apollo Hospital
• Narayana Hospital
• Artemis Hospital
• Lilavati Hospital
• Medanta Hospital
• AIIMS
• Christian Medical College
• PGIMER
• Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital

The salary range may vary from company to company, but the salary of a Speech Therapist is very impressive in India.

• Listening skills
• Management skills
• Attention to detail
• Good Communication skills

Speech therapy is a rewarding as well as growing field with a promising career scope. Speech therapists, also known as speech-language pathologists, work with individuals of all ages who have communication and swallowing disorders. 

Moreover, they assess, diagnose and treat various speech and language disorders such as stuttering, articulation difficulties, voice disorders and language delays or impairments. They also help people with swallowing disorders caused by various medical conditions such as stroke, neurological disorders or traumatic brain injury.

• Making a difference in people's lives
• Job security
• Variety of work settings
• Flexibility
• Competitive salary

• Education and training requirements
• Emotional demands
• Administrative duties
• Limited advancement opportunities
• Restricted job mobility