Speech Pathology Programs in South Dakota - SD

By Kathy Foust, allied health world contributing writer
Published: January, 25 2010

South Dakota Speech Language Pathologist

To begin the process of becoming a Speech Language Pathologist in South Dakota, one must first start with the educational process. Once high school is complete, a bachelor degree in any field should be obtained. It would be wise to place a focus on the area of language skills during the periods of education leading up to the bachelor degree, but is not strictly necessary.

Once the bachelor degree is obtained, students may enter online or campus based South Dakota speech pathology graduate programs that focus on language and speech pathology. These programs must be accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in order to avoid any processing delays when it comes to applying for certification. Once the master level has been reached, would-be Speech and Language Pathologists will then need to complete the certification process.

The certification process begins and ends with the American Speech – Language – Hearing Association. Individuals can request and submit their application along with fees, identity verification, background check and transcript to this association. If the applicant applies within 3 years of receiving their Master level degree in Language and Speech Pathology from and accredited institute, the process is relatively quick and simple. If, however the applicant waits past the 3 year mark or has obtained their education from a facility that is not accredited or is a foreign facility, they will be required to submit a Knowledge and Skills Acquisition Summary for the Council for Clinical Certification to review.  Upon review and acceptance, the applicant will be awarded their certificate and may move on to obtain their license in the state of South Dakota.

Residents of South Dakota may apply for their license in Language and Speech Pathology by applying to the South Dakota Speech – Language – Hearing Association. Applicants will submit their application along with fees and verification of certification to this association. Once the application has been reviewed, the application will be approved or denied.

American Speech – Language – Hearing Association National Office
22oo Research Boulevard
Rockville, Maryland 20850-3289
(Members) 1-800-498-2071 (Nonmembers) 1-800-638-8255

South Dakota Speech – Language – Hearing – Association
P.O. Box 308
Sioux Falls, South Dakota 57101-0308
(605) 274-2423