Louisiana Speech Language Pathology Schools - LA
Louisiana Speech-Language Pathologist Education
A long, comprehensive road through academia is a requirement for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) bent on tackling the diverse population in Louisiana. A bachelor’s program in communications sciences and disorders is a good place to start. This four-year program will begin with an overview of normal human communication, anatomy, and language development before delving into the world of dysfunction. Students may also have the opportunity to observe professionals in the field and start having some hands-on experience.
Next, a Louisiana-SLP-hopeful should seek a Master’s degree from online institutions or campus based speech pathology schools in Louisiana accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech Language Pathology, a requirement for licensure in the state.
ASHA National Office
2200 Research Boulevard
Rockville, MD 20850-3289
301-296-5700
800-638-8255
301-296-8580 (fax)
[email protected]
www.asha.org
Graduate work in this field will help the student synthesize what he or she learned during the undergrad program. Grad students will have clinical experiences that allow them to begin diagnosing and treating language and communication disorders. They will most likely also complete a capstone project, demonstrating a cohesive understanding of research methods in the field. For an SLP seeking a position as a professor or researcher in the field of speech-language pathology, a 4-year Ph.D. program is more appropriate than a Master’s degree.
Renewal notices are sent out to all licensed Louisiana SLPs on April 15th of each year and must be completed and returned on or before June 30th. In this state, licensees must participate in a minimum of 10 clock hours of continuing education per each license period (July 1 through June 30 of the successive year). Renewals can be completed by mail, in which case they will be processed over a period of 6 weeks. Licensees can also complete their renewals online, for a processing fee of $3.00. Those renewing online will receive their ID card within one week.
Through campus or online programs, aspiring Speech Pathologists in New Orleans, Baton Rouge and Shreveport, Louisiana may be able to prepare themselves for the possibility of employment in some of the largest hospitals and healthcare facilities in the state including the Lafayette General Hospital, Ochsner Medical Center and Charity Hospital.