Speech, language, and hearing research focuses on the normal functions of human communication, the processes underlying impaired function, and the development of new techniques for assessment and treatment. This research generates the evidence on which clinical practice is based. Read more.
Speech, language, and hearing researchers may conduct research at or consult with universities, hospitals, and/or government health agencies and industries.
Speech, language, and hearing researchers may work in a variety of settings—colleges and universities, research laboratories and institutes, state and federal government agencies, and/or private industry.
Salaries of speech, language, and hearing researchers vary widely depending on experience, employment setting, and geographical location.
ASHA currently represents 211,000 members and affiliates. There continues to be a need for more basic, applied, and translational research in the discipline. The profession continues to grow, and there is a need for scientists and college professors [PDF]—especially those from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
A research doctoral degree (e.g., PhD) is required to become a speech, language, and hearing researcher. Some researchers do not hold ASHA's Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC), because the credential is not required for research in a laboratory.