How to Make a Career Change from Teacher to SLP Speech Pathologist for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Many teachers eventually leave the education industry and go for other careers, foremost of which is a speech-language pathologist (SLP) role. In September 2024, about 57,000 teachers and related staff in the United States left their posts to find other careers. Becoming a speech-language pathologist is a popular option since these professionals are well-paid, experience robust job growth, and possibly have better work-life balance.

This guide explores why educators decide to become speech-language pathologists and presents the steps in the teacher to SLP transition process. It also compares both professions in regard to salaries and job outlooks and navigates other alternative careers for teachers, enabling educators to make informed decisions.

Key Things You Should Know About a Career Change from Teacher to SLP in 2025

Teachers often shift to becoming speech-language pathologists because both careers share a deep focus on communication, student support, and fostering individual growth, but SLP offers a more specialized, clinically focused way to make a difference.
The time it takes for a teacher to become a speech-language pathologist (SLP) typically ranges from about 3 to 6 years or longer if an educator has to take a bachelor's degree, which takes around four years to complete.
The employment growth of SLPs from 2023 to 2033 is projected to climb by a notable 18%, higher than that of preschool teachers (4%), kindergarten and elementary school teachers (-1%), middle school teachers (-1%), high school teachers (-1%), and postsecondary teachers in general (8%).
The average annual salary of SLPs is $95,840, while their median annual salary is $95,410.
The average annual salary of SLPs is higher than that of preschool teachers ($41,450), kindergarten teachers ($67,020), elementary school teachers ($69,790), middle school teachers ($70,040), and high school teachers ($73,420).
Speech-language pathologists typically earn a range of $60,480 to $132,850.

Why transition from teaching to speech-language pathology?
What do speech-language pathologists do?
How to make a career change from teacher to SLP?
How long does it take for a teacher to become an SLP?
What degrees can a teacher take to become an SLP?
What transferable skills do teachers bring to speech-language pathology?
What are the best certifications for teachers who want to become SLPs?
How do I choose affordable masters SLP programs online?
What challenges might you face during the transition?
How can I choose the right accredited SLP program?
What are the job outlooks for teachers and SLPs?
How much do teachers and SLPs earn?
In what other careers can teachers leverage their skills best?
Other Things You Should Know About a Career Change from Teacher to SLP

Why transition from teaching to speech-language pathology?

Teachers often shift to becoming speech-language pathologists because both careers share a deep focus on communication, student support, and fostering individual growth, but SLP offers a more specialized, clinically focused way to make a difference. Many educators are drawn to speech-language pathology to work more intensively one-on-one or in small groups, helping students or clients overcome specific speech, language, or swallowing challenges that directly impact their ability to learn and engage.

So, is teaching a good career? It sure is, but the needs of professionals change over time, leading some to become SLPs. As such, the transition also appeals to teachers seeking greater flexibility, higher earning potential, expanded job opportunities across healthcare and educational settings, and the satisfaction of seeing tangible progress in clients’ communication abilities.

The primary considerations include the following:

Desire for More Individualized Impact: Teachers often want to work more closely with students or clients in a one-on-one or small group setting, where they can focus on specific communication challenges and see measurable progress.
Interest in a Specialized Field: Speech-language pathology offers a deeper, clinically focused way to address speech, language, and swallowing disorders, allowing educators to apply their passion for communication and learning in a healthcare context.
Higher Salary Potential: In many regions, SLPs earn higher average salaries than classroom teachers, especially in healthcare settings like hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private practice.
Diverse Work Environments: SLPs have the flexibility to work in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and through telepractice, which can offer more career variety and long-term options.
Stronger Job Growth and Demand: Excellent job security characterizes the speech-language pathology field, driven by increasing demand from an aging population, greater awareness of communication disorders, and federal mandates for school services.
Professional Fulfillment: Helping individuals overcome barriers to communication and swallowing can be deeply rewarding, giving former teachers a renewed sense of purpose and tangible results.
Transferable Skills: Skills developed in teaching, such as lesson planning, communication, collaboration, and understanding of child development, transition well into speech-language pathology, making the career shift achievable and practical.
Opportunities for Specialization: SLPs can specialize in areas that align with personal interests, such as pediatric speech therapy, fluency disorders, voice therapy, neurogenic disorders, or working with bilingual populations.
Work-Life Balance and Flexibility: Some SLP roles, especially in private practice or teletherapy, offer flexible schedules and caseload management, which can appeal to teachers seeking a better work-life balance.
Continued Passion for Education: SLPs in schools or academic settings continue to support student success, but with a new lens—bridging healthcare and education while still engaging with families and educators.

These reasons alone give you the answers to the question: Why get an SLP degree?

What do speech-language pathologists do?

SLPs diagnose, assess, and treat individuals who have communication, speech, language, voice, fluency, and swallowing disorders. They work with people of all ages—from infants to older adults—helping clients improve skills such as articulation, language comprehension, social communication, cognitive-communication, and safe swallowing. Their responsibilities include developing individualized treatment plans, providing therapy sessions, educating families and caregivers, collaborating with other professionals like teachers and doctors, and often preventing communication disorders through early intervention and public education.

Speech-language pathologists treat a broad spectrum of conditions, such as stuttering, aphasia, dysarthria, voice disorders, language delays, autism spectrum disorders, and swallowing difficulties (dysphagia). They provide services in diverse settings, including schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, private clinics, and via teletherapy platforms.

The major responsibilities of SLPs include the following:

Conducting Assessments and Diagnoses: SLPs evaluate speech, language, cognitive communication, voice, fluency, and swallowing abilities using standardized tests, observations, and interviews to identify the nature and extent of a client’s difficulties.
Developing Individualized Treatment Plans: SLPs create tailored therapy plans based on assessment results, client goals, and evidence-based practices to address each individual’s unique communication or swallowing needs.
Providing Direct Therapy: SLPs deliver one-on-one or group therapy sessions to help clients improve skills such as articulation, language comprehension, expressive language, fluency, voice quality, cognitive communication, and safe swallowing.
Educating and Counseling Clients and Families: They provide education, training, and resources to clients, families, and caregivers to help them understand communication challenges and support the continuation of therapy strategies at home.
Collaborating with Other Professionals: SLPs work as part of interdisciplinary teams, collaborating with teachers, physicians, occupational therapists, physical therapists, audiologists, psychologists, and social workers to ensure comprehensive and coordinated care.
Documenting Progress and Maintaining Records: These professionals maintain thorough documentation of assessments, therapy sessions, progress reports, and treatment outcomes to ensure accuracy, track client progress, and comply with legal, ethical, and professional standards.
Advocating and Preventing Disorders: SLPs engage in advocacy and prevention efforts, educating the public about communication and swallowing disorders and promoting early identification and intervention to reduce the impact of these challenges.
Supervising and Mentoring: Experienced SLPs may supervise speech-language pathology assistants (SLPAs), mentor graduate student clinicians, and guide new professionals during their clinical fellowships to support skill development and professional growth.

You may also be wondering about the difference between a speech language pathologist vs speech therapist. Check out our article on the topic to learn more.

The chart below shows the salary range of SLPs in the United States.

How to make a career change from teacher to SLP?

Teachers looking to expand their impact often find speech-language pathology to be a natural next step. This career change allows them to apply their strengths in communication and education while gaining specialized skills to help individuals overcome speech and language challenges. These are the steps to successfully embark on a teacher to SLP transition:

Research the Field: An individual considering this transition should start by exploring the roles, responsibilities, work settings, and populations served by speech-language pathologists to ensure the career aligns with their interests and long-term goals.
Earn a Bachelor’s Degree (if not already completed): Most aspiring SLPs hold a bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and disorders (CSD) or a related field. A teacher will likely already have a bachelor’s degree—if it is not in CSD, prerequisite coursework may be required.
Complete Prerequisite Courses: If the undergraduate degree is outside of communication sciences and disorders, many graduate programs require foundational courses in subjects like anatomy of speech, phonetics, language development, and audiology.
Apply to a Master’s Program in Speech-Language Pathology: Earning a master's in speech-language pathology, usually a two-year commitment, is the next step. This includes coursework, clinical practicum hours, and supervised fieldwork within an accredited program. Aspirants can also pursue any of the top ranked online master’s in communication disorders programs to supplement their knowledge and boost their credentials.
Complete Clinical Practicum Hours: During the master’s program, students complete at least 400 supervised clinical hours working with diverse clients across various settings to prepare for professional practice.
Pass the Praxis Exam in Speech-Language Pathology: After graduate coursework, candidates must pass the Praxis exam—a national certification exam required for state licensure and professional certification.
Complete a Clinical Fellowship: New graduates work under the supervision of a licensed SLP for approximately nine months (or the equivalent of 1,260 hours) to gain real-world experience and demonstrate clinical competencies.
Obtain State Licensure: Candidates apply for licensure in their state, which allows independent practice as a speech-language pathologist. Licensure requirements vary by state.
Earn ASHA Certification (Optional but Recommended): Consider pursuing ASHA certification (CCC-SLP). This optional yet highly valuable national credential from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) can significantly expand one's job prospects and professional options.
Explore Job Opportunities: Once fully credentialed, the individual can begin applying for SLP positions in their preferred settings, such as schools, hospitals, private practice, rehabilitation centers, or teletherapy. A teaching background can serve as a strong asset, especially in educational environments.

How long does it take for a teacher to become an SLP?

The time it takes for a teacher to become a speech-language pathologist (SLP) typically ranges from about 3 to 6 years or longer if an educator has to take a bachelor's degree, which takes around four years to complete. The duration largely depends on whether aspirants study full-time or part-time and their prior coursework.

Master’s Degree Completion: Teachers aiming to become SLPs must complete a master's degree in speech-language pathology from an accredited program. This typically requires around 2 years of full-time study, with part-time options available that can take 4–6 years for working professionals.
Prerequisite Coursework: If the teacher’s undergraduate degree is not in communication sciences or a related field, they may need to complete prerequisite courses before starting the master’s program, adding several months to a year to the timeline.
Clinical Practicum and Fellowship: Graduate programs include supervised clinical practicum hours. After graduation, candidates must complete a postgraduate clinical fellowship (usually about 36 weeks of supervised work) before obtaining full licensure.
Licensure Exam: Passing the national Praxis exam in speech-language pathology is required, typically taken after completing the master’s degree.

What degrees can a teacher take to become an SLP?

Teachers considering a career transition to speech-language pathology often wonder about the best academic path to prepare them for this specialized field. Choosing the right degree is crucial for gaining the clinical skills and credentials needed to work as a licensed SLP. Here are their options:

Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology (MS or M.S.): This is the required graduate degree to become a licensed SLP. The program must be accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) and include both coursework and supervised clinical practicum. Many teachers with non-SLP backgrounds enter these programs after completing prerequisite courses, if needed. Those who want to fast-track their education can look for one year degree programs, if available.
Bachelor’s in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) or Speech-Language Pathology: For teachers considering a career change to SLP, a Bachelor's Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) or Speech-Language Pathology can provide valuable foundational knowledge and potentially simplify the graduate program application process. These four-year health science programs focus on human communication.
Bachelor’s Degree in Related Fields (Education, Psychology, Linguistics, etc.): Teachers often have bachelor’s degrees in education or related fields. While these degrees are not specific to speech pathology, many MS-SLP programs accept candidates from these backgrounds if they complete required prerequisite coursework such as biology, anatomy, phonetics, and statistics before starting graduate study. Learners can speed up the education process by taking degrees like accelerated psychology programs, which can be completed faster than traditional degrees.

What transferable skills do teachers bring to speech-language pathology?

Teachers considering a shift to speech-language pathology already possess a strong foundation of valuable skills. Many of the abilities honed in the classroom translate seamlessly into clinical practice with clients of all ages. Understanding these transferable skills can help make the transition smoother and highlight a teacher’s strengths in a new career:

Communication Skills: Teachers are skilled at explaining complex ideas clearly and adjusting their communication style to suit diverse audiences, which is essential when working with clients and families in speech therapy.
Assessment and Data Collection: Teachers routinely assess student progress and use data to guide instruction; similarly, SLPs assess clients’ communication abilities and monitor therapeutic outcomes.
Individualized Instruction and Differentiation: Designing lesson plans tailored to individual student needs mirrors how SLPs create personalized treatment plans for clients with varying speech and language challenges.
Collaboration and Teamwork: Teachers work closely with parents, colleagues, and support staff, which parallels the interdisciplinary collaboration SLPs engage in with healthcare providers, educators, and caregivers.
Patience and Empathy: Teachers regularly support students facing academic and personal challenges; these interpersonal qualities are equally vital when helping clients with communication disorders.
Behavior Management: Classroom management skills help in structuring therapy sessions, maintaining client engagement, and addressing behavioral issues that may arise during treatment.
Problem-Solving and Adaptability: Teachers adjust instruction to meet evolving student needs, just as SLPs modify therapy approaches based on client progress and feedback.
Organizational and Time Management Skills: Teachers juggle lesson planning, grading, and meetings, which is similar to managing therapy caseloads, documentation, and scheduling as an SLP.
Motivational and Coaching Skills: Encouraging and motivating students to achieve goals is a strength that teachers bring to supporting clients in therapy as they work toward communication milestones.

Do you want to start your teaching career as a math teacher? What degree do you need to be a math teacher? We have a separate article on the topic.

The chart below shows employment growth of SLPs and various teaching roles in a span of a decade.

What are the best certifications for teachers who want to become SLPs?

Teachers shifting to a career in speech-language pathology will need to obtain specific certifications to practice legally and effectively. These credentials demonstrate clinical competence and allow access to diverse work environments, including schools, hospitals, and private practice. Knowing which certifications to pursue can make the transition smoother and more strategic.

Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP): Awarded by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), the nationally recognized CCC-SLP certification demonstrates that the individual has met rigorous academic, clinical, and examination standards. It is often required or highly preferred by employers, especially in school settings, and enhances professional credibility and job prospects.
State Speech-Language Pathology License: Since 21 states require a state license to practice as an SLP in any setting, including schools, teachers must obtain licensure in the state where they plan to work. Licensure requirements typically include completing an accredited master’s program, supervised clinical experience, and passing the Praxis exam in Speech-Language Pathology.
Educator Certification or Credential in Speech-Language Pathology: In many states, including South Carolina and California, teachers transitioning to SLP roles must obtain a specialized educator certificate or credential for speech-language pathology issued by the state’s Department of Education or Commission on Teacher Credentialing. This credential often requires completion of an approved master’s program, clinical practicum, and sometimes additional state-specific requirements.
National Board Certification for Teachers (NBPTS) in Related Areas (Optional): While not specific to speech pathology, some teachers hold NBPTS certification in content areas, which may support their professional development during the transition. However, the primary focus remains on SLP-specific credentials.

How do I choose affordable masters SLP programs online?

For educators pursuing a career change to speech-language pathology, selecting a program with both quality and cost-effectiveness is essential. It is advisable to assess factors such as curriculum rigor, clinical placement opportunities, program flexibility, and available financial aid. Researching well-regarded programs that balance academic excellence with affordability can streamline the transition. Consider reviews, accreditation status, and the potential for hands-on training to ensure the chosen degree meets professional standards. Explore affordable masters SLP programs online to make an informed decision on your pathway toward a successful career transition.

What challenges might you face during the transition?

Transitioning from teaching to a clinical role as an SLP may present challenges in adapting to new diagnostic and therapeutic frameworks distinct from educational strategies. Former teachers must quickly build proficiency in clinical assessments and evidence-based treatment planning while mastering updated regulatory and interdisciplinary practices. In-depth research on types of communication disorders treated by SLPs is recommended to gain a clear understanding of the conditions they will address in practice. These adaptations can require significant effort, but overcoming them is critical to ensuring a smooth and effective transition into the clinical environment.

How can I choose the right accredited SLP program?

For educators transitioning into speech-language pathology, selecting an accredited program is crucial for ensuring quality education and meeting licensure requirements. Evaluate programs based on accreditation status, curriculum rigor, clinical placement opportunities, and faculty expertise. Comparing outcomes such as graduation and certification rates can help determine if a program aligns with your professional goals. For a comprehensive review of options, refer to our article on speech language pathology graduate programs ASHA to find detailed insights into both online and on-campus pathways.

What are the job outlooks for teachers and SLPs?

A common question among aspirants is, "Are speech pathologists in high demand?" SLPs have a more buoyant outlook than most teaching roles. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment growth of SLPs from 2023 to 2033 is projected to climb by a notable 18%, higher than that of preschool teachers (4%), kindergarten and elementary school teachers (-1%), middle school teachers (-1%), high school teachers (-1%), and postsecondary teachers in general (8%). It also dwarfs the collective average for all US occupations (4%).

While the teaching workforce has a higher employment level (3.69 million) and more yearly job openings from 2023 to 2033 (392,200 from preschool to postsecondary levels), SLPs can accommodate plenty of new entrants. In the given period, aspirants can expect about 13,700 openings for speech-language pathologists. The job portal Indeed has an even better projection, displaying that there are currently over 30,000 openings for SLPs in the country.

How much do teachers and SLPs earn?

Based on BLS data, speech-language pathologists earn more than most teachers. The average annual salary of SLPs is $95,840, while their median annual salary is $95,410. As seen in the visual below, their average salary is higher than that of preschool teachers ($41,450), kindergarten teachers ($67,020), elementary school teachers ($69,790), middle school teachers ($70,040), and high school teachers ($73,420).

Speech-language pathologists typically earn a range of $60,480 to $132,850, with individuals who made the teacher to SLP transition possibly earning around the median rate given their experience and transferable skills from teaching. They are set to make more if they practice in high-demand industries and locations.

The industries with the highest average annual salaries for SLPs are civic and social organizations ($130,620), home health care services ($121,410), and company management ($112,110). As for which state pays SLPs the most, California ($112,030), the District of Columbia ($111,110), and Colorado ($107,780) come as the leaders.

In what other careers can teachers leverage their skills best?

Teachers have a versatile skill set applicable to numerous careers outside of education. Their strengths in communication, leadership, organization, and problem-solving are valuable across many professional fields, offering new avenues for growth, fulfillment, and impact, besides pursuing an SLP license. Here are several alternative careers they can go for:

Instructional Designer or Curriculum Developer: Teachers’ experience in lesson planning and pedagogy translates well into designing educational materials and online learning programs for schools, businesses, or educational publishers.
Educational Consultant: Educators can advise schools, districts, or educational companies on best practices, curriculum alignment, teacher training, and student engagement strategies.
Academic Advisor or College Counselor: Teachers’ mentoring and counseling experience equips them to guide students through academic planning, college applications, and career exploration.
Corporate Trainer: The presentation and instructional skills of instructors are ideal for training employees in corporate settings, developing workshops, and delivering professional development programs.
Education Program Coordinator (Nonprofits and Museums): Teachers can manage educational outreach programs, create community learning initiatives, and develop interactive exhibits for nonprofit organizations or cultural institutions.
Human Resources Specialist: The communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills of instructors are useful in employee relations, recruitment, and training roles within HR departments. Teachers may need to take a human resources degree if they lack fundamental knowledge in the discipline.
Reading Specialist or Literacy Coach: Teachers with a background in language arts can specialize in improving reading and literacy outcomes for students and support other educators with instructional strategies.
Behavior Analyst (BCBA): Teachers, especially those experienced with special education, can become Board Certified Behavior Analysts, helping individuals with behavioral and developmental challenges.
Writer or Editor (Educational Content): Educators can write textbooks, instructional guides, and assessment materials, or contribute to education blogs, magazines, and curriculum publishers.

Here's What Former Teachers Who Became Speech-Language Pathologists Have to Say About Their Jobs

"The organizational and instructional skills I honed as a teacher have been invaluable in structuring therapy sessions and creating effective intervention plans for my clients. This career change to speech-language pathology has provided a fascinating blend of science and human connection, offering continuous learning and the profound joy of helping people communicate more effectively." - Karina

"Transitioning from teaching to speech-language pathology has been one of the most rewarding decisions of my life. I now get to work closely with students one-on-one, seeing their communication skills improve day by day, which brings me immense joy and fulfillment. The balance between meaningful work and a manageable schedule has truly improved my quality of life." - Giselle

"After years in the classroom, shifting to speech-language pathology gave me a fresh perspective and renewed enthusiasm for helping others. The role allows me to combine my teaching skills with clinical expertise, making a tangible difference in people’s lives while enjoying a better work-life balance. It’s a career that truly aligns with my values and strengths." - Winter

Key Findings

The employment growth of SLPs from 2023 to 2033 is projected to climb by a notable 18%.
Speech-language pathologists typically earn a range of $60,480 to $132,850.
The employment growth of SLPs from 2023 to 2033 is projected to climb by a notable 18%, higher than that of preschool teachers (4%), kindergarten and elementary school teachers (-1%), middle school teachers (-1%), high school teachers (-1%), and postsecondary teachers in general (8%).
Teachers have a versatile skill set applicable to numerous careers outside of education, including SLPs.
While the teaching workforce has a higher employment level (3.69 million) and more yearly job openings from 2023 to 2033 (392,200 from preschool to postsecondary levels), SLPs can accommodate plenty of new entrants.
There are currently over 30,000 openings for SLPs in the country.

Other Things You Should Know About a Career Change from Teacher to SLP

Which careers do most teachers switch to?

Many teachers who leave the profession transition into related roles such as school counselors, educational administrators, or instructional coordinators, leveraging their experience in education and student support. Others move into careers like corporate training, human resources, or speech-language pathology, where their communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills remain valuable. The shift is often driven by a desire for better work-life balance, reduced stress, and new professional challenges.

What motivates teachers to change careers to speech pathology?

Teachers often transition to speech-language pathology to continue making a meaningful impact on students while focusing more deeply on individual communication needs. Many are drawn by the opportunity to work one-on-one, see measurable progress, and apply their educational expertise in a clinical setting. The higher earning potential and strong job outlook also make speech pathology an appealing career change.

Can teachers get financial aid to retrain as speech pathologists?

Yes, teachers can often access financial aid to retrain as speech-language pathologists through federal student loans, grants, and scholarships. Programs like the TEACH Grant or the Perkins Loan Cancellation may apply, especially if they commit to working in high-need areas. Additionally, some universities and professional organizations offer targeted scholarships for career changers entering speech-language pathology.

Where do SLPs work?

SLPs work in a variety of settings, including public and private schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private clinics. They may also provide in-home services or work in telepractice roles. Their workplaces often depend on their area of specialization, such as pediatric care, adult rehabilitation, or school-based therapy.

References:

BLS (2024, April 3). 29-1127 Speech-Language Pathologists. BLS
BLS (2025, April 18). High School Teachers. BLS
BLS (2025, May 12). Industry: Cross-industry, Private, Federal, State, and Local Government. BLS
BLS (2025, April 18). Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers. BLS
BLS (2025, April 18). Middle School Teachers. BLS
BLS (2025, April 18). Postsecondary Teachers. BLS
BLS (2025, April 18). Preschool Teachers. BLS
National Center of Education Statistics (2023, March). Table 208.20. Public and private elementary and secondary teachers, enrollment, pupil/teacher ratios, and new teacher hires: Selected years, fall 1955 through fall 2031. National Center of Education Statistics
Tierney, A. (2024, November 12). Number of quits among teachers and other educational staff from September 2020 to September 2024. Statista