Licensure Requirements

Speech-Language Pathology Program

Speech-language pathologists must hold a master's or doctoral degree to be eligible for certification, licensure, and practice as a speech-language pathologist. National certification is obtained through the Council for Clinical Certification (CFCC) of the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA), which establishes the standards for certification. The CFCC awards the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP), a nationally recognized professional credential.

In addition to program coursework and practicum requirements, the standards for the CCC-SLP include passing the Praxis® Exam in Speech-Language Pathology and completing the equivalent of 36 weeks (full time) professional experience (the "Clinical Fellowship") post graduation. The Praxis Exam is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS).

Speech-language pathologists must be licensed to practice in Illinois pursuant to the requirements of the Illinois Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Practice Act (225 ILCS 110). Passing the Praxis® Exam is a requirement for licensure in most states, including Illinois.

The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) offers the School Service Personnel certificate (Type 73) for Speech-Language Pathology. This credential is necessary to work in Illinois public schools. The requirements of the program include a school-based practicum that will prepare students to meet the requirements for this additional credential.