ABSTRACT
The entry-level degree for professional practice in the field of speech-language pathology is the master's degree. Students must be informed of and follow the standards of ethical conduct in the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (Asha) Code of Ethics. In addition, students must have knowledge of research processes, evidence-based practice, and contemporary professional issues, as well as information pertaining to professional credentialing at the state and national levels. The intent of the Asha standards with regard to undergraduate preparation is to require students to have a broad liberal arts and science background. In most states, speech-language pathologists must comply with state regulatory standards to practice or have state education certification. Asha provides practitioners with a variety of guidelines designed to assist in clinical practice and educational training. The guidelines are the official statements of the association and define the roles and responsibilities of the professional with regard to disorders, documentation, best practices, and training or educational requirements.
