Published on: 10 October 2021
Last Updated on: 13 January 2025
Is Technology A Good Career Path in 2021? How many jobs are available in the technology industry? What are the best paying jobs in the technology industry?
In the next few years, jobs in the tech industry are expected to grow exponentially. The companies also need to transform to keep up with the future of work.
If you are looking into possibilities for a new career change or a new professional, a tech career can be a good kickstart for you. It is because this is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world that provides full of job opportunities.
The answer to this question is an absolute Yes. You get quick employment opportunities in every sector as the demand is very high. Certified professionals can even find jobs without a college degree and this is one of the great benefits for them.
IT jobs will always be a good career path no matter what. These jobs will include long sitting at a computer and you must be prepared for the same beforehand.
This fastest-changing industry can change your life too if you utilize your knowledge and skills in the right way. This industry operates at a speed much faster than any other industry. Thus, technology is a good career path and can be the most rewarding in terms of salaries and opportunities.
Why Is Information Technology Successful In A Business Career?
There are many individuals who choose information technology as their career path due to the following reasons:
Better Income
You cannot deny the fact that IT professionals are well paid as compared to other sectors. A professional in the IT sector with the right mix of knowledge and certification can find a permanent position in both private and public industries.
At the same time, this job can offer great career advancement opportunities for a hardworking and dedicated IT professional.
Fastest Changing Industry
Another reason why technology is a good career path is due to its fastest changing industry and it is already discussed above. In this industry, there is always a demand for highly skilled workers.
At the same time, you can never stop learning about new trends in this field because technology gets updated every now and then.
Low Cost Of Education
The low cost of Education is one of the prime reasons why information technology is successful in a business career. As compared to many career choices, the cost of education is comparatively low here.
The more certification and knowledge you acquire here, the more advance you would be in your career.
How Many Jobs Are Available In The Technology Industry?
In the year 2017, there were over 7.3 million jobs available in the technology industry. Out of this, 6 million individuals worked in the private and the rest in the public and government sectors.
However, in the year 2019, a new report from CompTIA says the United States tech sector grew by 2.3 million jobs in the last year. So, the US tech industry alone had around 12.1 million employees.
The above statistics show the actual worth of the tech industry as compared to other sectors. If you are looking for something rewarding and notable, you can switch your career in tech.
What Are The Best Paying Jobs In The Technology Industry?
You get high rewards while working in the tech industry and some of the best paying jobs in the tech industry are:
i) Artificial Intelligence (AI)
The demand for Artificial Intelligence or Machine Learning is high. This is one of the best tech jobs that you choose in 2021 as your career path. They have a hand in the discovery of the Internet of Things (IoT) and it is gaining a lot of popularity in recent years.
ii) Data Scientist
Businesses and Organizations are collecting more and more data each day. This is the reason why it is required to have expert skills in Data Scientist. Moreover, the number of jobs available in this sector is also high and this can be a great advantage for you in the long run.
iii) Computer Research Scientist
Computer Research Scientist is also one of the rewarding careers in technology. These Scientists are at the forefront of technology innovation. For this post, you need a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a similar field. Besides, you need to discover excellent things with computer technology and help drive progress.
iv) Software Engineer
You might be aware of the profession of a Software Engineer. The skills required to become a software engineer can be useful in your day-to-day life. The average salary of these engineers varies from $134k per year. This is truly a huge income!
v) Information Security Analyst
The need for Information Security Analysts is very vital and they work on the front lines to secure information systems from cyber threats. Every company needs Security Analyst to protect their data from hackers on the internet or being misused by other individuals.
The Final Thoughts
Now, you have got an answer to your question “Is Technology A Good Career Path in 2021?” and I have tried my best to explain the query with complete statistics and information. The future of the tech industry is truly bright and also replacing the works of people working in other sectors.
Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.
Phlebotomists, also known as phlebotomy technicians, use venous or skin punctures to draw blood. These specialists are essential to the healthcare industry, especially when it comes to the diagnosis and treatment of illnesses. Phlebotomy services can be used by patients to receive transfusions, donate blood or plasma, or test for medical conditions.
In addition, phlebotomy technicians have strict guidelines to follow when labeling biological samples, handling needles and other tools, and entering patient data into databases. These workers must execute their duties carefully and safely since they deal with biological samples.
Engaging with patients and making a difference in their care is a rewarding experience for many phlebotomists. Phlebotomists who are kind can ease patients' anxieties about having their blood drawn, as many patients find the procedure uncomfortable. These technicians can also discuss the significance of blood collection
Phlebotomist employment prospects appear to be favorable. According to BLS projections, employment in this field will increase by 22% between 2020 and 2030, while jobs in healthcare will grow by 16% and all occupations by 8% during the same period. Here is everything you need to know about how to become a phlebotomist.
How to Become a Phlebotomist?
Becoming a phlebotomist does require specialized training. Fast-paced work environments and frequent client interaction necessitate that professionals in the field possess the following qualities:
Although phlebotomists are frequently employed in laboratory environments, some have more flexibility in their work environment when they work for ambulatory services. They might still have to put in overtime or on the weekends, for example, if they work in a lab.
Learn more about how to become a phlebotomist in this article, along with the procedures for obtaining national certification and education.
Requirements on How to Become a Phlebotomist
Before getting into the details of how to become a phlebotomist let us clear up the basics. Candidates must earn a GED or complete their high school education. It could be beneficial to take science and anatomy classes in high school. After that, people can enroll in phlebotomy programs, which typically leads to certification after 4–8 months of training. Community colleges, technical schools, and trade schools all offer these kinds of programs.
To practice, phlebotomy graduates in California, Louisiana, Nevada, and Washington must obtain certification. To improve their chances of finding work, professionals in other states should still think about obtaining a postsecondary credential. Phlebotomists have access to a range of certifications, such as:
Certified Phlebotomy Technician I: Trains medical personnel to take blood samples via venous and skin punctures.
Certified Phlebotomy Technician II: Trains medical personnel to perform venous, arterial, and skin punctures to collect blood.
Limited Phlebotomy Technician: Someone who trains medical professionals to take blood via skin punctures.
Certification and Licensure
Acquiring certification to become a phlebotomist requires a written and practical exam. The test will include about 300 questions. The clinical component will include a demonstration of sample labeling, skin, and venous blood draws, and sanitization procedures. Phlebotomists can then acquire the certification from different organizations, such as:
American Society for Clinical Pathology
National Center for Competency Testing
American Certification Agency for Healthcare Professionals
American Medical Technologists
National Healthcareer Association
National Phlebotomy Association
American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians
To stay up to date in their field, phlebotomists—especially those who need to renew their certification—must complete continuing education. The requirements for ongoing phlebotomist training vary by state, but most professionals must earn roughly six credits of continuing education annually. To fulfill these requirements, phlebotomists might be able to enroll in classes at community colleges or vocational schools or attend conferences.
Training to Become a Phlebotomist
Learning how to become a phlebotomist involves taking crucial courses and earning certification. Both laboratory experience and classroom instruction are prerequisites for certification programs. Topics including anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology, are typically covered in courses. Students may need to take prerequisite coursework if they are unable to demonstrate algebraic or mathematical proficiency at the high school level.
While it's uncommon, some people with a high school or GED opt for on-the-job training rather than phlebotomy school. Phlebotomists are required by state regulations to follow certain guidelines regarding certification and ongoing education, regardless of their educational background.
What Does a Phlebotomist Do?
Before you want to know about how to become a phlebotomist, here is what you should know about what a phlebotomist does. A phlebotomist, another name for a phlebotomy technician, is a medical professional qualified to take blood samples from people. They might also help with blood drives and transfusions, depending on where they work. Apart from extracting blood from patients, they also process blood samples for analysis, gather patient data, and assist patients who might feel uneasy with needles.
The main responsibility of a phlebotomist is to take blood samples from patients as directed by a physician or other healthcare provider. On the other hand, your practice might also involve labeling vials, checking vital signs, chatting with patients about the blood draw procedure, and maintaining a sterile and clean work area. During your shift, you might also be required to carry out the following tasks, depending on where you work:
Gather data and make updates to patient medical records.
Fill out the paperwork and mark the vials.
Make patients more at ease while having their blood drawn.
Place a supply order
Arrange the necessary vials, needles, and other supplies in the work area.
Joining a professional organization can benefit your career in the long run, even though most charge a membership fee. These organizations give you a route to certification, facilitate networking, and assist you in keeping up with new methods or regulations.
National Phlebotomy Association
The National Phlebotomy Association (NPA) provides workshops, training courses, and professional certifications, such as a credential for phlebotomy instructors, to facilitate continuing education. For full- and part-time jobs in phlebotomy and other allied health fields, the organization maintains a job board.
American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians, Inc.
The American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians, Inc. (ASPT) certifies both graduates of recognized programs and employed phlebotomy technicians. Members of NHA, ASCP, and AMT are eligible to receive benefits from the organization. Members have access to nonprofit events, cross-training workshops, and opportunities for ongoing education.
Additionally, ASPT offers an EKG fundamentals program and a phlebotomy refresher course. There is a $65 exam fee and a $35 membership fee for phlebotomy technicians.
National Healthcare Association (NHA)
NHA offers phlebotomy technicians immersive learning opportunities in addition to professional certification. Practice drills, interactive games, and quizzes are among the available resources intended for educators and students.
For allied health professionals, NHA offers a job board, resume review services, and career planning guidance.
By showcasing and improving your skills, obtaining a professional certification can increase your marketability even if your state or employer does not require it. Examine the prerequisites for the following three popular certifications.
Technician in Phlebotomy (PBT)
There are various ways to become certified in PBT offered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP). Candidates must possess one year of full-time clinical experience or have finished an authorized phlebotomy program within the previous five years. Programs must fulfill minimum instruction requirements, be approved by the California Department of Public Health, or accredited by NAACLS.
In addition to paying a $145 application fee, candidates must pass an 80-question exam.
Certified Technician in Phlebotomy (CPT)
Candidates must successfully finish a phlebotomy training program or one to two years of supervised phlebotomy technician experience to be eligible for the National Healthcareer Association's CPT distinction. Blood collection, patient preparation, and safety and compliance are all covered in the two-hour certification exam. The exam is $125, and you can buy a study guide or practice test to get ready.
Every two years, CPTs need to renew their certification by paying $179 and completing continuing education requirements.
Colleges That Offer Phlebotomy as a Course
Since phlebotomy students must acquire practical skills in blood withdrawal and collection, phlebotomy programs are typically offered on campus at educational institutions. The programs that prospective phlebotomists can find in the United States are listed below. However, keep in mind that this is just a small selection of all the programs that are offered all over the country. When you want to know how to become a phlebotomist, the college you must go to is an equally important aspect to consider.
Abrams College
The didactic component of Abrams College's phlebotomy program is offered over two weeks, on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM in Modesto, California. This equates to 48 hours of classroom instruction. To proceed to the externship experience, students must pass all tests and complete all skill station requirements.
The 40-hour externship takes place in a hospital or clinical laboratory. Students who complete the program receive a certificate and should be qualified to apply for both state and national licensure.
Cuyahoga Community College
Cleveland, Ohio's Cuyahoga Community College provides a short-term certificate program in laboratory phlebotomy. Students are trained in blood collection, specific blood collection techniques, medical terminology, ethics, and other related areas through a skills-based didactic curriculum. Students also need to finish an eight-week clinical externship at a hospital or clinic.
Graduates of this NAACLS-accredited program have completed it with a 100% job placement rate and a cumulative 95% pass rate on certification exams over the last three years. Furthermore, transfer programs are offered to students who wish to graduate with a bachelor's degree from an institution in partnership.
Iowa Western Community College
The phlebotomy program at Iowa Western Community College in Council Bluffs consists of 120 hours of clinical experience and 80 hours of classroom instruction. The students receive their clinical placement assignments during the sixth week of the program. After finishing, they ought to be qualified to take the American Society for Clinical Pathology national certification exam. Students must adhere to a rigorous professional dress code and present documentation of their vaccinations upon admission to the program.
Santa Fe College
Students can finish the two-semester phlebotomy certificate program at Santa Fe College in Gainesville, Florida. In the first semester, students attend 60 hours of classroom instruction, and in the second semester, they complete 105 hours of clinical phlebotomy rotations.
Students must pass a background investigation and have all necessary vaccinations to be admitted. This course also includes instruction on bloodborne pathogens, HIPAA compliance, and CPR certification. The NAACLS is requesting approval for this program.
South Arkansas Community College
Students enrolled in the one-semester program at South Arkansas Community College in El Dorado, Arkansas, are prepared for careers in phlebotomy. Students can obtain their certification in phlebotomy by completing seven credit hours of coursework in phlebotomy, professionalism, patient relations, and medical technology.
In addition to working at least 100 clinical hours in designated healthcare facilities, students must complete 100 successful unaided collections and maintain a grade of C or higher in all courses. The practicum is set up by the program director. This program is accredited by NAACLS, and there is a 14-student maximum per class.
Cost of Courses in Phlebotomy
Programs for phlebotomy are reasonably priced when compared to the potential earnings. The cost of a course can vary from $700 to $3,000, based on the training duration and school. Students who want certification also need to pay a test fee, which ranges from $90 to $200. States that demand licensing will also pay an additional $58 to $200.
According to data from the BLS (May 2022), the average hourly wage in this field was $19.51, or $40,580 per year. Phlebotomists mean wages were higher in California, Massachusetts, Washington, D.C., New York, and California—all over $46,900.
Wrapping Up
It can take a year or less to become a phlebotomist, depending on the educational program and whether the student wants to pursue national certification. It could take longer in some states because of the various certification requirements for employment in those states.
The duration of education programs varies based on the type of school and program students enroll in, ranging from eight weeks to less than a year. Programs at community colleges might require more time, while those at vocational schools might be quicker. To receive a certificate or diploma and land a job, completing the program's didactic and clinical hours is necessary.
Although it's usually not necessary, national certification can be useful when applying for jobs.
Depending on the student's exam preparation and certification motivation, this could take several months or longer to finish. Nonetheless, there are typically time constraints on when a learner can sit for national certification after completing a program.
Few states require certification, so working as a phlebotomist can be accomplished in less than a year—especially if the student enrolls in one of the faster-paced programs.
If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about how to become a phlebotomist, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!
We also have more information if you want to know how to become a pediatrician, a therapist, an orthodontist, an anesthesiologist, a psychologist, or a physician assistant.
Learn More About:
Therapist Or Psychiatrist: Which One Is Right For You?
Life with Braces: Tips from Surrey’s Orthodontic Experts
What Does A Career In Anesthesiology Look Like? Click To Know
When thinking about a career in respiratory care, one of the first things that comes to mind is: What kind of training and certification are necessary to work as a respiratory therapist?
The quick response is that a bachelor's degree is preferred, but an associate's degree is necessary. The National Board for Respiratory Care refers to the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential as the "standard of excellence" for respiratory care professionals. To obtain it, you must also pass the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam. A master's degree is something many accomplished respiratory therapists eventually obtain to broaden their expertise, abilities, and professional options.
There is, of course, much more to it than that. So, let's take a moment to breathe deeply before we get into all the specifics of how to become a respiratory therapist.
How to Become a Respiratory Therapist: Overview
One of the fundamental necessities of life is the ability to breathe. Patients rely on respiratory therapists to enhance their quality of life and assist in their recovery due to the multitude of types and causes of breathing problems.
Respiratory therapists collaborate with physicians and nurses as experts in breathing support and monitoring to assess, identify, and manage a wide range of respiratory disorders.
They assist patients with respiratory infections, chronic lung diseases like emphysema, bronchitis, asthma, cystic fibrosis, and more as part of their work. Patients who have had a major accident or who have suffered a heart attack or stroke may also receive emergency care from them. Patients range in age from elderly people to premature babies.
A respiratory therapist's workday can be both rewarding and difficult. Most therapists have some basic duties regardless of whether they work in an outpatient clinic, hospital, or home care setting. An average day for a respiratory therapist could include:
Obtain patient medical histories and conduct baseline chest exams.
Examine gas and oxygen levels in the blood
Recognize lung conditions and choose appropriate treatments
Inform patients and their families about therapeutic activities and regimens.
Conduct patient assessments and suggest modifications to treatment plans to attending physicians.
Respond to calls for emergency care in case of sudden cardiac arrest or other crises.
The field of respiratory care is very significant, and it may be the best fit for kindhearted people who want to work in lung-related healthcare.
Education and Credentialing on How to Become a Respiratory Therapist
According to the American Association of Respiratory Therapists (AARC), the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) is the body that accredits respiratory therapy schools, and respiratory therapists are required to hold at least an associate degree from a recognized respiratory therapy education program.
Still asking how to become a respiratory therapist? A bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy opens the door to more employment and career opportunities. However, most practicing respiratory therapists pursue this degree further.
These courses are meant to get students ready for certification in respiratory therapy from the National Board for Respiratory Care. The following qualifications are provided by the NBRC and are thought to be prerequisites for licensure.
Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT)
Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)
A license to practice respiratory therapy is a prerequisite for becoming a certified respiratory therapist (CRT) in every state. Nonetheless, there is a growing national movement to mandate that all respiratory therapists with licenses possess the RRT certification. Additionally, the NBRC grants specialized credentials in several fields, such as:
Adult critical care
Pediatric and neonatal respiratory care
Technology for pulmonary function
Testing for sleep disorders
Many experienced respiratory therapists pursue a master's degree in respiratory therapy, and according to the AARC, "earning an advanced degree in respiratory therapy has many personal and professional benefits." According to the AARC, advanced degrees can prepare respiratory therapists for positions as clinical specialists, disease managers, or case managers. They can also serve as a basis for careers as managers, formal educators, or researchers.
Many employers may cover the cost of tuition for staff members who want to pursue bachelor's or master's degrees in respiratory therapy. The AARC also provides information on loans and scholarships related to respiratory therapy.
The AARC offers additional career and networking strategies, such as:
Join your state society to network as well as meet other professionals in the field. Opportunities to volunteer with the RTs, who may be regional or state decision-makers, are one example of this.
For an informational interview, give your dream job's HR department a call. This will allow you to introduce yourself and find out more about the company and the qualities they are seeking in a candidate.
Attending conferences on respiratory therapy. These regional, state, and national conferences for respiratory therapists can offer you a chance to network as well as refresh your knowledge.
Participate in health fairs as a volunteer or attend events specific to your profession, such as Drive4COPD.
Become a Respiratory Therapist: Prospects for Employment
The need for licensed respiratory therapists is currently in high demand in the United States, mostly because of aging populations and poor air quality. Respiratory therapist employment is predicted to grow by 23% by 2026, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which is significantly faster than the average growth rate for all industries. Additionally, according to the BLS, the typical compensation for respiratory therapists is $60,280.
The following are some recent job titles for respiratory therapy that can be found on the American Association for Respiratory Care Job Board:
Respiratory Therapist
Health and Medical Services Manager
Respiratory Therapy Technician
Respiratory Function Technologist
Pulmonary Rehabilitation Manager
Respiratory Services Site Manager
Respiratory Care Practitioner
Life Flight Neonatal/Pediatric Respiratory Therapist
Respiratory Therapy Supervisor
Assistant Professor – Respiratory Care
Director of Clinical Education, Respiratory Therapy
A bachelor's or master's degree is required for some of these positions. In fact, by 2020, 80% of RTs should either have earned or be pursuing a bachelor's degree, according to AARC, which also notes that graduate degrees are necessary for upper-level management and teaching positions. “How to become a respiratory therapist” is a question more complicated to answer than ask.
Benefits of an Online Degree in Respiratory Therapy
For those employed as respiratory therapists and those who want to work in this industry, online degree programs can be a great choice. For instance, the online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy program offered by the University of Cincinnati equips qualified Registered and Certified Respiratory Therapists (RRTs) and CRTs for advanced clinical practice, graduate school, and management opportunities.
The program is intended to help you advance your clinical skills and gain a deeper understanding of advanced healthcare operations, logistics, technology, leadership, ethics, and project management. It has a robust curriculum that focuses on advancing respiratory therapy practice and research.
How To Become a Respiratory Therapist?
To become a respiratory therapist, one must fulfill several requirements as a qualified medical practitioner. Read below for information on the training, experience, certification, as well as license needed to work as a respiratory therapist.
Obtain a Degree in Respiratory Therapy
A minimum associate degree in respiratory therapy is required to work as a respiratory therapist. Human anatomy, physiology, and respiratory care procedures and tests are all covered in a typical respiratory therapy education program. Students studying respiratory therapy typically complete clinical hours in addition to their coursework, which gives them practical experience working with patients.
For full-time students, an associate degree typically takes two years to complete. Certain respiratory therapy programs provide expedited pathways that enable students to complete their degrees faster. Naturally, students who study part-time take longer to complete their degrees.
Nonetheless, a bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy can make you stand out from the competition because some employers might favor hiring respiratory therapists with a higher level of education. For full-time students, most bachelor's programs require four years.
Select a program that has been accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC), regardless of the degree level you intend to pursue. CoARC's program directory allows you to determine if the program you are considering is accredited.
Finish Internship
An internship offers more practical experience in respiratory therapy. Even though clinical experiences are completed as part of the degree program. Internships help you build your professional network as well as find mentors. They can also help you land a job once you graduate.
Acquire Certification
The National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) offers professional certification applications that you can submit after receiving your degree in respiratory therapy. The Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) and Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credentials are the two most widely held certifications in the field. Your concentration may determine whether you need to pursue a more specialized certification. Here is more information about the certification procedure.
Request a License
Alaska is not among the 49 states where practicing respiratory therapy requires a license. The CRT or RRT are the two primary certifications for respiratory therapists. Possession of either one is a prerequisite for licensure in every state that regulates respiratory therapy. States may have different additional licensing requirements, so find out more by contacting the health board in your state.
Salary and Jobs for Respiratory Therapists
As a respiratory therapist, your pay will vary based on your position, employer, level of education as well as experience. As of May 2022, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states that the median yearly salary for respiratory therapists was $70,540.
There ought to be a lot of available jobs in this industry. According to BLS projections, employment of respiratory therapists is expected to grow by 13% between 2022 and 2032, which is significantly faster than average. Salary thus becomes a very crucial part of the discourse when asking “how to become a respiratory therapist.”
How Long Does It Take to Become a Respiratory Therapist?
A common question among students considering respiratory therapy careers is how long it takes to become a respiratory therapist. For professionals pursuing an associate's degree, becoming a respiratory therapist in the US requires at least two years of training. But the time it takes you to become a respiratory therapist is up to you! If you're pursuing a bachelor's degree, then it could take up to four years to become a respiratory therapist.
The learning process does not end there.
Respiratory therapists can continue their education to become more specialized in areas such as management even after they receive their accreditation. Furthermore, advanced degrees in respiratory therapy provide excellent learning opportunities in addition to professional advancement.
The knowledge underlying respiratory care is always changing. This is much like many other subfields in healthcare. Obtaining more education is one way to stay "up to date" on the latest developments.
Is Nursing Easier Than Respiratory Therapy?
Comparing a respiratory therapist to a nurse is like comparing apples to oranges in many aspects.
However, some contend that respiratory therapy may not be as difficult as nursing. In addition to supporting the patient's entire body, nurses offer general education. In the meantime, respiratory therapists focus exclusively on the heart and lungs. Consequently, the autonomy that comes with being a respiratory therapist may not be present in nursing.
Despite their differences, respiratory therapists and nurses face similar difficulties in their line of work. Whether they are helping those on life support or tending to patients with breathing difficulties, they are on the front lines of patient care.
In addition to the potential for infectious diseases and occasionally demanding work schedules, a career in respiratory therapy can be both fulfilling and taxing.
Wrapping Up
Those who want to work on the front lines of patient care as well as change the healthcare system should consider a career as a respiratory therapist.
The path to becoming a respiratory therapist can be challenging. It will require an associate's or bachelor's degree in addition to NBRC-recognized certification. Respiratory therapy is not for the faint of heart, especially when combined with the occasionally long hours and stress of the job.
But aside from the bright prospects for employment and the attractive pay, it's tremendously fulfilling to know that your skill and attention can save a patient's life.
If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about how to become a respiratory therapist, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! If you want more career options, click here.
Learn More About:
How To Become A Physician Assistant In 7 Years Or Less
Step-By-Step Guide On Becoming An Esthetician In 2024
Self-Care Deficit Nursing Theory In Adult Gerontology Nursing
Speech Pathologists can easily identify speech and swallowing issues, which would help find several impactful treatment methods. A speech pathologist can specialize in several domains, such as helping adults or children. Or else they can focus on the specific speech-language disorder. Many candidates like you want to know how to become a speech language pathologist. Well, their intentions are always to achieve goals.
Besides, you also must be passionate about your career, especially in health care. In this case, you must also improve your communication skills, which might help you become a speech pathologist.
Recently, a speech pathologist received intensive education and training to diagnose and treat patients with speech impediments. It means you can easily afford to complete your education for this career, like a nurse anesthetist. Even more, it would help if you learned how to pursue your career to decide whether it is right for you easily.
How to Become a Speech Language Pathologist?
Becoming a speech pathologist means you are going through the practice of appraising, evaluating, and treating children and other adult patients. Below, I will discuss how to become a speech language pathologist.
1) Earn A Bachelor's Degree
The first step in beginning your career path is to earn a bachelor's degree. In this case, an ardent speech pathologist can get a bachelor's degree in communication disorders and communication sciences.
This kind of program degree includes research methodology, statistics, linguistics, language disorders, and so on in the child and the anatomy of hearing and speech mechanism issues. Apart from that, you might earn your undergraduate degree in a subject such as English, psychology education, or linguistics like you must need to earn for pursuing the data scientist career.
2) Obtain A Master's Degree In Speech Language Pathology
Once you earn a bachelor's degree, you can pursue your master's degree in speech language pathology. By selecting the graduate degree program, you must ensure its accreditation from the American Speech Hearing Association.
This type of master's degree involves practical clinical hours under the administration of a licensed speech pathologist. In this case, you would be getting experience working with patients. The requirements for these practical hours vary from state to state, ranging from 300 to 375.
3) Complete The Post-Graduate Fellowship
You can apply for the post-graduate fellowship once you hold your graduate and undergraduate degrees. In this case, licensure is necessary for pursuing your career as a speech language pathologist likewise you must be required to get the license to pursue your career as an artificial intelligence architect. This fellowship program is the phase of practical training a candidate can complete under the mentorship and supervision of an ASHA-certified and licensed speech pathologist.
Your state requires you to acquire a temporary one-year license to finish your fellowship. You can also apply for this license, and then you can easily garner a copy of your master's degree and submit the clinical fellowship plan.
4) Take The National Exam in Speech-language Pathology
Once you complete your undergraduate and graduate fellowship programs, you can apply for the post-graduate fellowship. This is necessary for licensure. This fellowship is the phase of several other practical trainings that a candidate can complete under the mentorship and supervision of an ASHA-certified.
There are other requirements which vary from state to state. However, most other states need a fellowship duration of 36 weeks (about 8 and a half months) or 1260 hours (about one month, three weeks), with 80% of this time.
In this case, your state might require that you obtain a temporary one-year license to finish your fellowship. If you are interested in applying for this license, you can garner a copy of your master's degree and then submit the clinical fellowship with your supervisor's signature.
5) Apply For the Certification
Multiple states require speech pathologists. In this case, you must gain a certificate of clinical competency in speech-language pathology. You can also apply for this certificate. It happens after you finish your master's degree successfully.
Once you receive the certificate, then, you must expect to take at least 30 hours to continue these education courses, which happens every three years to maintain this.
6) Obtain The License to Practice in Your State
Once you are done with the certificate, you obtain the license to practice in your state. Eventually, it involves submitting your exam results, a criminal background check, and an application fee.
Other states have the exact requirements, such as passing the jurisprudence exam on the state's laws and rules. In this case, you must keep your license as a speech pathologist. After that, you can complete the necessary renewal requirements your state outlines.
7) Prepare Your Resume and Cover Letter
You must apply for the speech pathologist job once you can obtain the necessary education, license, and qualifications. You must begin seeking a job by writing a cover letter and resume. In this case, it includes education and an outline of the clinical experience you gained through your education.
What Are the Reasons for Becoming a Speech Pathologist?
If you want to become a speech pathologist, it often requires several years of education. However, there are still multiple benefits to working as a pathologist. Below, I will discuss the reasons for becoming a speech pathologist.
1) Gain Options for Employment
Did you know that speech pathologists can work in several environments? On the other hand, this can enhance your employment options. For example, some speech pathologists work in hospitals, others work independently with clients, or you can start their practices.
There are some locations where a speech pathologist can work, such as:
Rehabilitation locations
Hospitals
Residential Healthcare locations
Universities and Colleges
Elementary Schools
Preschools
Private Facilities
State Government Agencies
Corporate research facilities, and so on.
2) Earn the Competitive Salary
Another significant factor in becoming a speech pathologist is your salary. In this case, a speech pathologist's earnings depend on their experiences, education, and performance.
The average national salary for a speech pathologist is around $111,685 per year. Other factors include the speech pathologist's location, training, etc.
3) Help Others
Multiple speech pathologists can work closely with children and help them overcome speech disorders. Somehow, it would become difficult to communicate with others.
Aside from that, in this position, you could help others develop their social skills, and you can quickly improve the quality of your life. Speech pathologists can significantly affect their clients and promptly enhance their lives by developing speech and swallowing challenges.
4) Specialize In Several Years
It depends on your interests, and here, you can specialize in a particular area of speech pathology. Some pathologists can choose to work exclusively with adults and children. In this case, they can focus on several areas of speech pathology, such as language disorders or other mechanical issues.
There are other specialties and areas of speech pathologists who might consider such things as:
Travel Speech
Adult Speech
Cognition Communication
Pathology Management
Pediatric speech and so many others.
5) Develop Your Professional Skills
Speech pathologists can work with multiple individuals, which allows them to learn more about other disorders. Moreover, it will also help you to develop your professional skill sets and help you understand other potential treatments and disorders.
As the field continues to grow, you can learn about other improving techniques for treatment. In this way, you can improve your research skills.
6) Work With Unique Patients
Being a speech pathologist, you can get the opportunity to work with other clients for several years of life. This includes learning English for the first time—especially for those facing several communication challenges and seeking treatments for lifelong conditions.
It makes this easier for pathologists who want to meet new people and interact with those with exciting backgrounds. If you enjoy learning more about new people, ensure you have built a diversified network. In particular, it is one of the most significant career choices for those pursuing careers in a healthcare center.
7) Research In the Laboratory
If you want to become a speech pathologist, you will get an excellent opportunity to work with clients throughout your career. On the other hand, it will make it easier for other pathologists who want to meet new people and interact with people from a diverse and exciting background.
If you want to enjoy learning more about new people and if you want to build your network, then pursuing your career as a speech pathologist is a viable choice.
8) Consider Self-employment
There are several types of speech pathologists. In this case, one kind of speech pathologist wants to work in hospitals, and another wants to work independently.
Speech pathologists can enjoy controlling their schedules and other workloads and enjoy working independently as speech pathologists. Being a speech pathologist, you might open your private practice and maintain your clients and other professionals.
In Conclusion
I have discussed everything about how to become a speech language pathologist above in this article. As a speech pathologist, you can quickly identify speech and swallowing issues and help them find effective methods. Aside from that, being a speech pathologist, you must have some significant regular responsibilities to help you pursue your career.
I hope you find this article helpful. If you have queries, then comment below!
Learn More About:
What Soft Skills Do You Need As A Live-in Carer?
Speech Therapists Unlocking The Power Of Communication
The Road To Psychiatry: A Timeline Of Education And Training
