PhD Career Opportunities
Because of the growing demand for doctoral level professor/researchers, exacerbated by a diminishing supply of doctoral graduates (especially in communication sciences and disorders), career prospects for graduates of the Applied Language and Speech Sciences (ALSS) PhD program are excellent.
The demand for doctoral graduates exceeds by 2 to 8 times the number of doctoral graduates currently being produced by all of the institutions of higher education presently offering PhD training in our field. Surveys by the Council of Academic Programs in Communication Sciences and Disorders show that prospects for employment are enhanced by both the research emphasis and the diversity of training you will receive in the ALSS PhD offered at UL Lafayette.
Individuals who pursue a PhD are typically seeking careers in academics/research in colleges and universities. Responsibilities in such academic positions typically include teaching, research, and other scholarly activities. Research focuses on the normal functions of human communication, the processes underlying impaired function, and the development of new techniques for assessment and treatment. Teaching typically includes classroom teaching and research mentoring.
Other scholarly activities could include writing book chapters and textbooks, peer review of journal submissions, and presentation of continuing education seminars and workshops. The balance of teaching, research and other activities will vary depending on the type of university or college. In addition, PhD individuals may be employed at hospitals or clinics where clinical research is a part of the institution's mission.
The American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA) reports that there are currently many opportunities for careers in communication sciences and disorders (CSD) within colleges and universities, and it is anticipated that openings in faculty positions in CSD will continue over the next decade and beyond due to retiring senior faculty and a shortage of individuals pursuing the terminal degree. ASHA provides extensive information regarding PhD careers.
The Council of Academic Programs in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CAPCSD) maintains position announcements and postings from programs across the United States and some international positions.