Speech language pathologists analyze speech and treat people with speech or language impediments as well as individuals with swallowing difficulties. Pathologists can work with a wide age range from babies to the elderly. Grants are available for students pursuing their education to enter into this field as well as support the research of established scientists.
Nonprofit Organizations Dedicated to Communication Disorders
Organizations dedicated to individuals communication disorders can be a resource for all levels of research and educational funding. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Foundation (ASHFoundation), established in 1946, administers numerous awards, grants and scholarships to speech language pathologists. The foundation offers research grants, graduate degree scholarships and clinical achievement awards. The foundation also considers special projects that may lead to new programs or develop needed technologies.
University Funding
Universities and colleges that have speech language pathology degree programs can be a source of funding for both graduate and undergraduate students. Awards can help pay for tuition, fund research projects or cover travel expenses. The Department of Speech-Language Pathology at the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California, awards Pacific Fund Grants to both graduate and undergraduate students. As of August 2011, the award amount ranges from $100 to $1,000. The grant can be used to cover participation at a conference, membership dues to a national or state association or research leading to a presentation.
Regional Foundations
Regional foundations that support local speech language pathologists can also be a source for grant funding in addition to profession development and support. Some offer conventions and conferences allowing professionals and students to network and develop their knowledge base. The Florida Association of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists (FLASHA) awards scholarships for graduate students studying speech language pathology or audiology as well as research grants. Graduate scholarships are awarded to Florida residents who are full-time students at a college or university in Florida. As of August 2011, the grant award is $2,000.
Corporate Scholarships
Corporations that supply products and technology to those with communication impairments can be a source of funding. Progressus Therapy (progressustherapy.com) is an education company that works with school systems and early intervention programs providing them with speech, occupational and physical therapists. The company awards the CAPCSD/Progressus Therapy Scholarship. The scholarship is awarded to graduate students interested in providing speech and language therapy in a school or early intervention setting upon graduation. As of August 2011, the award amount is $3,000. The program is administered by Progressus in conjunction with the Council of Academic Programs in Communication Sciences and Disorders.
