Here are three careers along with their educational requirements and relevant high school subjects that could help prepare you for each career:
1. Speech-Language Pathologist
Educational Requirements:
- A master’s degree in speech-language pathology is required.
- Completion of a clinical fellowship (a supervised professional practice).
- Certification from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), which includes passing the Praxis exam.
High School Subjects to Prepare:
- Biology: Understanding human anatomy and physiology, particularly the anatomy of the speech mechanism.
- Psychology: Gaining insights into human behavior and cognitive development.
- Communication Studies: Enhancing skills in effective communication and understanding language.
2. Social Worker
Educational Requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) is typically the minimum requirement; some positions may require a master’s degree in social work (MSW).
- Depending on the state, licensure may be required after completing the degree and gaining supervised clinical experience.
High School Subjects to Prepare:
- Psychology: Learning about human behavior, emotions, and social systems.
- Sociology: Understanding societal structures, relationships, and community dynamics.
- Health Education: Gaining knowledge about mental health issues and wellness.
3. Occupational Therapist
Educational Requirements:
- A master’s degree in occupational therapy (MOT) or a doctoral degree (OTD) is generally required.
- Completion of fieldwork experience and passing the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam to obtain licensure.
High School Subjects to Prepare:
- Biology: Understanding the human body, including anatomy and physiology.
- Health Sciences: Learning about various health-related topics and basic medical knowledge.
- Psychology: Gaining insight into the cognitive and emotional aspects of rehabilitation and daily functioning.
These educational paths and high school subjects can help set the foundation for success in these fields.