Speech language pathologists diagnose and treat patients with hearing or balance related illness or injury. Duties include reviewing medical history, identifying treatment options, educating patients, and carrying out an individualized treatment plan. Speech language pathologists are required to hold a master’s degree from a program accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA), part of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Additionally, they must obtain licensure in their state. They should have excellent communication skills, critical thinking skills, compassion and patience. Employment opportunities for speech language pathologists are projected to increase much faster than average, driven by an increased consumer interest in health care.