Speech-language pathologists assess, diagnose, treat, and help prevent communication and swallowing disorders in children and adults caused by strokes, brain injuries, hearing loss, developmental delays, Parkinson's disease, cleft palate, or autism. Students earn an Associate in Science and Arts (ASA) degree at Muskegon Community College to transfer to a four-year institution, as the field typically requires at least a master's degree. Employment is projected to grow 18 percent from 2016 to 2026, driven by an aging population. Most practitioners work in schools or healthcare facilities.