speech language pathologist program

California Speech Pathology Degree Programs

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California hosts some of the largest varieties of graduate degrees in speech language pathology. Nearly 20 different programs have been accredited by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) , meaning the universities and colleges that hold the designation have met high professional standards for preparing their graduates to enter the fields of pathology and audiology. The most popular degree in California is the Master of Speech Pathology, and there are multiple universities in California that have online MSLP programs .

In California, there are multiple campus-based SLP programs at all degree levels. You might also consider a featured online SLP program below that is currently taking applications for its program.

California Cities with SLP Degrees

There are 19 total Master's programs in speech-language pathology and two locations with a Doctorate in Audiology. Around half of the Master's degrees in speech pathology are offered through locations under the California State University umbrella, and the majority of those are in South Carolina, including Long Beach, Los Angeles, and Northridge. Some institutions do stretch up to the Bay Area and further north, like Chico.

Two of the major cities, San Francisco and San Diego, have an option to pursue a Master of Science or Arts in Speech-Language Pathology or a Doctorate in Audiology . For those looking at an alternative online option, CSU in Northridge offers the Master of Science in Communicative Disorders that is also accredited by the ASHA and takes 41 months to complete.

Click for more online speech therapy programs that are currently taking applications for 2024 .

Online speech pathology programs in California

In depth review of top MSLP programs in California, updated for 2024

San diego state university - master of arts in speech-language pathology.

The School of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences only offers this program with, and students are administered into the program in the fall. The program usually takes two years to complete with enrollment in the fall and spring semesters, and one time during the summer. It is typical for students to enroll full-time with no or minimal work as there is no opportunity for part-time learning. All students have completed the program over the past four years and have passed the Praxis exam, which determines teachers' abilities they have learned in school.

At least 36 units are needed to complete the program, and there are two pathways to choose from - thesis or comprehensive exam. The latter has two attempts for students to pass. Students must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA in all 600-level courses and higher. Up to six transfer credits are accepted. Examples of courses in the curriculum include Speech-Language Screening of Children, Research methods in Communication Sciences and Disorders, Dysphagia, and two levels of Acquired Neurogenic Language and Cognitive Disorders.

University of California, Long Beach - Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology

The College of Health and Human Services offers the SLP program that features a clinical practicum and over 400 clinical hours working with patients directly through internship opportunities. Prerequisites needed in order to get into the program includes holding a Bachelor's degree with a major related to this field. For those with other backgrounds, they must have at least 30 units of coursework in communication disorders or SLP. 50 total credit hours are needed to complete this program, and it culminates with an option to complete a thesis or directed readings.

Many seminars are taken through this curriculum, which provides a detailed look at topics such as brain injury, literacy disorders for children and adults, motor speech disorders, autism, and dysphagia. In addition to the 14 total courses taken in the core curriculum, students must take two units of Clinical Methods in Speech-Language Pathology. Students are expected to maintain at least a 3.0 GPA throughout the program.

University of the Pacific - Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

There is both a Master's degree and Doctorate in Audiology offered by that is offered by the Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy and Health Science that is accredited by the ASHA. Students can choose from two length variations for the Master's degree. The first is a four-semester track that will supplement a student that already has received a Bachelor's degree in the field. The other is a six-semester option for those that have completed the degree in a different discipline. All students taking this program have passed the national Praxis examination.

Some courses will be split within a semester. For example, Adult Neurological Disorders, Research Methods, and Aural Rehabilitation are courses that are completed in either the first second eight weeks. These courses are taken in the second year for the 24-month path and in the first few semesters for the 15-month variation. The Doctorate of Audiology is also accelerated and takes three years to complete.

California audiology and speech language pathologist licensure overview

• What SLP degree is required for licensure in California? Doctorate
• What are the California SLP continuing education requirements? 24 hours per 2 years
• California SLP licensing information at ASHA.org: Website

List of Speech Pathology Programs in California

There are 21 CAA-ASHA accredited speech language pathology programs in California: 19 SLP Masters and 2 Doctorate.

Click to see more online programs that are taking applications now .

CAA ASHA Accredited California SLP Programs

List of the Best Speech-Language Pathology Programs in California

Slp licensure in california.

There are a few steps to follow in order to gain licensure in the state of California.

1. Complete a Master’s Program

Obtaining a Master’s degree is required, and all ASHA-accredited programs will have at least 60 credit hours and 300 hours of clinical practice that is supervised in order to determine if the graduate is able to treat patients effectively. Coursework should consist of various speech and motor disorders, clinical processes, speech therapy, and communication studies.

2. Gain Practical Professional Supervised Experience

After completing the degree, graduates must have 36 weeks of full-time professional experience, or 72 weeks of part-time, all of it being supervised. Holding a temporary license is required for the clinical fellowship, with students needing to pay a fee and proving that they have completed a higher education program with transcripts, report on clinical hours, and exam scores.

3. Praxis Examination

The national Praxis exam, which will test students on many subjects within speech-language pathology, is required for licensure in California and a score of 162 or higher is needed. Exams can be completed at dozens of test centers in the state, with some located at Bakersfield, Chico, Fresno, San Francisco, and San Diego.

California SLP Career Options

There are hundreds of SLP job opportunities in the state of California. Many schools have contract opportunities for a speech-language pathologist.

Soliant Health’s Partnership with LA Schools

Soliant Health has a partnership with schools in the Los Angeles location for specialists that can diagnose students with speech disorders. They have many opportunities across the state, part time and full time, and the majority will work with the kindergarten through 8th grades. They must have a state license and have completed a Master’s program. In Grand Terrace, a contract position is offering 35 hours per week for the rest of the school year and these professionals will work with middle school students with autism.

Kaiser Permanente in Oakland

Kaiser Permanente is a health care organization that is headquartered in Oakland and serves most states along the West Coast and in the Northeast.

There are consistent speech-language pathologist opportunities with various duties, such as performing diagnostic tests to determine disorders among their patients, creates reports on their findings and refers specialists to their patients, and works with physicians to create an adequate treatment plan.

• Online Speech Pathology Programs
• Online Speech Pathology Degree
• Online CAA Accredited SLP Programs
• Online Masters of Speech Pathology
• Online SLP Masters with No GRE Required

Speech Pathology Programs

• Best CAA Accredited Online SLP Programs
• Online MSLP with No GRE Required
• Speech Pathology
• Speech Therapy
• Speech Language Pathology (SLP)
• School Speech Therapy
• Bilingual Speech Pathology
• Speech Rehabilitation
• Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Communicative Sciences
• Hearing Sciences
• Occupational Therapy
• AAC Certification Augmentative and Alternative Communication
• CCC-SLP Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology

States for SLP Degrees

• North Carolina
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Communicative Disorders and Sciences

MS, Speech-Language Pathology

Our MS in Speech-Language Pathology offers an in-depth study of communication disorders with an emphasis on articulation and phonological disorders, fluency disorders (stuttering), augmentative and alternative communication, voice disorders, dysphagia (swallowing disorders), neurogenic communication disorders (aphasia, dementia), hearing disorders, language disorders, social aspects of communication, cognitive aspects of communication.

Courses and clinical opportunities place a high priority on assessment and intervention within an evidence-based, ethical, and multicultural framework. Upon completion of the master's degree, students are eligible to apply for certification with the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, California state licensure, and California Speech Language Hearing Services credential.

Program Overview

Student outcome data, program learning outcomes.

• Admission Requirements

How to Apply

Curriculum and roadmaps, fieldwork and observation.

• Complete the MS and Credential Requirements
• Additional Student Resources

Accreditation, Licensure, and Credential

• Upcoming Information Sessions
• Official Title: MS in Speech Language Pathology, with Speech Language Pathology credential
• Format: Full-time
• Units: 63 units (66 units for students entering program in F2024)
• Start date: Fall semester
• Program length: 2 years for in-field students, 3 years for out-of-field students
• Application deadline: January 15, 2025

Students in the MS degree program are expected to demonstrate competence in the Standards for the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology set forth by the Council for Clinical Certification in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CFCC) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. In addition, graduate students in the CD&S Department are also expected to demonstrate competence in our Program Learning Objectives . We are currently not accepting applications for our Distance Education program.

Residential Program

-2023-2024: 45 (100%) -2022-2023: 45 (96%) -2021-2022: 34 (100%) distance education program, - 2020-2021: 9 (100%) - 2019-2020: 8 (89%).

*The DE program currently does not have any students.

-2023-2024: 26/27 (96.30%) - 2022-2023: 23/26 (88.46%)  - 2021-2022: 28/28 (100%)

Distance Education Program

- 2021-2022: 2/2 (100%) - 2020-2021: 2/2 (100%) - 2019-2020: 4/4 (100%)

 Below are the program learning outcomes:

• PLO 1 Apply foundational knowledge of speech-language, hearing, and swallowing disorder in a professional setting.
• PLO 2 Identify types of least-biased assessment, differential diagnoses, and culturally responsive interventions when working with persons and families from diverse backgrounds.
• PLO 3 Provide collaborative, inter-professional, person-centered, and family-centered services to clients.
• PLO 4 Integrate evidence-based practice to guide and inform clinical decisions and service delivery.
• PLO 5 Model professionalism, ethical actions, and advocacy for persons with speech, language, hearing, and swallowing disorders.
• PLO 6 Use spoken and written communication skills appropriate for clinical practice in speech-language pathology.

Admission Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA or higher
• For applicants who come from a country where English is not the primary language and do not possess a baccalaureate degree from a post-secondary institution where English is the principal language of instruction, a higher English-language proficiency (ELP) test score is required as indicated on the Graduate Program Test Requirement webpage.
• GRE is not required for admission
• Applicants who will have completed all program prerequisites before program start date may apply to the two-year MS-SLP program. The two-year program is appropriate for applicants who completed an undergraduate or post-baccalaureate program in communication disorders that meet all the prerequisites.
• Applicants who will not have completed all program prerequisites before program start date should consider applying to the three-year extended MS-SLP program. The extended program is appropriate for applicants who majored in field of study other than communication disorders (i.e. out-of-field student; OFS). The prerequisite coursework may be completed in approximately two semesters.
• University Application: Cal State Apply
• Department Application: Communication Sciences and Disorders Centralized Application Service (CSDCAS)
• View our Instructions for Applying to the MS-SLP Program .
• Core courses - 39 units* (*see roadmap for cohort specific info)
• Practicum - 24 units
• Culminating experience - 0-3 units* (*see roadmap for cohort specific info)

For more details about the courses for this program, visit the  SJSU Catalog website . Below are samples of roadmaps for students who entered our program in recent years.

• 2024 Masters Degree Course Sequence [pdf]
• 2023 Masters Degree Course Sequence [pdf]
• 2022 Masters Degree Course Sequence [pdf]

A culminating experience is required for graduation and students have two options.

• Thesis . Students can conduct a research project under the advisement of a faculty member. Students electing to complete a thesis will enroll in thesis for three credits during Fall semester of the second year; OR
• Comprehensive exam . Students can successfully complete the comprehensive examination/project - also known as “comps” - during their final semester.

Clinical practica occur in a variety of settings, including our Kay Armstead Center for Communication Disorders . Students have clinical opportunities with infants, toddlers, children, adolescents, adults, and elders in a variety of settings, including public, private, and charter schools (preschool, elementary, middle, high schools), rehabilitation agencies, private practices, skilled nursing facilities, and hospitals.

Candidates for the Master’s degree must accumulate a minimum of 375 clock hours in a supervised clinical practicum in three distinctively different settings and 25 hours of guided observation with an ASHA certified clinician.

MS - Speech-Language Pathology Requirements

All of our department requirements, including minimum GPA, writing requirements, culminating experiences, additional certifications, and more are outlined on the SJSU Catalog website .

University Graduation Requirements

Students must complete all residency, curriculum, unit, GPA, and culminating experience requirements as outlined in the Graduation Requirements section of the Graduate Policies and Procedures .

Additional Resources

For information about financial aid opportunities, internship and job opportunities, research opportunities, and more, visit our  Student Resources webpage .

The Master of Science (M.S.) program in speech-language pathology (residential) at San José State University is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, 2200 Research Boulevard, #310, Rockville, MD 20850, 800-498-2071 or 301-296-5700.

Our Master of Science program is also an approved program of the California Licensing Board in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board and the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing .

How to apply for a credential

CDS Online Program Information 

Our fall 2024 application cycle has closed. The online program is only available to those students living in California with a degree in CDS. The deadline to apply for spring 2025 is October 1, 2024.

CDS is recruiting for Spring 2025 CDS Online Graduate Program Learn more about our online program and admission process.

• Online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
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An Online Pathway Designed for Your Success in Speech-Language Pathology

As the areas of professional practice for speech-language pathologists are rapidly expanding, so are the types of clients they are expected to serve. Ithaca College's online SLP program will equip you with broad clinical experience as well as academic instruction to be workforce ready.

Ithaca College’s online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) combines fully online coursework and prerequisites with immersive virtual simulations and in-person clinical experiences, and offers two pathway options:

• A General pathway for students with a background in communication disorders/speech-language-hearing
• A Leveling pathway that incorporates required speech-language-hearing courses for students who do not have that background.

About Ithaca's Online SLP Program

With more than 100 years of experience in SLP education, Ithaca College supports your journey to practice through fully online coursework and prerequisites (alongside in-person clinical experiences). The online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) is a competitively priced, accredited program designed to provide the same level of engagement and support you’d receive in an on-campus program. Here, you’ll benefit from: 

• Degree completion in less than 3 years 
• Our history of  exceptional program  outcomes 
• Immersive virtual simulations 
• Ongoing student support 
• No travel requirements (outside of in-person clinical experiences) 
• Clinical placement support in your local area 
• The opportunity to earn your degree while maintaining work/life balance 
• A connected learning environment 
• Engaged faculty dedicated to student success 
• A diverse community of peers from across the country 
• 53 total credits - general track
• 71 credits - leveling track
• 100% online coursework
• No on-campus residency requirement
• Accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
• 8 semesters, part-time (2.7 years to complete) - general track
• 11 semesters, part-time (3.7 years) - leveling track
• Two intakes per year (Fall and Spring)
• Tuition: $53,000 - general track
• Tuition: $71,000 - leveling track
• Bachelor’s degree with 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale)
• 2 letters of recommendation
• 25 observation hours (general track students only)
• Prerequisite courses
• Required Speech-Language-Hearing leveling courses (leveling track students only)

Required Speech-Language-Hearing Leveling Courses – Offered Online

These required foundational leveling courses are offered online by Ithaca College and can be built into your MSSLP program.

• Anatomy and Physiology of the Speech and Hearing Mechanisms
• Child Language Development
• Basic Audiology
• Basic Speech Science
• Clinical Observation - Leveling Students Only

An evaluation of your transcripts will determine what prerequisite courses are needed.

Prerequisite Science Courses*

One college-level course in each of the following must be completed before starting your MSSLP program, but you can apply to the program before the coursework is completed.

• Physics or Chemistry
• Social or Behavioral Science

An evaluation of your transcripts will determine what prerequisite courses are needed. *These courses are not offered online and are typically completed elsewhere.

Students from a number of states are welcome to apply to Ithaca College’s online SLP program. Please see our  State Authorization page  for more detailed information. 

Licensure Requirements: 

For SLP licensure, every state requires a graduate degree and a passing* score on the  Praxis Examination  in Speech-Language Pathology. Licensure requirements by state can be viewed  here.  Please see our state licensure disclosure  here . 

*Each state determines its passing score for professional licensure and teacher credentialing 

Accreditation

Ithaca College is accredited by The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

Ithaca College's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (CAA)*.

*The Master’s of Science (M.S.) education program in speech-language pathology (distance education) at Ithaca College is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association , 2200 Research Boulevard #310, Rockville, Maryland 20850, 800-498-2071 or 301-296-5700.

Our current accreditation period extends through January 31, 2027.

A copy of our department's vision, mission, and strategic plan is available for review .

Online SLP Program Curriculum Sample

Information is provided about the development of normal and disordered communication in children from 3 to 21 years of age. Includes material regarding important theories, legislation, service delivery models, assessment, remediation, literacy, and specific populations of special-needs children.  Attributes: TE. (3 Credits)

Objectives are to help the student understand basic statistical concepts utilized in research design and in speech-language pathology and audiology. Focus will be on the scientific method as a problem-solving process, developing experimental procedures for answering research questions, learning to establish and test hypotheses, and summarizing and interpreting data. (3 Credits)

Introduction to augmentative communication with discussion of its impact on individuals who are severely speech and language impaired. Students are familiarized with augmentative communication techniques and strategies. Assessment and intervention options are covered. Students have an opportunity for hands-on experience with a variety of augmentative communication devices and other adaptive equipment. Attributes: TE. (3 Credits)

Prepares students to identify, differentiate, and contrast the phenomenology, symptomatology, and diagnostic and therapeutic processes of adult aphasia, apraxia of speech, and related disorders. (S) (3 Credits)

Ready to Speak with an Advisor?

If this program seems right for your SLP future, simply click below to get started.

Take the First Step

STEP 1 Complete the Form  Enter your information and instantly access your digital program guide.

STEP 2 Attend an Information Session Webinar Learn from an Admissions Advisor about the program, prerequisites, qualifications, how to apply, and learn from a live audience Q&A.

STEP 3 Submit Your Application Gather the information you need and get started on your application.

STEP 4 Get Started on Your MS SLP Degree If you meet admissions requirements, look forward to earning your online MS SLP in 3 years or less.

How will I secure clinical experience placements?

Our dedicated placement team will help you find an appropriate clinical experience so you can save time and focus on your studies.

When do the clinical experiences take place?

Throughout your program, you will have four clinical practica, as well as two full-time externships in the final semester. These experiences will prepare you for a career in speech-language pathology.

What is involved with clinical experiences?

The clinical experiences are designed to provide you with real-world, hands-on experience to complement your classroom learning. These off-campus experiences in practice settings near your home enrich your graduate experience by preparing you for action in the field in a variety of settings.

How far will my clinical experiences be from my home?

Our dedicated placement team will work with you to secure a clinical placement as near to your home as possible.

"Today at my externship, I received the coin of excellence from the Commander of the hospital. This coin is given to recognize personnel who performed to excellence far beyond what is normally expected...I would not have been able to accomplish something like this if it was not for the speech-language pathology department at IC. Thank you."

- SLP Student

"Ithaca College is a community that helps you flourish and discover your true potential. I am the person I am today because of IC."

A Supportive Online Pathway to a Fulfilling SLP Career

With more than 100 years of experience in SLP education, Ithaca College supports your journey through fully online coursework with no travel requirements, clinical experience placements near your home, the same level of support you’d receive in an on-campus program, and exceptional program outcomes .

An Immersive and Connected Online Experience

Designed with the same rigor as a campus program, our online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program provides immersive virtual simulations, dedicated faculty attention, and the ability to connect with a diverse community of peers from across the country.

Why Ithaca College?

U.S. News & World Report (2023)

*Ithaca College has offered Speech-Language Pathology programs for more than 100 years as a campus-based program

Online SLP Program FAQs

The program is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (CAA)*.     *The Master’s of Science (M.S.) education program in speech-language pathology (distance education) at Ithaca College is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association , 2200 Research Boulevard #310, Rockville, Maryland 20850, 800-498-2071 or 301-296-5700.     Our current accreditation period extends through January 31, 2027.      A copy of our department's vision, mission, and strategic plan is available for review .    

The degree can be completed in 8 semesters (2.7 years) without prerequisite courses or 11 semesters (3.7 years) with prerequisite courses.

Yes! Ithaca College has a more than 100-year legacy in SLP education, so you can expect a quality education taught by expert faculty dedicated to student success.

Yes! This program is designed specifically for working professionals to maintain work/life balance. No campus visits or travel are required. However, in your last semester you will be expected to dedicate time to clinical experiences and work commitments may need to change.

Ithaca College’s offers two online pathways to an MS-SLP:

• A General pathway for those with a Speech-Language-Hearing background.
• A Leveling pathway that incorporates required foundational Speech-Language-Hearing coursework.

General students have a bachelor’s degree and have completed all their foundational Speech-Language-Hearing coursework.

• They have bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and disorders/speech-language hearing fields and have completed all the necessary foundational courses.
• They have a bachelor’s in another field but have completed the foundational SLP coursework in a leveling or bridge program.

Leveling students typically do not have a communication sciences and disorders/speech-language-hearing background and require foundational coursework to begin the MS-SLP program.

Ithaca’s MSSLP online leveling pathway includes 6 foundational speech-language-hearing courses, completed over 1 year before starting your graduate SLP courses.

Foundational Speech-Language-Hearing Leveling Courses are the core courses required to enter the MS-SLP program. These are typically included in a Speech-Language Hearing bachelor’s program or bridge program, but Ithaca College offers an optional online MS-SLP pathway that incorporates these foundational courses into the SLP degree .

Leveling courses include Anatomy and Physiology of the Speech and Hearing Mechanisms, Phonetics, Child Language Development, Basic Audiology, Basic Speech Science and Clinical Observation.

Prerequisite Science Courses are typically taken elsewhere and must be completed by both General and Leveling students before entering Ithaca’s MSSLP program. However, students can apply to the MSSLP program before the prerequisite coursework is completed.

Students must take one college class in Physics or Chemistry, Biology, Statistics and Social or Behavioral Science.

If you have completed any leveling courses with a B or higher, you do not need to retake them. Upon the completion and verification of a completed CSDCAS application, your application and transcripts are reviewed to determine your plan of study and any outstanding coursework, or requirements needed.

After reviewing our site, we encourage you to submit a request for information, which will direct you to a program brochure page with a link to register for one of our upcoming information session webinars. The information session webinar is a valuable opportunity to hear from an admissions advisor to gain a comprehensive understanding of the program, requirements, application process and more. You’ll also learn from a live audience Q&A session.

SLP By the Numbers

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Lightcast.io (2022)

The demand for speech-language pathologists is one of the fastest growing in the United States. SLPs work in a variety of environments, including education and healthcare, across the lifespan with individuals who are experiencing communication and/or swallowing disorders, including such positions as:  

•  Special education teacher  
•  Administrator  
•  College faculty  
•  Researchers  
•  Doctoral candidates  
•  Consultants  

What Can You Do With a Master's in Speech-Language Pathology?

Speech is the most basic form of communication and a critical part of our development — it makes us uniquely human. From infancy to the end of life, we use speech and language to learn, develop our personalities, and communicate our ideas and emotions. Language helps us view and adapt to the world around us.

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• Best Online Speech Pathology Programs

Best Online Speech Pathology Programs Of 2024

Updated: Mar 8, 2024, 2:25pm

Speech-language pathologists help patients dealing with communication disorders. These highly qualified professionals work with children and adults, often practicing in schools, healthcare facilities and private practices. They need patience, empathy, enthusiasm and a great deal of specialized knowledge.

Before practicing in the field, speech-language pathologists must earn licensure in their home states, which generally requires a master’s degree. Online degrees make this career path more accessible, as online speech pathology programs only require a limited amount of in-person clinical and internship experiences.

Read on to learn more about which accredited, nonprofit colleges in the U.S. offer online speech pathology master’s programs . We provide an overview of each school and program, including tuition and course requirements.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

Forbes Advisor’s education editors are committed to producing unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps and career paths. Our ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics , education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies our content to bring you trustworthy, up-to-date information. Advertisers do not influence our rankings or editorial content.

• 6,290 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
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Our Methodology

We ranked five accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online master’s degrees in speech pathology in the U.S. using 16 data points in the categories of credibility, affordability, student outcomes, student experience and application process.

We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites. Data is accurate as of June 2023.

We scored schools based on the following metrics: Student Outcomes:

• Overall graduation rate
• Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability:

• In-state graduate student tuition
• In-state graduate student fees
• Alternative tuition plans offered
• Median federal student loan debt
• Percentage of students in federal student loan deferment

Student Experience:

• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Socioeconomic diversity
• Availability of online coursework
• Total number of graduate assistants
• More than 50% of graduate students enrolled in at least some distance education

Credibility:

• Fully accredited
• Programmatic accreditation status
• Nonprofit status

Application Process:

• Acceptance rate

We listed all five schools in the U.S. that met our ranking criteria.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

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Top Online Speech Pathology Grad Programs

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Should You Enroll in an Online School for Speech Pathology?

Accreditation for online speech pathology schools, how to find the best speech pathology school for you, frequently asked questions (faqs) about online speech pathology programs, james madison university, university of south carolina, idaho state university, western kentucky university, university of akron main campus.

Graduate Tuition

$545/credit (in-state)

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education

Overall Graduation Rate

Based in Harrisonburg, Virginia, James Madison University offers an online Master of Science in speech-language pathology. Students can complete the part-time program in three years. Distance learners must fulfill significant in-person practicum requirements: a minimum of 375 clinical hours. The 45-credit curriculum also delves into topics like pediatric dysphagia and neuromotor speech disorders.

The program boasts a 100% PRAXIS pass rate in recent years. It holds accreditation through the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on a set schedule
• School Type: Public
• Application Fee: $60
• Degree Credit Requirements: 45 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Part-time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Pediatric dysphagia, neuromotor speech disorders
• Concentrations Available: N/A
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, typically during summer months

$573/credit

Headquartered in the state’s capital city, the University of South Carolina features an online Master of Science in speech-language pathology that admits only part-time students. Distance learners with an undergraduate background in speech-language pathology can complete the program in three years, while those without experience graduate in four years.

The program’s curriculum comprises 76 to 78 credits, including observation hours and 24 credits of clinical experience.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn around your 9-to-5
• Application Fee: Free
• Degree Credit Requirements: 76 to 78 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Language theory and phonetics; introduction to language development
• In-Person Requirements: Yes

$964/credit

Based in Pocatello, Idaho State University ’s M.S. in speech-language pathology allows students to choose between a thesis track and a non-thesis track. The degree includes a virtual clinical program that prepares learners for in-person placements in their area. Students complete multiple practicum experiences, labs and an externship.

Distance learners can complete the program in three years by taking fall, spring and summer courses. ISU discourages students from working full time while enrolled in the program.

• Application Fee: $55
• Degree Credit Requirements: 60 to 63 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Full-time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Early language development and disorders; speech sound disorders
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for a practicum

$707/credit

A state school based in Bowling Green, Western Kentucky University (WKU) offers an online SLP program that requires 60 credits. All students complete a six-week, in-person summer internship and take theory-based coursework in areas like aphasia, fluency disorders, speech sound disorders and rehab audiology. All learners accumulate at least 400 hours of clinical experience by the time they graduate.

WKU’s program is accredited by the CAA and meets requirements set by the American Speech Language and Hearing Association.

• Application Fee: $65
• Degree Credit Requirements: 60 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Social and cultural foundations in SLP, cognitive-communication disorders
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for internship

$463/credit

The University of Akron and the University of Cincinnati collaborated to create an online M.A. in speech-language pathology. The degree includes a school-based externship that distance learners complete at placement sites in their local communities. The curriculum also covers augmentative communication, developmental disabilities, dysphagia and research methods.

This program boasts a 100% PRAXIS pass rate in recent years. Out-of-state online students pay the same tuition rate as Ohio residents.

• Application Fee: $45
• Degree Credit Requirements: 74 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Developmental disabilities, public school issues in speech-language-hearing program
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for an externship

Whether an online speech pathology degree is a good fit for you depends on your unique goals and circumstances. To clarify your decision, ask yourself a few key questions:

• What are your other commitments? If you are a parent or plan to work while earning your speech pathology degree , a flexible online program can help you manage your commitments. You may want to enroll in a program that delivers coursework asynchronously, or without scheduled class times. However, even online SLP programs require in-person experiences.
• What’s your budget? Online learning is often more affordable than on-campus learning, as distance learners generally avoid costs associated with housing and transportation. Some state schools also allow out-of-state students to pay in-state or otherwise discounted tuition rates as long as they enroll only in online courses.
• What’s your learning style? Online learning requires organization, discipline and time management. If you rely on a peer group or classroom structure to help you exhibit those qualities, on-campus learning might provide a better fit.

When researching the best schools for speech pathology, look for two types of accreditation : institutional and programmatic.

Regional agencies award institutional accreditation to entire schools. With approval from the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education (CHEA), accrediting organizations vet schools for the quality of their programs, finances and faculty, among other factors. You should enroll only at an institutionally accredited school. Otherwise, you will be ineligible for federal student aid, and some employers may not recognize your degree.

To verify a prospective school’s accreditation status, visit their website or check CHEA’s directory .

Specific programs can earn programmatic accreditation. Not every field requires this type of accreditation, but it’s fairly common in speech-language pathology. Look for accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). This indicates the program meets high standards and will prepare you for state licensure.

Consider Your Future Goals

An online master’s degree in speech pathology leads to a limited set of career opportunities. Before enrolling in this highly specialized program, evaluate your long-term goals. Look into salary expectations, job opportunities and day-to-day responsibilities to make sure you want to pursue this role.

If you’re enthusiastic about a career in speech-language pathology , enrolling in a CAA-accredited program will prepare you to excel. These programs include clinical experience through practicum experiences, internships and externships, which you need to qualify for state licensure.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

Per-credit tuition rates for the five speech-language pathology programs in our guide ranged from $463 to $964, while credit requirements ranged from 45 to 76. Total tuition for our tanked programs totaled $24,525 to $60,732.

The National Center for Education Statistics found that graduate tuition and fees averaged $20,513 annually as of the 2021–22 academic year. Since most SLP programs take around three or four years to finish, this rate translates to approximately $62,000 for a full master’s degree in speech pathology. Comparatively, many of the programs on our list cost less.

Make sure to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) as your first recourse for financial aid. The FAFSA can help you access scholarships, loans, grants and work-study programs. Many of these opportunities are also available through schools and nonprofit organizations.

What is the best major for a speech pathologist?

The best major for a speech pathologist is typically speech-language pathology. This specialized degree can lead directly to state licensure and entry-level employment.

What kind of speech therapist makes the most money?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2022, speech-language pathologists working in nursing and residential care facilities earned $101,320, more than in any other work environment. Overall, speech-language pathologists earned a median salary of $84,140.

What state is the best for speech pathology?

As of May 2022, according to the BLS, California employed the most speech-language pathologists, with 17,100 total. California workers earned the second-highest mean annual wage: $108,960. Hawaii paid the highest mean salary, at $110,470.

How long does it take to become a speech pathologist?

Most of the programs in our guide take three or four years to complete. After earning your master’s degree, you must earn state licensure, which often involves taking the PRAXIS.

In what field do speech pathologists make the most money?

The BLS found that speech-language pathologists working in nursing and residential care facilities earned the most in any speech-language field as of May 2022.

Mikeie Reiland is a writer who has written features for Oxford American, Bitter Southerner, Gravy, and SB Nation, among other publications. He received a James Beard nomination for a feature he wrote in 2023.