25 Best Master’s Degrees in Speech Pathology
Discover a program that is right for you.
Speech pathologists can make a positive difference in the lives of people with speech and swallowing problems. Those who pursue a career in speech pathology are licensed to diagnose, treat, and work to prevent language or swallowing disorders. They often work in hospital settings and schools, providing one-on-one treatments. Their services can dramatically impact patients and clients by helping them develop speech confidence.
To work in this field, professionals need a master’s degree in speech pathology. A master’s degree in speech pathology typically takes 2-4 years to complete, depending on the program format and whether a student enrolls part-time or full-time.
Speech pathologists enjoy strong job prospects. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects demand for speech pathologists to grow 25% between 2019 and 2029. This guide covers important information for anyone considering a master's in speech pathology, including common courses, prospective careers, and earning potential.
Master's in Speech Pathology Programs for You
These top schools offer a variety of online graduate degree programs. Figuring out where to apply? Consider one of these online Master’s or PhD programs.
Best Master’s Degrees in Speech Pathology
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Northwestern UniversityLocation
Evanston, IL
Tuition$54620
School Type PrivateBased in Evanston, Illinois, and running three campuses, Northwestern reaches 21,000 learners, including many graduate students. The school's speech language pathology program combines concept-based courses with immersive opportunities, giving students a well-rounded understanding of modern speech and language theories and practices.
The required coursework teaches learners to become educated decision-makers who can self-assess their own work. Northwestern requires 16 core courses and seven clinical registrations. The university uses a quarter system, and full-time students graduate in just seven quarters of study.
To provide learners with the most clinical immersion possible, Northwestern requires clinical courses during every quarter, including students' first quarter in the master's in speech pathology program. The clinicals address multiple areas of speech and language, and graduates end up in various roles.
- Graduation rate: 94%
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 36 units
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, a selection of specific coursework prerequisites
- Program Website
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Vanderbilt UniversityLocation
Nashville, TN
Tuition$47686
School Type PrivateFounded after receiving a gift from Cornelius Vanderbilt in 1873, Vanderbilt ranks among the world's top public research institutions. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, Vanderbilt provides students with high-quality educational programs and connections with the region's top industries.
Offered through the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, the master's in speech pathology requires 49-59 semester credits, including study during the summer session. Full-time students complete this program in 20-24 months, depending on previous experience.
Vanderbilt offers two speech-language pathology options: one for students with a background in communication service for the deaf, and one for learners new to the field. Both options allow for elective study and culminate with a clinical externship onsite in the Nashville area.
Learners can also select a specialty track in early identification and management of children with hearing loss, schooling, or in thesis, a track designed for students who plan on pursuing a research-based speech-language pathology career.
- Graduation rate: 93%
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 49-59 semester credits
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, GRE test scores
- Program Website
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Boston UniversityLocation
Boston, MA
Tuition$53572
School Type PrivateBU, which serves nearly 35,000 students, offers hundreds of programs for students of various backgrounds. Nearly half of BU's student body pursue a graduate degree. The university maintains a 10-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio with an average class size of just 27 learners.
BU's master of science in speech-language pathology, a two-year program created for students with a background in any field, ranks among the best speech pathology programs due to the university's prime location in Boston. The master's program also features some of the smallest class sizes of any program at BU, giving students plenty of one-on-one clinical supervision experience.
Outcomes for the master's in speech pathology rank among the best in the nation, as 100% of students in the past three years graduated, passed the Praxis, and secured employment. BU's program is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology.
- Graduation rate: 88%
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 65-70 credits
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Program Website
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New York UniversityLocation
New York, NY
Tuition$45426
School Type PrivateWhile based in New York City, NYU reaches across the globe with additional campuses in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai. With over 50,000 students and nearly $1 billion in annual research funding, NYU ranks among the nation's largest private institutions.
Accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, NYU's master's in communication sciences and disorders prepares learners to become licensed speech-language pathologists. The 48-credit program requires full-time study. Aside from required practicum, clinical, and core courses, learners can choose from multiple courses, including courses that satisfy different certification requirements. Degree-seekers can also take most courses online.
NYU's global presence allows speech pathology students to study abroad in Lund, Sweden, or Accra, Ghana. Learners can opt to complete a thesis with the degree, best for those interested in a research-based career.
- Graduation rate: 85%
- Program length: 2-4 years
- Credits: 48 credits
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, 3.0 GPA
- Program Website
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Case Western Reserve UniversityLocation
Cleveland, OH
Tuition$45204
School Type PrivateLocated in Cleveland, Ohio, CWRU primarily serves graduate and professional studies students. The school excels in connecting graduate learners with internship opportunities, with 100% of speech pathology students securing an internship each of the past 10 years.
The university's master of arts in speech-language pathology accepts students who did not earn an undergraduate degree in communication disorders. However, those without a related undergraduate degree interested in pursuing American Speech-Language-Hearing Association certification must complete additional undergraduate coursework. Aside from these potentially required courses, students complete 45 credits and must maintain a 3.0 GPA. CWRU also requires at least 375 supervised clinical practice hours completed in the Cleveland area.
Those interested in research-based careers can opt into a six-credit thesis. Those who do not complete a thesis must pass a written and oral exam to graduate.
- Graduation rate: 84%
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 45 credit hours
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, 3.0 GPA, GRE scores
- Program Website
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University of North Carolina at Chapel HillLocation
Chapel Hill, NC
Tuition$18848.5
School Type PublicA public research institution based in Chapel Hill, UNC-Chapel Hill's sustained academic excellence earned it recognition as a "public Ivy" institution. Best known for its science programs, UNC-Chapel Hill offers its master's in speech pathology through the School of Medicine.
The master of science in speech and hearing sciences comes in a clinical and non-clinical format, each leading to specific career outcomes. The clinical track requires 60 semester credits and prepares graduates for American Speech-Language-Hearing Association certification and North Carolina licensure. The non-clinical track benefits those interested in research or industry. International students who do not require specific certification also enroll in the non-clinical track.
Applicants must meet prerequisites before the program start date. An undergraduate degree in communication disorders or a related field satisfies these requirements. Students with a degree in an unrelated field must complete additional coursework before the program start date.
- Graduation rate: 91%
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 60 semester credits
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, 3.0 GPA
- Program Website
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George Washington UniversityLocation
Washington, DC
Tuition$30834
School Type PrivateBased in Washington, D.C., GW serves 26,000 learners with unique internship opportunities, an extensive alumni network, and plenty of research opportunities. These benefits, among others, help speech-language pathology graduates gain excellent experience and secure jobs.
The master's in speech-language pathology takes five full-time semesters of study to complete and includes one summer semester. During the program, learners rotate through GW's eight practicum sub-clinics and take two externships, exposing them to different speech-pathology practices and environments. Program graduates enjoy a 100% Praxis pass rate, and 98% of graduates secure a relevant position within six months of graduating.
GW uses a cohort system with roughly 30 students in core classes and 12-20 students in practicum sub-clinic courses. For students with an unrelated bachelor's degree, GW offers a 26-credit post-bachelor's program that, upon completion, guarantees students entry into the master's in speech-language pathology program.
- Graduation rate: 82%
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 42 credits
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, GRE scores
- Program Website
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University of Virginia-Main CampusLocation
Charlottesville, VA
Tuition$21424
School Type PublicFounded in 1819 by Thomas Jefferson, UVA ranks among the nation's best public universities. UVA offers a master's in communication sciences and disorders.
Unlike other institutions, UVA offers its master's in speech pathology as a master of education, ideal for those who want to begin a career in education. The university designed two separate tracks for students with and without a background in communication disorders. The two tracks take five and eight semesters, respectively, with the second track joining the first track after one year of study. Learners may complete an optional thesis.
The program's final semester consists entirely of a full-time internship. UVA connects learners with opportunities in Virginia and nearby states. At the end of the internship, students complete a comprehensive exam and deliver an oral presentation of their internship experience.
- Graduation rate: 95%
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 75-90 credits
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, GRE scores
- Program Website
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Northeastern UniversityLocation
Boston, MA
Tuition$24309
School Type PrivateA private school in Boston, Massachusetts, Northeastern reaches across the globe through its educational programs, corporate partnerships, and extensive alumni network. To help students find positions after graduating, Northeastern emphasizes experiential learning.
The school's speech pathology master's program features experiential learning and real-life practice, with learners completing multiple clinical experiences. The program also integrates technology with research. Coursework could include using software to aid in communication and alternative communication methods. Learners complete the 60-credit program in two years and can also complete an optional early-intervention certificate program.
Students choose between a thesis or non-thesis route. The non-thesis route requires a comprehensive exam at the end of the program. Learners must maintain a 3.0 GPA. Program graduates enjoy excellent outcomes, with 100% of graduates passing the Praxis and finding a speech-language pathology position.
- Graduation rate: 89%
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 60 credits
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, 3.35 GPA, GRE or MAT scores
- Program Website
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Purdue University-Main CampusLocation
West Lafayette, IN
Tuition$18609
School Type PublicKnown for its affordability and innovative approach to education, Purdue teaches roughly 40,000 students each year. Most students attend courses at the main campus in West Lafayette, Indiana, though many study at distance learning sites and online.
Purdue offers several speech-language pathology programs for different students, including a master's in speech-language pathology. The master's program meets the credentialing requirements set by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and prepares graduates to secure Indiana licensure. Nearly every program graduate secured a relevant position within one year of completing the master's degree.
Purdue also offers several doctoral degrees in speech-language pathology and allows learners to pursue a master's and doctoral degree concurrently. This innovative approach sees students complete all coursework at once, then begin doctoral-level research while earning clinical experience.
- Graduation rate: 82%
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 60 credits
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, 3.0 GPA, GRE scores
- Program Website
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University of Wisconsin-MadisonLocation
Madison, WI
Tuition$17391
School Type PublicFounded in 1848, UW is a regional leader in higher education. The over 40,000 students who attend UW join a global alumni network of over 450,000, helping graduates secure positions in Wisconsin and beyond.
UW's two-year speech-language pathology program, designed for individuals who plan on completing clinical work and becoming licensed, complies with American Speech-Language-Hearing Association certification standards. Program graduates can also become certified teachers in Wisconsin. Students who plan to pursue a Ph.D. can take the normal aspects of speech, language, and hearing track.
The main speech-language pathology track requires 40 credits and takes five semesters to complete. Students can opt to complete a thesis, best for those interested in a Ph.D. Among 2019-20 class graduates, 100% completed the program in five semesters or less, and 100% passed the Praxis exam.
- Graduation rate: 88%
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 40 credits
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, 3.0 GPA
- Program Website
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Marquette UniversityLocation
Milwaukee, WI
Tuition$20340
School Type PrivateA Jesuit university located in downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Marquette provides learners with a well-rounded liberal arts education, preparing them for nearly any career. The mid-sized school teaches over 3,300 graduate and professional students, helping them take the next step in their education and careers.
Offered through the Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology, Marquette's master's in speech-language pathology prepares learners for state licensure and certification in Wisconsin and Illinois. The 46-credit program takes full-time learners five semesters to complete. Learners spend the entire final semester gaining clinical experience and completing their practicum, satisfying requirements to become certified. Marquette also offers a specialization in bilingual English-Spanish, a specialization created for fluent Spanish speakers.
Program graduates enjoy high graduation rates and perfect Praxis exam pass rates. All graduates between 2016 and 2019 found positions within one year of finishing the master's degree.
- Graduation rate: 82%
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 46 credits
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, GRE scores
- Program Website
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University of ConnecticutLocation
Storrs, CT
Tuition$26156
School Type PublicA leader among public research universities, UConn offers some of the nation's best programs. The university hosts courses at five different campuses in the area, and students benefit from the proximity to major financial regions.
Available for full-time degree-seekers, the master's in speech-language pathology takes two years to complete. The program complies with Council for Clinical Certification requirements, covering statistics, communication disorders, swallowing, and contemporary professional issues. Learners earn 75 credits and complete at least 400 hours of supervised clinical practice. UConn requires students to complete a large portion of their clinical experience during a summer semester between their first and second year.
UConn requires applicants without a background in communication disorders to first complete a one-year pre-professional program. Once completed, students enter the master's in speech pathology program.
- Graduation rate: 84%
- Program Length: 2 to 2 years based on track
- Credits: 75 credits
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, GRE scores
- Program Website
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Loyola University MarylandLocation
Baltimore, MD
Tuition$17520
School Type PrivateLocated in Baltimore, Loyola follows the Jesuit tradition of education. The university enrolls nearly 5,500 students, many of whom live on campus while earning their degrees.
Accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation, Loyola's speech-language pathology program takes full-time students two years to complete. The cohort program groups learners together to keep them on track to graduate in no more than three years. During the program, students earn over 400 hours of clinical experience and begin completing clinical experience early on in their first year. Loyola arranges clinical sites in Baltimore and nearby Columbia, Maryland.
Over 98% of speech-language pathology students complete the program and pass the Praxis exam within three years. The past three graduating classes enjoyed a 100% job placement rate within one year of completing the program.
- Graduation rate: 83%
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: N/A
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Program Website
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University of FloridaLocation
Gainesville, FL
Tuition$19052.5
School Type PublicAs one of the nation's largest public universities, UF creates a significant impact on the economy in Gainesville and the region. Graduates regularly find careers and start businesses in Florida and nearby states, benefitting from UF's high-quality education and extensive network.
While UF's master's in speech-language pathology program prepares students for a career and certification in Florida, many learners end up studying and working elsewhere. After completing early clinical experience at one of UF's many departments or at local sites, learners begin a clinical externship to become licensure eligible. Some students choose to study in Gainesville, though many extend beyond Florida into cities like Atlanta, Orlando, Miami, New York, and San Diego.
Completing the master's degree satisfies Florida's requirements for becoming a licensed speech-language pathologist, though students interested in audiology must continue their education.
- Graduation rate: 88%
- Estimated years of completion: 2 years
- Credits: 55 credits
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, 3.0 GPA GRE scores
- Program Website
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Syracuse UniversityLocation
Syracuse, NY
Tuition$38708
School Type PrivateFounded in 1870, Syracuse is a private research university based in Syracuse, New York, that serves nearly 22,000 students. The university reports that 80% of students receive some form of financial aid and 87% find positions within one year of graduating. Speech-language pathology students experience even better outcomes.
Syracuse's master of science in speech-language pathology takes five semesters to complete and satisfies New York's requirements for licensure and certification as a teacher of students with speech-language disabilities. Learners earn 46-53 credits in courses like dysphagia, stuttering, and aural rehabilitation. They complete the program with a capstone project.
Applicants without a background in communication sciences and disorders must complete up to seven additional courses to graduate. Speech-language pathology students complete clinicals at sites in New York and nearby locations including Rhode Island, New Jersey, and Canada.
- Graduation rate: 83%
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 46-53 credits
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, ASHA prerequisites
- Program Website
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University at BuffaloLocation
Buffalo, NY
Tuition$16870
School Type PublicUB, the flagship institution and largest part of the 64-campus State University of New York system, prepares students for careers around the globe. The university organizes over 1,000 study-abroad programs across the world and partners with 96 other universities in various fields.
Created for those with a bachelor's degree in speech and hearing sciences, UB's master of arts in communicative disorders and science takes just under two years to complete. The program covers multiple specializations, including articulation, aural rehabilitation, and pervasive developmental disorders. After learning in labs in Buffalo during their first year, students begin externships during the second year to gain clinical hours. UB connects students with local externships, and most learners complete two externships by graduation.
Some students also begin research apprenticeships, though availability varies. To graduate, learners must pass the Praxis exam and complete either a thesis or research project.
- Graduation rate: 75%
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 40 credits
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, GRE scores
- Program Website
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University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh CampusLocation
Pittsburgh, PA
Tuition$30791
School Type PublicHome to over 33,700 students, Pitt serves as a regional leader in public education. Despite its large size, Pitt offers a low 14-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, great for learners looking for one-on-one time with their professors.
Available as both a master of arts and master of science, the speech-language pathology program requires 60 credits split between on-campus courses and clinical experience. Both options require 10 credits of clinical experience and either a written and oral comprehensive exam or a thesis. During clinicals, learners can also specialize in either dysphagia or voice, both of which lead to specific career outcomes.
Pitt requires applicants to hold a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA, though most applicants hold a 3.5 GPA or higher. Applicants with a bachelor's in communication and speech disorders meet all prerequisite requirements. Pitt does not require GRE scores.
- Graduation rate: 83%
- Estimated years of completion: 2 years
- Credits: 60 credits
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, 3.0 GPA
- Program Website
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University of Maryland-College ParkLocation
College Park, MD
Tuition$20385
School Type PublicLocated in College Park, UMD teaches more than 41,000 students who join an alumni network of over 388,000. Learners benefit from the university's prime location near Baltimore, and the school emphasizes the importance of social entrepreneurship.
UMD's master's in speech-language pathology, offered through the Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences, requires applicants to first complete prerequisites in speech sciences and communications sciences and disorders. Learners usually graduate in two years, though UMD requires students to complete a summer and winter semester. Upon graduating, students prepare to become licensed in Maryland and other states, and then begin careers as professional speech-language pathologists.
Applicants must submit a statement of purpose, previous transcripts, three recommendation letters, a professional resume, and GRE scores. Learners who require financial assistance can secure a graduate assistantship or fellowship, both offered by UMD.
- Graduation rate: 87%
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 35 credits
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, GRE scores
- Program Website
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Texas Christian UniversityLocation
Fort Worth, TX
Tuition$29388
School Type PrivateA Fort Worth-based private school, TCU offers graduate students over 100 areas of study. The diverse school also sees over one-third of students study abroad, making it an excellent choice for those interested in travel.
The Davies School of Communication Sciences & Disorders offers an MS in speech-language pathology that prepares students for positions in healthcare and education. Learners cover basic materials required to become licensed in Texas and other states, though expert faculty also allows for specialized learning opportunities. Students complete clinicals in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, sometimes serving unique populations.
Applicants need a bachelor's degree and 27 hours of speech-language pathology credits. Learners must study full time and complete all courses on site in Fort Worth. The intensive program leads to incredible outcomes, as 100% of graduates pass the Praxis on their first try.
- Graduation rate: 83%
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 43 credits
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, 3.0 GPA, GRE scores
- Program Website
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Duquesne UniversityLocation
Pittsburgh, PA
Tuition$23112
School Type PrivateA top-ranked Catholic university located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Duquesne features over 140 years of education experience. Most classes at Duquesne consist of fewer than 20 students, and learners enjoy a 14-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio.
Duquesne's two-year speech-language pathology master's prepares students to become licensed speech-language pathologists, and some learners choose to earn a Pennsylvania teaching certification. Potential courses include phonetics, speech sciences, and clinical procedures. Learners who graduate in two years must take courses during the summer semester between the two academic years. The program is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology.
Applicants who did not complete at least 25 hours of speech-language pathology courses must complete an additional year of prerequisite courses. Applicants need a 3.0 GPA on their bachelor's degree.
- Graduation rate: 81%
- Program length: 5 years
- Credits: 72 credits
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor's degree, 3.0 GPA
- Program Website
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Michigan State UniversityLocation
East Lansing, MI
Tuition$26880
School Type PublicOne of the nation's top public research institutions, MSU offers some of the best graduate programs. As a large university with numerous ties to local organizations, MSU helps connect master's in speech-language pathology students with clinical roles at over 100 local sites.
The communicative sciences and disorders program comes with two tracks, both of which require 51 credits. The first track culminates with a thesis and independent study while the second track includes two specialized courses and a comprehensive final exam. Full-time students complete the program in just two years.
MSU only accepts applicants who earned a bachelor's degree in communicative disorders with a 3.0 GPA. Those with different backgrounds must complete a year of prerequisite courses. Applicants also submit a statement of purpose and three recommendation letters.
- Graduation rate: 81%
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 51 credits
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, 3.0 GPA
- Program Website
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Molloy CollegeLocation
Rockville Centre, NY
Tuition$21850
School Type PrivateMolloy, a small private college located on Long Island near Manhattan, offers a low tuition rate, especially when compared to other institutions in the New York City area. The college teaches roughly 5,000 students, many of whom pursue a graduate degree.
Molloy's graduate speech-language pathology program blends theory and real-world practice, preparing graduates for many careers. The program covers voice disorders, diagnosis in communication disorders, and neurological bases of communication. Aspiring educators can register for the teacher of students with speech and language disabilities specialization. Molloy also offers a bilingual extension certificate.
Applicants must submit three recommendation letters, a professional goals statement, transcripts, and GRE scores. After submitting an application, learners then complete a personal interview. Those who do not meet prerequisite course requirements must complete 39 undergraduate credits before joining the master's program.
- Graduation rate: 74%
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 56 credits
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, GRE scores
- Program Website
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University of DelawareLocation
Newark, DE
Tuition$33678
School Type PublicAs one of the oldest institutions of higher education, UD counts numerous scientists, artists, and politicians among its alumni. The college has campuses in Dover, Wilmington, Georgetown, Newark, and Lewes, and many students study abroad.
Learners interested in the master's in speech-language pathology complete 60 credits over 18 months. UD requires that students enroll full time and complete courses during a summer and winter session. Learners can pursue an optional thesis for the program, though this route requires an additional semester of study. As part of the curriculum, students complete clinical experience onsite at locations around Delaware.
Applicants without relevant undergraduate experience must complete prerequisite coursework. After graduating, students qualify to earn American Speech-Language-Hearing Association certification. UD requires GRE scores, two personal essays, and three recommendation letters.
- Graduation rate: 81%
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 60 credits
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, GRE scores, ASHA prerequisites
- Program Website
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University of TulsaLocation
Tulsa, OK
Tuition$22720
School Type PrivateFounded in 1894, TU serves nearly 4,400 students, with just over 1,100 pursuing a graduate degree. The private university features a low student-to-faculty ratio of 11-to-1 and average class sizes of just 20 students. Learners enrolled in the graduate communication sciences and disorders program enjoy even smaller class sizes.
Only available full time, the master's in speech-language pathology takes two years to complete and prepares students for licensure in Oklahoma. Graduates also qualify to apply for doctoral speech-language programs, find leadership positions, or become certified to work for public schools. The program consists of 40 credits, six of which come from clinical experience completed in the Tulsa area.
The most recent speech-language pathology graduating class enjoyed a perfect Praxis exam pass rate, and every graduate secured a relevant position within one year of graduating.
- Graduation rate: 72%
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 40 credits
- Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, 3.0 GPA, GRE scores
- Program Website
Speech pathologists help individuals cope with speech and swallowing challenges. They evaluate clients and come up with treatment plans. Often, these plans include helping clients practice making sounds, improve sentence structures, and strengthen and relax their throat muscles. Sometimes, speech pathologists work with individuals who were born with a disability that makes talking difficult, like a cleft palate. In other cases, they work with individuals who develop a disorder or injury that impacts speech and swallowing later in life, like adults recovering from a stroke.
Master’s in Speech Language Pathology Program Overview
It is a speech-language pathologist's job to work with children and adults to prevent, assess, diagnose and treat disorders that affect communication or swallowing. When entering into a master's in speech pathology program, you can expect to take courses that focus on speech development, swallowing disorders, age-specific speech disorders and alternative communication methods.
Depending on the program, you can enroll as a part-time or full-time student and complete the program at your own pace. In addition to the required courses, supervised clinical training is expected as well as the passing on an exam for your license, depending on the state.
Admissions Requirements for a Master’s in Speech Pathology
As you search for the perfect master's program, it is important to take a look at the admissions requirements for each program you are considering. You will likely find that the admissions requirements vary from state to state and program to program. Depending on the master's program, a specific undergraduate degree is not necessary; however, getting into a master's program may require certain coursework, a minimum GPA, letters of recommendation, GRE/LSAT/ETC scores and more.
What Does a Career in Speech Pathology Look Like
- Rewarding Work
- A degree in speech pathology positions individuals to make a positive difference in other's lives. Speech pathologists get to use the information they learn to help individuals cope with challenges that impact their daily lives.
- Higher Earning Potential
While individuals with a bachelor's degree in speech pathology can often work as medical assistants in this field, they miss out on the higher earning potential that graduates with a master's degree enjoy. According to the BLS, speech pathologists earn a median salary of $79,120 per year, while medical assistants earn $34,800 per year.
- Option to Work as a Traveling Speech Pathologist
- Graduates with a master's in speech pathology qualify for jobs as traveling speech pathologists. These professionals get to see different parts of the country by switching employment locations about every three months.
- Job Security
Since the BLS projects jobs for speech pathologists to grow 25% between 2019 and 2029, these professionals enjoy above-average job security.
- Work-Life Balance
- Speech pathologists typically only work business hours, unlike many other professionals in the medical field. Some speech pathologists who work for school districts even benefit from paid summers off.
Courses in a Speech Pathology Master's Program
Speech pathology master's programs typically require about 36-50 semester credits and take two years of full-time study to complete. Learners gain skills in areas like:
- Interpersonal communication
- Record keeping
- And therapeutic best practices.
Some master's in speech pathology programs require a capstone and clinical rotations in addition to coursework.
Below, we outline five common speech pathology courses. Keep in mind that not every program offers these exact courses. However, most programs include a variation of the following classes.
Hearing Disorders
In this course, learners study various hearing disorders that impact speech. Students also learn about peripheral and central disorders that affect balance. This class requires auditory assessments during which students must listen to recordings and diagnose possible hearing disorders present. Many programs offer this course entirely online, but some may require an in-person clinical component.
Language Development and Assessment
In a language development and assessment course, students learn about language development stages in adolescents and how to identify language development disorders. This class covers evidence-based theories about how individuals develop the ability to speak. Learners also discover how to apply these theories to everyday practice. Students typically take this course during their first semester because it offers important foundational material.
Anatomy Hearing and Speech Systems
This course examines the human body and its systems that control hearing and speech. Anatomical structures that this course discusses include the articulatory and resonatory systems, inner and outer ear, and throat. This class also covers the functions of the central and peripheral nervous systems. Students learn how to identify potential disorders of these systems based on present symptoms. Exams in this course often require students to identify names of anatomical structures based on diagrams.
Cultural and Linguistic Diversity
Speech pathologists typically work with clients from varying backgrounds. This course covers best communication practices for communicating with diverse audiences. Learners also discover how to help individuals currently learning English as a second language with pronunciation. Additionally, this class examines how diversity impacts a speech pathologist's work in the public school system.
Diagnosing Disorders
In this class, students learn how to identify speaking, hearing, and swallowing disorders based on sets of accepted criteria. Learners discover how to use common diagnostic equipment and perform diagnostic tests. Course discussions center around case studies that present common systems. Upon completion, learners can identify phonetic sounds that correlate with certain disorders. This class also discusses the common treatment plans for each disorder.
Career and Salary Outlook for Speech Pathology Majors
Graduates with a master's in speech pathology can pursue a variety of careers. In addition to working as speech pathologists, graduates can work as occupational therapists, recreational therapists, special education teachers, and audiologists.
Below, we highlight these four additional careers. Keep in mind that job availability and pay can vary based on factors like geographical location and years of experience. For example, employers in rural towns in the Midwest tend to pay less than employers in areas with higher costs of living.
Occupational Therapist
Occupational therapists assist patients recovering from injuries and illnesses and individuals with disabilities. They help patients perform everyday tasks, such as eating, getting dressed, and brushing teeth. According to the BLS, occupational therapists make a median income of $84,950 per year and enjoy a projected job growth rate of 16% between 2019 and 2029.
Recreational Therapist
These therapists help patients cope with anxiety, stress, disabilities, and injuries through recreational activities. Common therapeutic activities include assisting individuals with community outings and enjoyable exercises. The BLS reports that these professionals earn a median pay of $48,220 per year and projects jobs for recreational therapists to grow 8% between 2019 and 2029.
Special Education Teacher
Special education teachers may oversee entire classrooms or work one-on-one with students, helping learners with disabilities advance their education. According to the BLS, special education teachers earn a median income of $61,030 per year. The BLS projects jobs for these professionals to grow 3% between 2019-2029.
Audiologist
These professionals diagnose and treat hearing problems. Audiologists often work in clinics and hospitals, but some work in school settings. The BLS reports that audiologists make a median income of $77,600 per year and projects jobs for these professionals to grow 13% between 2019 and 2029.
Career | Median Annual Salary | Projected Growth Rate (2019-2029) |
---|---|---|
Occupational Therapist | $84,950 | 16% |
Recreational Therapist | $48,220 | 8% |
Special Education Teacher | $61,030 | 3% |
Audiologist | $77,600 | 13% |
Source: BLS
In addition to the major careers within speech pathology, the American Speech -Language Hearing Association (ASHA) also recognizes three areas of specialization:
- Child language disorders: A speech pathologist who is certified in child language disorders works with patients under the age of 21 who require assistance with the use of language, as well as the content, comprehension and production of the form of language.
- Fluency disorders: A speech pathologist who is certified in fluency works with patients with fluency disorders, such as stuttering and cluttering.
- Swallowing disorders: A speech pathologist who is certified in swallowing disorders works with patients who have difficulty or the inability to swallow, also known as dysphagia.
Bilingual speech therapy programs
A bilingual speech pathologist provides speech therapy services to patients whose native language is not English. Many schools offer this program as a certification or extension that will complement your masters in speech-language pathology and provide you with the training necessary to become a bilingual speech-language pathologist.
School Name | Instruction method | Type of degree | Credit requirement |
---|---|---|---|
New York University | In-person | Certification | 7 credits (in addition to graduate coursework) |
Columbia University | Online/In-person | Certification | 6 credits (in addition to graduate coursework) |
The University of Arizona | In-person | Certification | 9 credits (in addition to graduate coursework) |
Marquette University | In-person | Master's | 46 credits |
Texas Christian University | In-person | Master's | 46 credits |
University of Maryland- College Park | In-person | Certification | 12 credits (in addition to graduate coursework) |
Molloy College | In-person | Certification | 21 credits (in addition to graduate coursework) |
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Accreditations for Masters Programs in Speech Pathology
Students considering master's in speech pathology programs should research the accreditation status of prospective schools. Accreditation indicates that a school meets high academic standards. The U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation oversee accrediting agencies. Schools may receive regional or national accreditation, with regional accreditation generally considered the more prestigious of the two.
Accreditation benefits students in several ways. For instance, only students at accredited schools qualify for federal financial aid, and many schools only accept degrees and transfer credits from accredited institutions.
Programs within a school can also earn accreditation. The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology is one of the top accrediting agencies for speech pathology programs. Prospective students can verify a program or school's accreditation status through the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs.
Why Earn Your Master’s in Speech Language Pathology Online?
- Maximize earnings
- When you further your education, you can increase your earnings. Earning your master's degree can get you higher pay from your current employer or allow you to apply for a higher paying job with a different company.
- Increase employment opportunities
- Once you secure your master's degree in speech-language pathology, you will stand out to employers. If there is someone with less of an education and fewer skills than you, employers will see you as the likely choice because of what you bring to the table.
- Job Security
- Securing a master’s in speech-language pathology can make you an asset at your company because of the skills and training you will obtain during the program. If you shine in your role, your employer will be more likely to keep you because of those skills and abilities.
- Secure a new position
- A master's degree offers you the skills and training necessary to take on a new role with more responsibility. Rather than stay in an entry-level position with no opportunity for advancement, you can get a master's degree and quickly advance to a more rewarding position.
How to Become a Speech Pathologist
1. Complete a master's in speech pathology
To become a speech pathologist, professionals need a master's degree. Most master's programs in speech pathology accept students with a bachelor's degree in any field from a regionally accredited school. However, applicants who possess unrelated bachelor's degrees typically must take prerequisite courses before earning acceptance into the major.
While earning a master's degree, individuals can enhance their resumes by pursuing internships and job shadowing opportunities. In some cases, an internship can lead to a full-time job after graduation.
2. Complete a clinical practicum
Every high-quality speech pathology program requires students to complete a supervised clinical experience where they work closely with a speech pathologist to gain experience in this field.
3. Pass the Praxis Exam in Speech-Language Pathology
Toward the end of a master’s degree in speech pathology program, students must pass the Praxis exam before pursuing a clinical fellowship.
4. Apply for a Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP)
After graduating from an accredited speech pathology program, students may apply for a CCC-SLP. To qualify for this certification, the applicant must meet all of the requirements determined by the American Speech-Language-hearing Association.
5. Complete clinical fellowship
Upon graduation, individuals are required to complete a clinical fellowship. The length of the program will depend if the individual is employed full-time (9 months) or part-time (12 months. Completing a clinical fellowship is a requirement by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) to become a fully certified speech pathologist.
Certifications and Licensure for Speech Pathology Majors
Many speech pathologists pursue certifications and licenses to enhance their expertise and earning potential. Although most speech pathologist positions do not require certification, earning certification makes candidates more competitive in the job market. Below, we outline three licenses and certifications for speech pathologists.
This organization offers a certification exclusively for speech pathologists. To apply, individuals must submit their Praxis exam scores, official graduate transcripts, and a speech-language pathology clinical fellowship report and rating form. They must also pay a $256-$511 fee.">
Individuals can pursue this certification entirely online or in person. The online program follows a self-paced format, and the in-person option includes hands-on practice with an instructor. Through this certification, individuals learn how to apply evidence-based practices to support individuals with Parkinson's Disease and other neurological disorders.
This certification teaches speech pathologists how to take a tactile-kinesthetic approach in their work. Candidates learn how to use touch to help clients create the correct mouth shapes and movements to properly articulate. This type of therapy aims to teach patients how to shape words without support in the future.
Scholarships can help students reduce the cost of a master's in speech pathology. Students can increase their chances of earning a scholarship by applying for scholarships reserved exclusively for speech pathology students, like the ones listed below.
Advanced Travel Therapy Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Graduate students pursuing a degree in physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech-language pathology may apply for this scholarship. Applicants must submit a resume. The awarding organization selects two scholarship winners each year.
Amount: $5,000
American Speech-Language-Hearing Foundation Graduate Student Scholarship
Who Can Apply: The American Speech-Language-Hearing Foundation awards this scholarship to up to 15 graduate students per year. This organization also offers scholarships exclusively for international and minority graduate students. To qualify, individuals must submit transcripts and recommendation letters. Recipients must maintain full-time enrollment.
Amount: $5,000
Educational Based Services Healthcare Scholarship Program
Who Can Apply: This organization awards a scholarship of up to $7,500 to an individual who intends to practice within the pediatrics field. To qualify, applicants must be entering their clinical fellowship and remain in good standing in the program.
Amount: $7,500
Frederick J. Krause Scholarship on Health and Disabilities
Who Can Apply: The American Association on Health and Disability awards scholarships to individuals pursuing a degree related to helping those with disabilities, like speech-language pathology. Recipients must maintain full-time enrollment during their studies. Applicants must possess a disability defined by the American with Disabilities Act.
Amount: Up to $1,000
National Black Association for Speech-Language and Hearing Student Research Award
Who Can Apply: Undergraduate students enrolled in a graduate speech-language pathology, audiology, or speech-language-hearing sciences program may apply for this scholarship. Applicants must also maintain membership to the National Black Association for Speech-Language and Hearing. To apply, students must submit a research paper.
Amount: $1,000
Frequently Asked Questions About Master’s Degrees in Speech Pathology
How many years does it take to become a speech pathologist?
Speech pathologists are required to complete an undergraduate and master's degree, so it can take between 4 to 7 years to become a speech pathologist, depending on the length of the master's program.
Do SLPs make more than nurses?
According to the BLS, speech-language pathologists earn more than registered nurses. Registered nurses earn a median pay of $73,300 per year.
What college major is speech pathology?
A specific undergraduate major is not required for those who want to enroll in a speech pathology master's degree program. Although pre-requisite courses may need to be completed before applying.
What are the requirements to become a speech pathologist?
Becoming a speech pathologist is not difficult; however, it does require 4 to 7 years of schooling as well as hands-on training.
How Covid Affected Speech Pathology
Many patients who fought for their lives after contracting COVID-19 have now been left with the work of restoring their speech and communication. Speech pathologists have stepped in to assist patients who are recovering from serious cases. As a result of the damage caused by mechanical ventilation, patients have been left with injured vocal cords. In addition to helping patients rehabilitate the ability to swallow and communicate, speech pathologists also work with those experiencing difficulties with cognition, including memory, orientation and delirium.
Our Methodology, Explained
Metric | Data Used | Percentage |
Academic Quality | Full-time faculty percentage, student-to-faculty ratio, student retention and graduation rates | 30% |
Affordability | Tuition rates, median student debt, and financial aid | 10% |
Reputation | Admission and enrollment rates | 30% |
Program Offerings | Number of program options | 20% |
Online Enrollment Score | Portion of learners taking at least one online course | 10% |
Kristina Byas
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Kristina Byas is a contributing writer who covers higher education, online graduate programs, college planning, and more for Grad School Hub. Her writing has also appeared in The Simple Dollar, Reviews.com, and LendingTree.
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