Best Speech Pathology Graduate Programs

The University Of Tennessee Health Science Center

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Knoxville, Tennessee

Become a qualified provider of speech therapy with the Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. Students spend five semesters adding to their skills with academic coursework and clinical training. The final semester is spent entirely in a full-time clinical setting. The program concludes with either a comprehensive examination or thesis. Students can complete clinical hours in both on-campus and off-campus settings, including local hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, schools, and more. Electives are available that allow students to customize their education with focuses on alternative communication, literacy, autism, aphasia, and various disorders related to voice, motor speech, and swallowing. Students with bachelor’s degrees in areas other than communication science and disorders are invited to apply but will need to complete two additional semesters of prerequisite coursework. The program at the University of Tennessee is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,375 / $28,810

Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology

Memphis, Tennessee

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,054 / $17,838

Accreditation For Master’s In Speech Pathology Programs

Students planning to earn a graduate degree in speech-language pathology will want to enroll in an online program that has been accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology. The CAA is part of the ASHA , which is the leading professional organization for speech-language pathologists and audiologists. To become accredited, an online speech-language pathology program must undergo a comprehensive analysis of its curriculum, learning outcomes, and faculty. All aspects of the program must meet national standards for academic rigor and quality.

A degree from a CAA-accredited SLP program is a requirement for licensure in most states, and it assures students they’re enrolled in a credible, quality higher education program. For a list of accredited online programs, students can visit the Council for Higher Education Accreditation or the U.S. Department of Education.

University Of North Texas

Master of Science Degree Program in Speech-Language Pathology

Denton, Texas

Get the hands-on training required to become an expert in speech-language therapy with the Master of Science Degree Program in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of North Texas. The program admits new students in the fall semester only, and students can expect to earn their degrees in five semesters as long as prerequisites are satisfied prior to admission. Students will gain academic experience through coursework, and the program’s clinical practicum qualifies graduates for a Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Students will also qualify for Texas state licensure in speech-language pathology. Students without a bachelor’s degree in communication science are invited to apply, however, some prerequisite courses must be completed prior to beginning the program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,450 / $12,920

Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology

Mount Pleasant, Michigan

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,354 / $18,964

Master’s of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Manhattan, Kansas

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,061 / $22,709

Master of Arts Speech Pathology

Kalamazoo, Michigan

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,638 / $29,569

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University Of Texas Austin

The Moody College of Communication at the University of Texas at Austin houses labs and facilities for the study and treatment of disorders like stuttering and aphasia.

Degrees offered by its faculty include an AuD in audiology and an MSSLHS, a Master of Science in Speech, Language, and Hearing Services.

The department grounds its programs in experiential and interdisciplinary learning. Graduates must demonstrate proficiency in core competency areas related to certification and licensure electives offer students the opportunity to add specialty areas of focus to their degrees.

The department offers bilingual instruction in English and Spanish, and it features bilingualism as one available specialty area. Students may earn a bilingual/multicultural certificate as part of their coursework.

Candidates may apply to the program at UT Austin through the ApplyTexas website. The admissions process includes an interview, along with application, transcripts, GRE scores, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.

Brooklyn College Of The City University Of New York

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Brooklyn, New York

Learn the skills to thrive as a speech therapist with the Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from City University of New York Brooklyn College. The program prepares students to apply for New York State licensure and American Speech-Language-Hearing Association certification. Students focus on communication sciences and therapeutic methods to address speech and language issues in patients of all age. The program includes 59 to 71 credits and requires students to complete 400 hours of clinical practicum. A comprehensive examination is also required to graduate. Applicants will need to complete five prerequisite courses before applying and sit for a pre-admission interview. The college accepts applications for the fall and spring semesters only. The program at Brooklyn College is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,770 / $19,920

Master’s Degree in Communication Disorders

Provo, Utah

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,080

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Online Speech Pathology Degrees

There are a number of speech pathology degrees to choose from when considering a future in speech pathology and audiology. Students can select from a variety of speech pathology programs such as bachelor degrees up through graduate programs from accredited colleges and universities. A brief overview of each type of the degree programs are listed below to help you better understand the higher education options available to select for your future.

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.

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What Factors Contribute To A Strong Application To A Masters Degree Program

Every graduate program has its own set of criteria for accepting students, but most programs consider the application packets. Accredited colleges and universities consider these aspects in their entirety:

• Academic performance in a bachelors degree or masters degree program previously completed
• Clinical experience
• Problem-solving and critical thinking skills
• Leadership qualities
• Interpersonal communication skills

Are There Less Competitive Speech Pathology Graduate Programs

Not all speech pathology programs are the same. When deciding between more and less competitive SLP graduate programs, there are a number of factors to keep in mind. Some SLP programs receive more applicants than others, which could affect your chances of being accepted. Learning about the basic admission requirements for each program youre applying to can inform the steps you take to make your application stand out.

You must complete a bachelors degree program before applying to a masters program. ASHA reports that although a specific degree isnt required, individuals interested in becoming speech-language pathologists often obtain a bachelors degree in communication sciences and disorders. If you choose a different major, you may have to complete prerequisite courses.

Some traditional and online SLP programs require a GRE score. Studying independently or through a structured program may help increase your likelihood of receiving a strong score.

While also an ASHA requirement for obtaining optional certification in the field, shadowing an SLPor simply volunteering in the fieldcould be useful to aspiring SLPs as they prepare to apply to the program of their choice. Specifically, experience allows you to gain relevant knowledge and skills before officially starting your program, potentially making your application stand out from others.

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Find The Best Speech Pathology Schools For You

With hundreds of accredited speech pathology masters programs available across the country, figuring out which is right for you may be a challenge. You want to make sure a program meets your standards. Is it competitive? Will it adequately prepare you for your future career? Is it full time or part time? Are classes held online or in person? Will you be able to fit other obligations into your schedule?

Here, well explore the best speech pathology schools around the country to help you narrow down which programs would be the best fit for you. This page is for informational use only. Please contact each university for the most up-to-date information. Program data was collected from ASHA EdFind, a query tool on the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association website.

This page was last updated in January 2022.

• How to Choose the Best SLP Programs for You
• Are There Less Competitive Speech Pathology Graduate Programs?
• Speech Pathology Masters Programs, No GRE Required
• Speech-Language Pathology Schools by State
• Distance Learning and Part-Time Speech Pathology Masters Programs
• Speech Pathology Programs for Prospective Bilingual Speech Pathologists
• Masters in Speech Pathology FAQ

University Of Illinois At Urbana

Master of Arts in Clinical & Nonclinical Speech-Language Pathology

Champaign, Illinois

The Master of Arts in Clinica & Nonclinical Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers students both certified and non-certified pathways into the field of communication disorders. The clinical option qualifies students for clinical certification from the American Speech-Language-Hearing-Association and the Illinois state certification to practice speech-language pathology in public schools. Clinical students complete 60 graduate credit hours in phonetics, hearing science, speech science, audiology, stuttering, motor speed disorders, and more. With advisor approval, students can customize their degree plan with electives from within and outside of the department. Clinical students also complete a minimum of 400 clock hours of clinical practicum. Non-clinical students can earn a Master of Arts degree but will not be eligible for certification. The non-clinical degree path consists of 40 graduate credit hours and an optional thesis.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,068 / $28,221

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

West Lafayette, Indiana

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,208 / $28,010

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Madison, Wisconsin

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,728 / $24,054

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Admissions Requirements For A Masters In Speech Pathology

As you search for the perfect masters 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 masters program, a specific undergraduate degree is not necessary however, getting into a masters program may require certain coursework, a minimum GPA, letters of recommendation, GRE/LSAT/ETC scores and more.

University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Students can launch careers as speech-language pathologists or pursue further graduate study with the Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The program offers both clinical and non-clinical tracks, allowing students to follow a degree plan that matches their career and educational goals. Clinical students earn 60 semester hours through a comprehensive curriculum that covers ten core courses plus electives. While a thesis is not required, students have opportunities to join faculty research projects. The clinical track leads to certification by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and licensure in North Carolina. The non-clinical track does not lead to certification and is appropriate for students interested in careers in research or industry. Bilingual students may also add the university’s Certificate in Latin American Studies to their degree plan. The program holds accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation for Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,243 / $27,454

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Speech Pathology Licensing And Certification

While professionals with a bachelor’s in speech pathology do not have access to postgraduate credentials in their field, it can still help to understand the differences between certificates, certifications, and licenses. Generally, schools offer certificate training programs to students, and governing organizations offer industry certifications to qualified professionals. Governments offer licenses to professionals who qualify for practice.

In the speech pathology field, professionals need a master’s degree and state licensure or registration to practice. Master’s graduates can also pursue a certificate of clinical competence.

Best Masters Speech Therapy

A masters degree in speech therapy is your last step before becoming a licensed speech-language pathologist.

This is what youve been waiting for, right?

You graduated with a bachelors. Now all you need before becoming a speech-language pathologist is your masters degree. Then, the world is your oyster. You can work with struggling patients and help the disabled find a way to speak again.

To get your degree, choose one of the 30 Best Masters in Speech Therapy programs. A career in speech language pathology could be within your grasp!

The rapid growth of the speech-language pathology and speech development profession illustrates how much weve neglected people with communication disorders.

Imagine how hard life was for people with a developmental challenge 100 years ago. They knew they had an issue, but it didnt have a name or a solution. So they were left in agony.

These days, people who have communication disorders can at least find a name for their disorder. And in most cases, speech therapists can treat communication disorders completely, or at least improve long-term outcomes.

Speech therapy is one of the quickest-growing fields in the world, and its as fruitful as it is lucrative.

A speech language pathology degree is the way to take part in this growing field!

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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.

What Classes Can I Expect In A Speech Therapy Masters Program

While working towards a speech therapy masters program, speech pathology students will take a variety of upper level courses like the following:

• Speech-Languages Screening of Children
• Language, Cognition, and the Brain
• Knowledge & Skills in Clinical Science

In addition to coursework, the best masters in speech pathology therapy includes hands-on learning through internships and externships.

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Top Three Benefits Of A Speech Pathology Degree

According to the BLS, speech pathologists need a master’s degree and state licensure to practice in the field. While a bachelor’s in speech pathology can lead to various healthcare careers after graduation, the training primarily lays the groundwork for the required advanced training and professional practice.

Speech pathologists work in many environments and healthcare settings. Examples include physician’s offices, hospitals, residential care facilities, and schools.

According to the BLS, the median annual salary for speech pathologists was $79,060 in May 2021. This is higher than the median annual salaries for healthcare practitioners and technical occupations during that same period.

Masters In Communication Sciences And Disorders

NYU prides itself on its 100% Praxis pass rate for its graduates of the master of science in communication sciences and disorders degree program. The ASHA-accredited online program has an evidence-based curriculum that emphasizes person-centered care. Even its foundation courses, required before a graduate-level study, are also offered online for working professionals convenience. The program itself prepares its students in the successful pursuit of their speech pathologist license and offers students the choice between part-time and full-time study plans.

Aside from its New York City campus, NYU also maintains campuses in Shanghai and Abu Dhabi so international students can avail themselves of its excellent program. Students also can study abroad in places like Ghana, Accra, and Sweden and choose the thesis route, a surefire way to establish a research-based career. NYU is also notable for its research opportunities, thanks to its nearly $1 billion annual funding.

Tuition and Financial Assistance:

Every semester, the educational costs for each student are assessed based on the number of credits a student decides to enroll in per term. Thus, its expected to notice a moderate tuition increase every academic year. NYUs board of trustees also has the right to change or alter a programs cost of attendance without notice.

Campus Location: New York City, New York

Accreditation: CAA

Graduation Requirements:

Did you know?

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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.

Master Of Communication Sciences And Disorders

The University of Floridas Master of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders program is notable for its mission of empowering students to become speech pathologists with a holistic perspective. Graduates are known for their professionalism, compassion, and competence, as evidenced by their focus on preserving and promoting their patients general well-being through effective therapies. The curriculum combines comprehensive academic coursework and hands-on clinical education, which are underlined by evidence-based best practices.

The supervised clinical courses are made in various settings, such as in hospitals, schools, and nursing and residential care facilities. Students also benefit from externships during their final semester, usually in their preferred setting externships are unpaid yet full-time job experiences with the opportunity to be hired afterward. But for students who want to skip an externship, theres a thesis track equivalent to six credits.

Tuition and Financial Assistance:

The latest cost of attendance graduate programs is $12,740. This figure is only for graduate students enrolling UF for the first time. For continuing students, tuition/fees are relatively lower. Out-of-state graduate students should also add $17,394 to projected tuition/fees.

Campus Location: Gainesville, Florida

Accreditation: CAA

Graduation Requirements:

Did you know?

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