Want to build a rewarding career with a master’s in speech-language pathology? The career prospects look amazing. The job market for speech-language pathologists will grow by 19% between 2022 and 2032, which is substantially faster than most other careers.

The field has become increasingly competitive with 117,056 professionals working throughout the United States. New graduates can expect about 13,200 job openings each year. A 2023 survey revealed that healthcare and school settings had more positions available than qualified candidates. Students who earn a master of science in speech language pathology can look forward to excellent earning potential. The median annual wage stands at $84,140, and top professionals earn more than $126,680.

Speech pathology programs give you the skills to help people who struggle with communication disorders, swallowing difficulties, and voice problems. The field continues to expand, but the cost of education remains high. We created this list of the 15 best master’s programs to help you choose the right path for your career.

University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program at UT Health San Antonio excels with its medically-focused curriculum in a health science campus environment. Students benefit from a unique integration of academic coursework and community-based clinical experience that prepares them for success in healthcare settings.

Overview

UT Health San Antonio provides a reliable master’s in speech-language pathology through its Communication Sciences and Disorders Department within the School of Health Professions. The curriculum emphasizes medical applications and offers deeper training in specialty areas like swallowing disorders, tracheostomy care, and head and neck cancer. Students develop skills to serve both adults and children with medical and educational needs.

Accreditation

The program holds full accreditation by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association through June 30, 2027. UT Health San Antonio also maintains institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Program length

Students complete this full-time residential program in five consecutive semesters (two years) to earn 66 semester credit hours. The program has achieved excellent completion rates, with 98.4% of students graduating on time in the last three years.

Cost

Tuition rates differ based on residency status:

Incoming Fall Students:

In-state: $8,573 (Fall), $9,447 (Spring), $6,638 (Summer)
Out-of-state: $11,753 (Fall), $7,233 (Spring), $18,986 (Summer)

Clinical experience

Students must complete a minimum of 400 supervised clinical hours in a variety of settings to qualify for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence. The program features opportunities for interprofessional collaboration and community-based projects.

Admission requirements

Admission requirements include:

Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
Overall GPA of 3.0 or higher
Three letters of recommendation
A grade of C or better in prerequisite courses

Students must also complete specific prerequisite coursework in basic human communication and sciences.

James Madison University

James Madison University’s master’s in speech-language pathology gives students a detailed education in communication and swallowing disorders. Students get the perfect mix of academic challenge and hands-on experience that prepares them for many career paths.

Program overview

JMU’s Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology gives students rich academic and practical experiences they need to work with human communication and swallowing disorders. The program makes effective communication available to everyone, which aligns with ASHA’s core mission. Students can choose between residential and online options. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the residential program as Virginia’s best SLP program.

Accreditation

The Council on Academic Accreditation of ASHA has fully accredited this program through June 30, 2026. The academic and clinical parts meet all certification requirements from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Students also qualify for health and education licensures from the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Program length

The residential program takes five consecutive semesters (two years) of full-time study. Students achieve great results, with a 100% Praxis pass rate and everyone finding jobs in the profession.

Cost and financial aid

Students starting in 2025-2026 will pay $573 per credit hour if they’re from Virginia, while out-of-state students pay $1,314 per credit hour. First-year residential students can get graduate assistantships and Scottish Rite Fellowships based on merit. Students who complete their applications get automatic consideration for these merit-based awards.

Clinical experience

Students gain clinical experience in various settings. These include JMU Audiology and Speech-Language Clinics, hospitals, rehabilitation programs, and public schools. The university clinic uses advanced research methods while providing excellent clinical education.

Admission requirements

Students need at least a 3.25 GPA overall and in their major. They must apply through both CSDCAS and JMU Graduate School platforms. The program looks at the whole person during review, including critical thinking, compassion, collaboration, adaptability, resilience, and openness to feedback.

University of Wisconsin-Madison

The master’s in speech-language pathology program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison ranks among the field’s most respected programs. Students benefit from a curriculum that combines clinical practice with research opportunities. The program creates a path to professional success through academic excellence and hands-on experience.

Program overview

UW-Madison’s Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology offers two distinct tracks that align with your career goals. Students interested in clinical work can choose the Speech-Language Pathology track. Those planning for doctoral studies can select the Normal Aspects of Speech, Language, and Hearing track. Both options provide detailed education in communication disorders assessment and treatment. Students gain supervised clinical experiences throughout their studies.

Accreditation

The Council on Academic Accreditation of the American Speech–Language–Hearing Association has fully accredited the program. This recognition will give students confidence that they’re receiving quality education that meets high academic standards. Graduates will be ready for clinical certification, with the next review scheduled for 2028.

Program length

Students can complete their master’s degree in four academic semesters plus one summer session. This two-year timeline works best for students who have finished their prerequisite undergraduate coursework. The program requires a minimum of 50 credits to graduate, and students can choose between thesis and non-thesis options.

Cost

Annual tuition rates vary by residence:

Wisconsin residents: $10,766 per year
Non-residents: $38,654 per year
Minnesota residents: $14,812 per year

Students should budget for course materials ($1,150), housing and meals ($12,548), and personal expenses ($2,250).

Clinical experience

Clinical training starts with 25 documented observation hours before placement at the UW Speech and Hearing Clinic or other sites. Second-year students need a minimum of 100 hours of supervised clinical practice to qualify for school or medical practicum experiences. Students gain experience in a variety of settings including hospitals, public schools, and the university clinic.

Admission requirements

You’ll need:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
Minimum 3.0 GPA (competitive applicants typically have higher)
Three letters of recommendation (at least two from academic instructors)
Personal statement (1-3 pages)
Resume highlighting relevant experiences
Completed prerequisite coursework
Application deadline: January 15

The program has permanently eliminated the GRE requirement.

Purdue University

Purdue University’s master’s in speech-language pathology program offers a perfect blend of academic rigor and clinical training. Students find an ideal balance between affordability and excellence in this program.

Program overview

The clinical Master of Science program at Purdue teaches you to deliver independent clinical services in speech-language pathology to patients of all ages. The program, based in West Lafayette, Indiana, lets students choose between thesis and non-thesis tracks within the Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences. Students work alongside expert faculty members including audiologists, speech-language pathologists, engineers, linguists, and neuroscientists who advance research in communication disorders.

Accreditation

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association fully accredits the Master of Science program. The program’s accreditation runs through 2031, and the next review will take place in February 2031.

Program length

Students can complete this intensive program in just five consecutive semesters (two years), with a minimum requirement of 36 semester credit hours.

Cost and financial aid

Purdue shows its dedication to affordability by managing to keep tuition frozen for 14 years. Students can expect to pay between $39,034 and $40,314 for the Master’s program. The university provides financial support to about 73% of students through scholarships, grants, loans, or work-study opportunities.

Clinical experience

Students must complete 25 clock hours of ASHA-certified supervised observation before starting clinical work. The M.D. Steer Speech, Language, and Swallowing Clinics provides hands-on experience where students diagnose, assess, and treat communication and swallowing disorders with faculty supervision.

Admission requirements

The program accepts applications until January 15 for fall admission. Requirements include:

Application through both CSDCAS and Purdue’s online system
Three letters of recommendation
Two writing samples/essays
Video response to prompt
Resume showing leadership and shared experiences

Strong candidates typically have GPAs between 3.53-4.00. Recent admission cycles saw 216 applications, with 65 offers made to reach a target class size of 40 students.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s School of Medicine offers an elite master’s program in speech-language pathology. Students benefit from challenging academic coursework and detailed clinical training in a competitive learning environment.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Speech and Hearing Sciences at UNC Chapel Hill has two paths available. Students can choose between a 60-semester-hour clinical track that leads to ASHA certification or a non-clinical track focused on research careers. The program’s placement in the Department of Health Sciences gives students access to valuable interdisciplinary healthcare resources. Recent graduating classes have achieved remarkable success with a 100% pass rate on the Praxis examination.

Accreditation

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology has granted full accreditation to the residential speech-language pathology program through 2032. The next review will take place in February 2031. This accreditation means graduates will meet all requirements needed for ASHA certification and North Carolina state licensure.

Program length

The detailed program spans two years and includes a summer semester between the first and second year. Students must complete 60 hours of graduate coursework, which consists of 10 core courses and electives. Students interested in research can work with faculty members to complete an optional master’s thesis.

Cost and financial aid

Annual tuition and fees differ based on where you live:

In-state students: $12,522 annually ($10,552 tuition + $1,970 fees)
Out-of-state students: $30,248 annually ($28,278 tuition + $1,970 fees)

Financial assistance helps 60% of enrolled students. Students can access various funding options such as Merit Scholarships, DSHS Stipends, departmental scholarships, the Allcott Fellowship for outstanding community service, and work-study assistantships.

Clinical experience

Students participate in supervised clinical experiences each semester in a variety of settings. They work at major medical centers, rehabilitation facilities, schools, early intervention programs, private clinics, and university-affiliated sites. The program requires at least 400 hours of supervised clinical experience – 25 observation hours plus 375 hours of direct patient contact.

Admission requirements

The program maintains high standards and accepts only 20% of applicants. Candidates need:

Bachelor’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA
Application through CSDCAS (deadline: December 16, 2025)
UNC Supplemental Application (deadline: January 13, 2026)
Three recommendation letters
Five essay questions (300 words each)

The program no longer requires GRE scores for upcoming application cycles.

San Diego State University

San Diego State University’s master’s in speech-language pathology program ranks #1 in California and #12 nationally according to U.S. News & World Report. The program selects only 40-45 students from about 600 applications each admission cycle.

Program overview

The Master of Arts in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences will prepare you to practice professionally as a speech-language pathologist. Students receive complete training in communication disorders of all types, including articulation, fluency, voice disorders, and swallowing difficulties. The curriculum meets all requirements for ASHA certification, California state licensure, and the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential.

Accreditation

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association fully accredits this program.

Program length

Students complete this intensive, full-time program in five consecutive semesters, spanning two academic years plus one summer. The program’s scheduling requirements and accreditation standards don’t allow part-time or remote options.

Cost and financial aid

California residents’ basic tuition and fees total $10,794 annually for 2025-26, while non-residents pay an additional $444 per unit. Students can access university-wide scholarships, out-of-state tuition waivers, teaching assistantships, and research positions in faculty labs.

Clinical experience

The university’s Speech-Language Clinic provides your primary training facility. This 1941-established clinic lets you diagnose and treat communication disorders while ASHA-certified faculty supervise your work. Your time here counts toward the 400 supervised clinical hours needed for certification.

Admission requirements

Application requirements include:

Minimum 3.2 GPA (competitive applicants typically have ~3.8)
Completed prerequisite coursework
Three letters of recommendation
TOEFL/IELTS/PTE/DuoLingo scores (international applicants)
Two-step application process through both CalState Apply and CSDCAS

University of Florida

The University of Florida offers an exceptional Master of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders that balances academic rigor with real-world clinical practice. Students become skilled speech-language pathologists through evidence-based training and hands-on experience.

Program overview

The Master of Arts program blends classroom learning with practical experience in multiple clinical settings. Students learn to deliver evidence-based services to patients of all backgrounds in various healthcare environments.

Accreditation

The program holds full accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of ASHA. This ensures graduates meet all national certification requirements.

Program length

Students complete this full-time, campus-based program in five consecutive semesters. The curriculum provides a clear path to professional qualification.

Cost and financial aid

The 2025-26 academic year costs range from $31,720 for in-state on-campus students to $55,212 for out-state off-campus students. Most students (94%) receive financial aid.

Clinical experience

Students work at clinical sites that cover every aspect of the profession. They participate in modified barium swallow studies and work in specialized clinics.

Admission requirements

The program accepts less than 25% of applicants. Requirements include:

January 15 application deadline
Minimum 3.0 GPA (successful applicants usually have 3.7-4.0)
Prerequisite courses for non-CSD majors
Official transcripts submitted to both CSDCAS and UF

Marquette University

Marquette University stands out by offering a unique English-Spanish bilingual specialization in its master’s speech-language pathology program. This program creates professionals ready to help diverse populations with communication disorders.

Program overview

The graduate curriculum helps students become skilled at preventing, identifying, evaluating, and treating speech, language, and hearing disorders in patients of all ages. Students receive comprehensive clinical training that meets ASHA certification requirements and state licensure standards for Wisconsin and Illinois.

Accreditation

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of ASHA fully accredits this master of science program. Graduates receive nationally recognized credentials.

Program length

Students earn a minimum of 52 credit hours and complete the program in two years, which includes four terms and one summer session.

Cost and financial aid

Each credit hour costs $1,408. The university offers merit-based scholarships and graduate assistantships based on academic achievements rather than clinical performance.

Clinical experience

The program requires 400 clinical clock hours – 375 hours of direct patient contact and 25 hours of observation. Students gain experience through placements in medical facilities, schools, and campus clinics.

Admission requirements

Requirements include:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
Minimum 3.0 GPA
Completed prerequisite coursework
January 15 application deadline

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences has the first graduate speech-language pathology program in Arkansas. The program’s location on a major medical sciences campus makes it special. Yes, it is a master’s program that blends academic instruction with supervised clinical experiences each semester.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology Program admits a cohort of 24 students annually. The curriculum focuses on speech science, language, and swallowing among evaluation and treatment methods. First-year students get experience at the university’s in-house clinic that serves clients with various needs such as aphasia, child language disorders, and literacy challenges.

Accreditation

The program has full accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology through February 2025. Students who complete all requirements can get Arkansas state licensure and ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence.

Program length

The full-time program runs for five consecutive semesters (two fall, two spring, one summer). Students need to complete at least 54 semester credit hours while keeping a 3.0 GPA.

Cost and financial aid

Arkansas residents pay approximately $33,116 for the total program cost. This covers tuition ($21,924), health insurance ($6,284), and various fees. Students must have health insurance coverage during their enrollment.

Clinical experience

Students must complete at least 375 supervised clinical practicum hours plus 25 observation hours. They start with in-house clinical experiences, then move to rotations with more than 70 affiliated facilities.

Admission requirements

Requirements include:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
Minimum 3.0 GPA (this is a big deal as it means that competitive applicants typically have above 3.4)
Three recommendation letters (two from CSD instructors)
Personal essay and resume
Prerequisite coursework in communication sciences

Towson University

Towson University’s speech-language pathology master’s program combines challenging academics with extensive clinical practice. Students demonstrate excellence with more than 95% passing the National Praxis Examination on their first attempt.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program prepares students through comprehensive coursework and clinical experience. Students complete on-campus practicum during their first year, while the second-year schedule allows for daytime off-campus placements.

Accreditation

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology has accredited the program through 2028. The next review will take place in February 2027.

Program length

This full-time residential program takes five consecutive semesters (two years) to complete.

Cost and financial aid

Students pay approximately $730 per credit for in-state tuition and $1,330 per credit for out-of-state tuition. Graduate assistantships provide tuition waivers and modest stipends.

Clinical experience

Students start their clinical training at the Speech & Language Center and later move to placements at leading medical centers and schools. The program requires 400 clinical hours, including 25 observation hours that must be completed before starting.

Admission requirements

The program accepts applications until January 15 for fall enrollment. Students need:

Minimum 3.0 GPA
Three recommendation letters (two from professors)
No GRE scores needed
Personal statement
Prerequisite coursework completion

University of South Florida

USF offers its master’s in speech-language pathology program through two tracks that work well for both full-time students and school-based working professionals.

Program overview

Students can earn their M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology by choosing either a six-semester residential track or a nine-semester Suncoast track. The Suncoast option helps speech-language clinicians who work full-time in Florida school districts and already have their bachelor’s degrees.

Accreditation

The program holds full accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of ASHA until 2029. The next review will take place in August 2028.

Program length

Students in the residential track complete their studies in six consecutive semesters, while Suncoast students need nine semesters. Both paths require students to complete 62 semester credit hours.

Cost and financial aid

Students benefit from one of the nation’s lowest tuition rates at USF. Almost all students (99%) receive some form of financial aid.

Clinical experience

Students spend their first year completing three rotations at the USF Speech-Language Clinic. Their second year involves two community externships. They gain practical experience in a variety of settings such as hospitals, schools, and rehabilitation centers.

Admission requirements

The program requires a minimum 3.2 GPA, but successful applicants usually have GPAs between 3.7-3.8. Both program tracks share the same application deadline of January 15.

University of Northern Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado has an exceptional master’s program in speech-language pathology. Their clinician-researcher model helps students become skilled at critical thinking and evidence-based practice.

Program overview

The Master of Arts program shapes future speech-language pathologists through detailed academic instruction and practical clinical training. Students learn to create clinical questions and make use of research data. They also evaluate outcomes and present their findings in different ways. Full-time residential students should be available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday. This time is needed for classes, clinics, community work, and other learning activities.

Accreditation

The program is fully accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and the Colorado Department of Education. Graduates can apply for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence and qualify for Colorado Department of Education licensure.

Program length

Students complete this intensive program in two years over five consecutive semesters.

Cost and financial aid

Colorado residents pay about $12,024 per semester in tuition for 2025-26. Most graduate students receive financial support from various sources. The program’s participation in the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education lets students from 14 Western states pay in-state tuition rates.

Clinical experience

Students get extensive supervised practice at UNC’s Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Clinic and other clinics throughout Colorado. The program offers two internships at public schools and medical facilities. Students can complete these locally or in other locations.

Admission requirements

The program accepts applications for Fall 2025 starting October 1, 2024. The deadline is February 1, 2025. Students need a minimum 3.0 GPA and must apply through CSDCAS. A strong background in communication disorders and sciences is essential.

Western Kentucky University

Western Kentucky University offers its master’s in speech-language pathology through both on-campus and online formats. Students can choose the learning path that works best for them.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program creates professionals who treat communication and swallowing disorders in a variety of populations. The program started in 1975 and has helped graduates meet ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence requirements.

Accreditation

ASHA’s Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology fully accredits the program. This recognition will give graduates the ability to pursue national certification and state licensure.

Program length

Students need to complete 60 credit hours in this detailed program. The program accepts new students once a year and classes begin in fall.

Cost and financial aid

Distance learning students pay around $45,000 total. Residential students pay $40,000 if they’re state residents and $60,000 if they’re from out of state. Students can access several scholarships, grants, and assistantships.

Clinical experience

Distance learners start their clinical training with a six-week summer internship. Students must log at least 400 clinical hours during their studies.

Admission requirements

Students need a minimum 3.0 GPA and must finish eight prerequisite courses in communication disorders basics. Applications are due by January 15.

East Carolina University

East Carolina University stands out with its unique dual-format master’s in speech-language pathology. Students can choose between on-campus and distance education options that fit their needs.

Program overview

ECU’s Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders has two emphasis areas: speech-language pathology and communication sciences. The speech-language pathology emphasis gets you ready for clinical certification, while the non-clinical communication sciences track suits students interested in research careers. The speech-language pathology emphasis gives students the choice of traditional on-campus or distance education formats.

Accreditation

The program holds full accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Graduates can apply for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology.

Program length

Students on campus usually finish the program in 5-6 semesters, while distance education students need 8-9 semesters. The on-campus track consists of four semesters of didactic courses and one full-time clinical internship semester.

Cost and financial aid

Annual graduate tuition rates are $7,485 for residents and $20,634 for non-residents. Distance education students benefit from lower rates at $4,487 (residents) and $16,089 (non-residents). More than half of the students receive financial assistance.

Clinical experience

Students need 25 observation hours before they start clinical experiences. The program requires a minimum of 250 clinical clock hours at the graduate level.

Admission requirements

Students must maintain a minimum 3.0 overall GPA and 3.2 GPA in prerequisite courses. The yearly application cycle runs from July 15 to January 15. ECU makes it clear that the GRE is NOT required, unlike many other programs.

California State University Northridge

CSU Northridge stands at the vanguard of speech pathology education. The university ranks #12 among 134 schools nationwide and sits firmly in the top 10% for speech-language pathology programs.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Communicative Disorders meets academic requirements for nationwide licensure in medical settings, public schools, and ASHA certification. The nationally recognized program delivers 100% online coursework and provides specialized training to work with multilingual and multicultural clients.

Accreditation

The program holds full accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of ASHA. The curriculum also meets California Commission on Teacher Credentialing education standards.

Program length

The complete master’s program requires 63 semester units.

Cost and financial aid

Spring 2026 tuition runs $862 per unit, which amounts to $54,306 for the program. CSUN graduates see excellent returns on their investment and earn median salaries of $79,688. This places them in the top 3% nationally.

Clinical experience

Students develop practical skills at the on-campus Language, Speech and Hearing Center. The program matches you with a practicum site near your location.

Admission requirements

Application requirements include:

Bachelor’s degree in Communication Disorders or completion of 10 prerequisite courses
Minimum 2.5 GPA (competitive applicants average 3.79)
Three recommendations (two from academic faculty)
No GRE requirement for Fall 2026
January 15 application deadline

Pick the Right SLP Program Today

Picking the right master’s program in speech-language pathology is a vital step toward a rewarding career that helps people overcome communication challenges. This piece shows programs that offer exceptional educational foundations, clinical experiences, and career preparation opportunities. Of course, each university brings its own strengths—through specialized tracks, bilingual training options, or distinctive clinical settings.

Speech-language pathology continues to grow by a lot faster than most other professions. The median annual salaries of $84,000 and steady job openings in healthcare and educational settings make your investment in education worth it both financially and in career satisfaction.

Rankings alone shouldn’t determine your program choice. You should assess each program’s clinical opportunities, faculty’s expertise, cost structure, and location. Your personal career goals matter just as much—whether you want to work in medical settings, schools, or research environments.

Many programs provide substantial financial help through scholarships, assistantships, and grants, which offsets the big educational investment. High employment rates after graduation show the strong market demand for qualified speech-language pathologists.

Starting your experience as a speech-language pathologist begins with selecting a program that arranges with your professional goals and personal circumstances. The institution you pick from this carefully selected list will give you everything you need to succeed in this meaningful, growing profession that improves communication abilities in a variety of populations.