9 Best SLP Programs in Florida: Complete Guide for 2025-2026

Florida offers 25 SLP programs at Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral levels, which can make choosing the right one challenging.

The state has 11 CAA-ASHA accredited speech language pathology programs, with 8 Master’s and 3 Doctorate options. The University of Florida’s Master’s in Communication Sciences and Disorders stands out as highly selective, accepting only 25% of applicants. Students looking at online speech pathology graduate programs have 6 fully online choices. These include Florida State University’s 3-year program and Nova Southeastern University’s flexible full-time and part-time tracks.

This guide examines the 9 best graduate SLP programs in Florida. You’ll find a detailed comparison of admission requirements, program structures, and clinical opportunities. The guide also covers preparation for the National Examination of Speech Pathology and Audiology—where some programs achieve a 100% pass rate. The information here will help you make a well-informed choice about your speech pathology education in the Sunshine State, whether you’re starting your search or finalizing your decision.

University of South Florida

The University of South Florida runs one of Florida’s most detailed speech-language pathology programs. Students can choose from three different tracks based on their needs. The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program at USF’s Tampa campus combines challenging coursework with practical clinical experience to prepare students for careers in clinical settings of all types.

Program overview

USF’s Speech-Language Pathology program gives students three educational paths: the Residential Track, Suncoast Consortium Track, and Post-Baccalaureate Track. Students in the Residential Track get a traditional full-time experience that combines coursework and clinical rotations each semester. The Suncoast Consortium Track helps bachelor’s-level professionals who already work in consortium school districts through a nine-semester program that uses distance and on-site teaching. Students with degrees outside Communication Sciences and Disorders can take prerequisite courses through the Post-Baccalaureate Track to qualify for graduate admission.

The program stands out thanks to its world-class resources and expert clinicians and scientists from multiple specialties. The Master’s program has full accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association through 2029.

Admission requirements

Getting into USF’s SLP program isn’t easy. You’ll need:

• A minimum GPA of 3.2 for all completed coursework after the first 60 hours
• Completed GRE within five years of applying
• Three letters of recommendation
• A letter of interest and resume

You must also complete these seven prerequisite courses:

• Introduction to Language Development and Disorders
• Introduction to Hearing Science
• Anatomy & Physiology of the Speech Hearing Mechanism
• Applied Phonetics in Communication Disorders
• Introduction to Speech Science
• Introduction to Disorders of Hearing
• Neuroanatomy

A recent cohort saw 182 applications with 67 admission offers. Admitted students’ GPAs ranged from 3.17 to 4.00.

University of South Florida program duration and credits

The Residential Track takes six semesters (two years) to complete, while the Suncoast Track runs for nine semesters (three years). Students need at least 62 credit hours: 29 core credits, 24 practicum credits, and 9 thesis/non-thesis credits.

Students start with an Original Plan of Study covering their first two semesters of required coursework and first three semesters of clinical practica. An Advanced Plan of Study guides the remaining semesters.

Tuition and costs

USF has one of the lowest tuition rates in the country. Both Kiplinger’s Personal Finance and U.S. News & World Report have recognized the university’s affordability. While specific SLP program costs aren’t listed, USF mentions that their out-of-state rates often match local universities’ in-state tuition.

Students can get financial help through Graduate Assistantships, Fellowships, Scholarships, and Research Assistantships. Filing a FAFSA automatically puts you in the running for federal, state, and university financial aid programs.

Clinical practicum details

USF’s clinical training follows a well-laid-out plan. Residential students complete:

• Three rotations at the USF Speech Language Clinic during their first year
• Two externships at different community sites during their second year
• One advanced practicum at the USF clinic or community site

Students work with patients of all ages, from young children to adults. USF partners with more than 200 sites in the Tampa Bay area, including hospitals, VA facilities, rehabilitation centers, school districts, charter schools, and private clinics.

Licensure preparation

Students must earn a “B-” or better in each course and keep a 3.00 GPA in all coursework and clinical practica to graduate and qualify for licensure. They also need to pass a comprehensive exam. The program requires at least 400 clinical clock hours, with 25 hours in observation and 250 hours in speech-language pathology.

USF’s graduates can get a Florida Professional Teaching Certificate after completing this state-approved program [link_2]. This certificate works in 50 other states and territories. Other states accept Florida’s certificate as proof of high-quality preparation in the certification subject.

University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida shines as a top choice for future speech-language pathologists. Based in Orlando, its School of Communication Sciences and Disorders combines academic excellence with real clinical experience in a well-laid-out program.

Program overview

UCF’s Master of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders comes with four admission tracks: Traditional, Out-of-Field, Consortium, and Accelerated. This master’s program equips speech-language pathologists to work in schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private practices. The program holds full accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language-Hearing Association through 2032.

The program’s detailed curriculum covers communication disorders at every life stage. Students can earn specialized certificates in Autism Spectrum Disorders and Language and Literacy. On top of that, UCF emphasizes multicultural training to help graduates work with diverse populations.

Admission requirements

Students need to complete both the UCF graduate application and the CSDCAS application. Key requirements include:

• Three letters of recommendation (preferably from former faculty)
• A one-page statement about your interest in the field
• Current resume with relevant experience
• Optional video submission

The program accepts students twice a year. Application deadlines are January 15 for fall and October 1 for spring admission. UCF received 442 applications recently and accepted 191 students, with GPAs between 3.01-4.00. Most accepted students have GPAs between 3.6 and 3.8.

Program duration and credits

Students complete this full-time, in-person master’s program in six semesters (about two years). The program requires 72 credit hours:

• 38 credit hours of core academic courses
• 9 credit hours of electives
• 25 credit hours of clinical practice

Students must start in their admitted semester and stay enrolled full-time.

Tuition and costs

UCF offers more affordable tuition than many similar programs. Total costs range from $33,677 to $35,165, and 94% of students get financial aid. Out-of-state students pay more, around $40,000 for the full program. Per-credit costs come to $212 for in-state and $748 for out-of-state students.

Clinical practicum details

UCF’s extensive clinical training sets it apart. Students learn hands-on at the UCF Communication Disorders Clinic and through internships at more than 200 off-campus locations across Florida and the United States.

Students spend their final two semesters in clinical placements at schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private practices. These experiences help them develop key skills:

• Conducting diagnostic evaluations
• Developing treatment plans
• Working with diverse populations
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals

Licensure preparation

The program gives students everything they need for professional licensure. Its curriculum meets American Speech-Language-Hearing Association certification and Florida licensure requirements. The program confirms it meets Florida’s educational requirements for speech-language pathologist licensure, though requirements may vary by state.

Speech-language pathology careers look promising, with 25% growth expected over the next decade. Speech-language pathologists earned a median annual wage of $80,480 as of May 2020.

University of Florida

The University of Florida stands at the center of Gainesville. Its Master of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders program blends challenging academic work with extensive clinical training. Students who want to become speech-language pathologists will find this competitive program matches their goals through evidence-based training and exceptional hands-on experience.

Program overview

UF’s MA in Communication Sciences and Disorders runs as a full-time, campus-based program over five semesters. The Council on Academic Accreditation of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has fully accredited this program. Students learn through active classroom participation and real clinical experiences.

The program aims to create speech-language pathologists who help people with communication and swallowing disorders. UF shapes professionals known for their skills, leadership, ethics, and love of learning.

The numbers speak for themselves. Recent data shows 98.9% of students finished the program on time. Every student passed the Praxis exam on their first try, scoring an average of 181. Better yet, 97.7% of graduates found jobs as speech-language pathologists.

Admission requirements

Getting into UF’s program isn’t easy – only 25% of applicants make the cut. You’ll need:

• A minimum 3.0 upper division GPA (most accepted students have 3.7-4.0)
• Three recommendation letters sent straight to CSDCAS
• One essay (400-500 words) answering a specific topic
• A CV or resume (max 2 pages)

Students without Communication Sciences degrees must complete prerequisite courses. These include phonetics, speech and hearing science, speech system anatomy and physiology, language development, and basic concepts of speech-language disorders and audiometry.

Program duration and credits

The five-semester program starts in fall and ends the following spring. First-year coursework covers pediatric language disorders, speech motor control disorders, and adult language disorders. Students start clinical practice right away. Later courses include phonological disorders, multicultural issues, and dysphagia management. Students finish with either an externship or thesis.

Non-thesis students complete a 9-credit externship in their final semester. Students choosing the thesis track conduct original research with faculty guidance.

Tuition and costs

Florida residents pay about $530.69 per credit hour, while non-residents pay $1,327.88 per credit hour for the 2025-26 academic year. UF’s strong reputation helps many students secure financial support through various programs.

Clinical practicum details

Students get hands-on experience at several clinical sites:

• UF Health Rehab for Kids at Magnolia Parke
• UF Health Norman Fixel Center Institute for Neurological Diseases
• UF Craniofacial Center
• Alachua County Public Schools
• Veterans Administration Medical Center
• Various skilled nursing facilities

Clinical externships extend beyond Gainesville to cities like Atlanta, Jacksonville, Orlando, Miami, and nationwide. Licensed and certified speech-language pathologists mentor students throughout their clinical experiences.

Licensure preparation

Graduates emerge ready for professional licensure. UF lists all U.S. states where its degree meets academic requirements for licensure. The program’s perfect Praxis exam pass rate shows how well it prepares students for certification.

Graduates leave with skills to provide evidence-based clinical services in many populations and settings.

Florida State University

Florida State University’s School of Communication Science and Disorders ranks among the top 10% of graduate schools nationwide. Students can pursue their speech-language pathology career goals through multiple pathways. The school has 22 full-time faculty scholars and clinical educators who provide great academic and clinical training for future SLPs.

Program overview

FSU’s Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders offers both main-campus and distance learning options. Students can work in schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private practices after graduation. The program maintains similar academic and clinical standards for both formats. This makes FSU a great choice for students who can’t relocate. The program received prestigious accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology through 2033.

Admission requirements

Students need to submit applications by January 15 for fall admission. FSU doesn’t use CSDCAS like other universities. Applications go through their Graduate Application Portal instead. Basic requirements include:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Upper division GPA of at least 3.0 (admitted students typically have 3.00-4.00)
• Prerequisite coursework in Communication Science and Disorders
• Three letters of recommendation

Competition is fierce with about 500 applications yearly. Only 70 students receive admission annually.

Duration and credits

Campus students usually finish the program in six academic semesters. This includes one semester of off-campus internship. Distance learning students take about nine semesters (three years). Students must complete 61 semester credit hours. They start with core classes and gain clinical experience at the university clinic. Later, they take elective courses during school and community placements.

Tuition and costs

For 2025-2026, in-state graduate students pay $479.32 per credit hour. Out-of-state students pay $1,173.86. Program costs have risen slightly from $30,566 in 2019 to $31,258 in 2021. The good news is that 96% of students get financial aid.

Clinical practicum details

First-year students train at the L.L. Schendel Speech and Hearing Clinic. Each student joins at least one child-focused team (PLAY, LISTEN, or TALK) and one adult-focused team (ACE or SOAR). Students also complete three diagnostic team rotations. These cover adult diagnostics, child diagnostics, and hearing management.

Licensure preparation

The program helps students meet Florida licensure requirements. Students learn to diagnose and treat communication disorders for patients of all ages through coursework and clinical experiences. The program ends with a full-time, 8-week internship. Students spend at least 32 hours weekly on-site.

Florida International University

Florida International University’s Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program stands out among graduate SLP programs in Florida because of its unique bilingual focus. Graduates are well-prepared to work with the growing number of bilingual patients who need specialized care.

Program overview

The MS-SLP program at FIU’s Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing & Health Sciences is a CAA-accredited program that champions cultural and linguistic diversity. This full-time, 6-semester program combines bilingual curriculum, clinical experience, and master’s project work. The program, 23 years old, earned its CAA accreditation in 2004 and maintains it through Fall 2024. Students need a Praxis Examination score of 162 or higher to complete their degree.

Admission requirements

You’ll need these qualifications for FIU’s program:

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university
• Minimum 3.0 GPA in upper-level coursework
• A completed undergraduate program in Communication Sciences & Disorders or required prerequisite coursework
• 25 clinical observation hours with proper documentation
• Specific general education courses in biological science, physical science, social sciences, and statistics

Students whose first language isn’t English must score 550 (paper) or 80 (internet) on TOEFL, or 6.5 on IELTS.

Program duration and credits

The program runs for six semesters including summers and requires 61 total credits. The curriculum has 46 hours of didactic coursework (9 in bilingual emphasis), 3 credits of electives, and 12 hours of practicum. Students can choose between a group master’s data-based research project or a thesis.

Tuition and costs

Florida residents pay about $43,691 for the program, with total costs reaching $48,345 including fees. Non-resident tuition costs $77,000, with total expenses of $81,654 including fees. The good news is that 96% of students receive financial aid, and the Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing & Health Sciences offers scholarships.

Practicum details

Students complete four clinical rotations—one each semester during their final four semesters. These experiences cover patients of all ages and various communication disorders, including cultural and linguistic differences. A minimum of 400 clinical clock hours must be completed through various placements, though most graduates accumulate more hours than required.

Licensure preparation

The program equips students to meet Florida’s licensing requirements. Students take the Praxis exam during their final spring semester. Graduates meet all academic and practicum requirements to apply for the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.

Florida Atlantic University

Florida Atlantic University’s Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders runs a comprehensive MS in Speech-Language Pathology program in Boca Raton. This 38-year-old program started with just nine students and now enrolls more than 50 students.

Program overview

The Council on Academic Accreditation has accredited the Master of Science program at FAU in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology through 2031. The program aims to develop “highly qualified, capable, ethical professionals” who make sound decisions in speech-language pathology. Students achieve excellent outcomes with 86-92% completing the program on time in the last three years. The program boasts a 100% Praxis examination pass rate for three straight years.

Admission requirements

Students must apply through the CSD Central Application Service (CSDCAS) by January 15 for fall admission. Most successful candidates have GPAs between 3.06-4.00. Key requirements include:

• GRE scores (admitted students average: Verbal 148, Quantitative 150, Analytical Writing 3.9)
• Three letters of recommendation
• International students need: TOEFL score of 548 (paper-based) or 80 (internet-based), IELTS 6.5, or Duolingo 110

The program accepted 69 students from 103 applications recently.

Program duration and credits

Students complete this full-time program in two years. The curriculum needs 68 semester credit hours:

• 6 credits in education (Educational Research, Statistics)
• 44 credits in communication disorders coursework
• 14 credits of clinical practicum
• 6 credits of electives

Students can choose part-time options that take 3-4 years.

Tuition and costs

Florida residents pay $371.82 per credit hour while non-residents pay $1,026.81. The nine-month budget runs $32,864 for residents and $44,168 for non-residents. First-year international students should expect costs around $31,535.

Clinical practicum details

Graduation requires 375 clinical hours. Students work with patients from age one to their 90s. The Communication Disorders Clinic serves as both a professional clinic and teaching facility, offering free services to the community. Students can gain experience on campus, work with Parkinson’s patients, and lead support groups.

Licensure preparation

Students meet all requirements for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence and Florida licensure. The program’s perfect Praxis pass rate shows how well it prepares graduates for professional practice. Students planning to work outside Florida should check their state’s specific requirements.

Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University stands as an independent, nonprofit institution. This 59-year-old university offers one of the nation’s largest SLP master’s programs with both residential and distance education options. NSU creates a diverse learning environment for aspiring speech-language pathologists as a Hispanic-Serving Institution.

Program overview

NSU’s Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program has accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation through 2032. The program equips professionals to serve clients with communication and swallowing disorders in settings of all types. The program started at the Fort Lauderdale/Davie campus and now maintains similar academic standards for both on-campus and online students.

Admission requirements

The program accepts applications on a rolling basis with deadlines of October 15 (fall), February 28 (spring), and June 1 (summer). Requirements include:

• Three letters of recommendation
• Personal interview
• Writing sample/essay
• 25 hours of guided clinical observation

The program receives approximately 150 applications yearly and typically admits 110 students with GPAs ranging from 2.84-4.00.

Program duration and credits

Students must complete 54 total credits over 8-9 semesters. The curriculum has 42 didactic credits, 6 elective credits, and 6 clinical practicum credits that follow a well-laid-out sequence of core courses.

Tuition and costs

Students pay approximately $730 per credit hour. Program fees include:

• Health Professions Division general access fee: $145
• Clinical practicum fees: $200 per practicum course

Clinical practicum details

The program requires students to complete 375 hours of supervised direct client contact with populations of all types. Students participate in on-campus practicums and externships, and the program helps secure sites near students’ locations.

Licensure preparation

Students can meet educational requirements for licensure in all 50 states through this program. Graduation requirements include completing the Praxis examination, maintaining a 3.0 GPA, and demonstrating competency in all clinical areas.

Jacksonville University

Jacksonville University ranks among Florida’s innovative graduate SLP programs. Students can choose between full-time in-person classes and part-time distance education pathways. The program helps students become skilled professionals who can assess, diagnose, and treat speech, language, cognitive, and swallowing disorders.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program offers two options: a 5-semester full-time in-person track and an 8-semester part-time online alternative. Expert faculty members with extensive clinical knowledge and research experience lead the program. The university maintains strategic collaborations with leading healthcare organizations and schools. The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology has fully accredited the program.

Admission requirements

Students must submit applications through CSDCAS. Requirements include:

• Minimum 3.0 GPA
• Three letters of recommendation
• Statement of intent
• Resume/CV
• Optional GRE scores

International students need a minimum TOEFL score of 550 (paper-based) or 80 (internet-based).

Program duration and credits

The full-time program takes 5 semesters, while the part-time distance option needs 8 semesters. Both tracks require 60 credit hours of academic coursework with labs and clinical placements. Distance education students join synchronous virtual classes on Eastern Standard Time.

Tuition and costs

Students pay $900 per credit hour, with first-year expenses reaching approximately $27,550. The complete program costs around $57,000. Graduates earn a median salary of $89,290 and enjoy a 99% employment rate.

Clinical practicum details

Students complete at least 375 supervised clinical hours. They learn about various populations through affiliations with major healthcare systems, public school districts, private schools, skilled nursing facilities, and private practices in North Florida.

Licensure preparation

The program prepares graduates to earn the Certificate of Clinical Competence from ASHA. The curriculum meets Florida’s licensure requirements and has reciprocity with other states. Job projections show 33,100 new positions between 2022-2032.

Gannon University

Gannon University’s Speech-Language Pathology program in Ruskin, Florida builds on a 90-year tradition of academic excellence. The program blends Catholic values with its curriculum and emphasizes individual-specific care through an integrated approach.

Program overview

Students in Gannon’s Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program learn through shared, hands-on experiences. Research combines with evidence-based clinical practice, and the curriculum features strong multicultural elements. The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of ASHA fully accredits this program.

Admission requirements

Applicants must have:

• 0 minimum GPA (overall and prerequisites)
• Bachelor’s degree with required prerequisite coursework
• Personal interview to assess spoken English skills and professional qualities
• Three letters of recommendation
• 25 observation hours with ASHA-certified SLPs
• Written essay that shows graduate-level writing competence

Program duration and credits

Students complete six semesters of didactic and clinical coursework. The university evaluates transfers individually and allows up to 6 transferable credits.

Tuition and costs

Each credit hour costs $1,315. Full-time students pay an additional $580 fee, while part-time students pay $80.

Clinical practicum details

Faculty members work with students on clinical projects and community research. Clinical experiences help students prepare for ground practice in a variety of populations.

Licensure preparation

Students meet requirements for national certification and state licensure. The program readies them completely for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence.

Choose the Right Florida SLP for Your Future

Making the right choice for your SLP program definitely needs you to think over multiple factors that align with your career goals and specific needs. This piece walks you through nine exceptional speech-language pathology programs in Florida. Each program offers its own unique strengths and opportunities. You’ll find various pathways to become a qualified speech-language pathologist through traditional campus-based learning or flexible distance education options.

These institutions maintain competitive admission standards. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.5. Clinical experience serves as the foundation of every program and ensures you graduate with hands-on skills needed for professional practice. Students need 375-400 clinical hours at minimum, though many end up completing more hours.

You can complete these programs in five to nine semesters based on full-time or part-time enrollment. This means your completion timeline ranges from two to three years depending on your chosen structure. Tuition costs vary between in-state and out-of-state options. Financial aid is accessible to more people, with over 90% of students getting some form of assistance.

The best part? These accredited programs deliver excellent outcomes. Many boast 100% pass rates on the Praxis examination, which shows how well they prepare graduates for professional licensure and successful careers. Looking beyond rankings helps you find your best fit. Geographic location, specialized focus areas, clinical opportunities, and cost all play vital roles in this decision.

The speech-language pathology field grows faster than ever. Industry projections show 25-33% growth over the next decade. Graduates from these Florida programs step into a robust job market with median salaries ranging from $80,000-$89,000. This detailed information gives you everything needed to make a smart choice about your SLP education in the Sunshine State.