7 Best Speech Pathology Masters Programs in Indiana (2025-2026 Guide)

Interested in speech pathology masters programs in Indiana? You’re entering a field that offers exceptional growth potential and impressive earning prospects. The speech therapy profession shows promising growth with an 18% increase expected from 2023 to 2033, which translates to 33,300 new jobs nationwide.

The state of Indiana features eight programs with American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) accreditation. Students can pursue their Master’s degree in speech-language pathology at five locations: Bloomington, Muncie, Notre Dame, Terre Haute, and West Lafayette. These programs boast impressive outcomes – 95% of students graduate on schedule, and their Praxis exam scores consistently exceed the required 184-point threshold.

The career outlook after graduation appears bright. Speech-Language Pathology Assistants earn $43,490 on average per year, while licensed Speech Therapists can expect annual earnings around $92,800. These graduate programs prepare students for ASHA’s National Examination and state licensure requirements. Graduates find opportunities in schools, hospitals, and private practices.

This guide explores the seven best speech pathology masters programs in Indiana that will help shape your educational journey effectively.

Indiana University Bloomington – MA in Speech-Language Pathology

Indiana University Bloomington ranks among the best schools for future speech-language pathologists who want advanced education. The MA in Speech-Language Pathology program blends tough academic work with hands-on clinical practice to help students excel in this growing healthcare field.

Program Overview

Students can finish the Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology at IU Bloomington in two years. The schedule runs through fall, spring, summer, and fall semesters. Students spend their final spring semester doing off-campus clinical externships. Students with degrees outside speech and hearing sciences might need extra time based on prerequisites.

The program’s high national ranking makes it stand out. The department ranks in the top 20 nationally according to U.S. News & World Report and The Chronicle of Higher Education. Students interested in helping diverse populations can choose a special Bilingual Track (Spanish-English) in Speech-Language Pathology.

Students must complete at least 52 credit hours to graduate. This well-laid-out curriculum exposes them to every aspect of speech-language pathology. Graduates leave ready to tackle various challenges in clinical practice.

Accreditation

The Council on Academic Accreditation of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) has given the program full accreditation. This recognition lasts until 2033, with the next review coming up in August 2032. ASHA’s stamp of approval shows the program meets national standards and lets graduates pursue ASHA certification.

Clinical Training

IU Bloomington’s clinical education gives students access to modern facilities, clinical labs, and research centers focused on speech and hearing sciences. Students get ground experience through partnerships with local healthcare providers and schools, which helps them put theory into practice.

The department’s in-house clinics let students work under faculty supervision to apply research-based practices. This hands-on approach has led to great results – every MA graduate finds employment.

Cost & Financial Aid

Tuition costs are roughly $11,090 per academic year for an in-state graduate student, and $30,792 for an out-of-state student. Graduate students pay by credit hour, and eight hours counts as full-time.

Money matters:

• 79% of students get financial aid
• Top students can get Assistant Instructorships (AI funds)
• AI positions usually cover tuition and give first-year stipends
• More funding options exist for students who know American Sign Language or join the bilingual Spanish-English track

Students who apply by January 1 automatically get considered for these funding options.

Admission Requirements

Getting into this speech pathologist education program takes hard work. Recent numbers tell the story:

• Applications (2023-2024): 213
• Admitted students: 113
• Average GPA of admitted students: 3.88
• Enrolled students: 38

Students need:

1. A bachelor’s degree with at least 3.0 GPA (admitted students average 3.8)
2. These undergraduate courses:
   • Speech Anatomy and Physiology
   • Child Language Development
   • Phonetics (including IPA transcription)
   • Acoustics or Speech Science
   • Audiology or Hearing Science

US students must apply by January 1, while international students need to apply by December 1. Applications go through both the Communication Sciences and Disorders Centralized Application Service (CSDCAS) and Indiana University’s system. GRE scores aren’t needed.

Career Outcomes

The program’s graduates achieve remarkable success. Numbers paint a clear picture:

These numbers show how well the program prepares speech-language pathologists.

Graduates work in states like Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, New York, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, Washington, Texas, and Nebraska. This spread shows the program’s national reputation and degree value.

The program’s strong clinical preparation and academic standards help graduates succeed in hospitals, schools, private practices, and research institutions.

Ball State University – MA in Speech-Language Pathology

Ball State University’s MA in Speech-Language Pathology program gives students everything they need for successful careers in healthcare and educational settings of all types. The program’s strong clinical focus and detailed curriculum makes it one of Indiana’s top choices for aspiring speech-language pathologists.

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology at Ball State needs 56 credit hours. Students learn both academic knowledge and get hands-on clinical experience. Students with speech and hearing backgrounds usually finish in six consecutive semesters. Those with degrees in other fields might take eight to nine semesters, based on their previous coursework.

The curriculum covers essential areas including:

• Child language development and disorders
• Speech sound disorders
• Neurogenic disorders
• Voice and resonance disorders
• Augmentative and alternative communication
• Dysphagia (swallowing disorders)

Ball State’s program stands out because of its strong clinical orientation with close supervision—a vital part of student training. Graduates show knowledge and skills that line up with the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) Standards IV-A through IV-H and V-A through V-F.

Accreditation

Ball State University’s Master of Arts program in speech-language pathology has full accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) in Audiology and Speech-Language-Hearing Association. This prestigious status runs through 2033, with the next review set for February 2032. Such recognition will give a solid foundation that meets national standards, helping graduates get their certification and licensure.

Clinical Training

Students are a great way to get hands-on experience at the Ball State University Speech Pathology and Audiology Clinics. They work with actual patients while faculty members guide them. These opportunities let students use their classroom knowledge in real-life settings as they help people with various communication disorders.

Students get enough clinical practicum hours to meet ASHA requirements. This mix of studies and practical work helps graduates excel at assessing, diagnosing, and treating communication disorders throughout life.

Cost & Financial Aid

Ball State University keeps its tuition rates competitive with other Midwest schools. Program costs change yearly, but students have several ways to get financial support:

• Special scholarships for speech pathology and audiology students
• Graduate assistantships that help cover education costs while providing professional experience
• Four assistantships in the speech-language pathology program, given based on grades and recommendations
• Extra assistantships might be available elsewhere on campus
• Financial aid through Ball State’s Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships

Students should submit their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by April 15 each year to be considered for aid.

Admission Requirements

Ball State’s speech pathology masters program carefully selects its students. Recent numbers show:

Students must meet requirements from both the Graduate School and the Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology:

• Bachelor’s degree transcripts (3.0 GPA or higher preferred)
• Three recommendation letters
• Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores
• Letter of intent

Students can apply by January 15 for fall, October 1 for spring, and January 15 for summer admission.

Career Outcomes

Ball State’s speech language pathology graduates find success in many career paths. The latest group had 38 full-time graduates. They work in various places:

• Schools and educational institutions
• Hospitals and medical centers
• Private practices
• Rehabilitation centers
• Long-term care facilities

A newer study, published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows job growth by a lot more than the national average. They expect 25,900 new jobs between 2016 and 2026. Speech-language pathology and audiology rank among the 100 Best Jobs and Best Health Care Jobs in U.S. News and World Report (2021).

Ball State’s quality education, practical learning, and high job placement rates help graduates succeed in this growing healthcare field. They qualify for Indiana state licensure and the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.

Purdue University – MS in Speech-Language Pathology

Purdue University’s Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program stands out with its outstanding clinical education and research opportunities. Students learn to deliver independent clinical services to people of all ages that meet professional standards.

Program Overview

Purdue’s MS-SLP program prepares graduates to meet every academic, clinical certification, licensure, and credentialing requirement from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), the Indiana Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Board, and the Indiana Department of Education. The program offers a well-laid-out structure with 36 credit hours of coursework.

Students can choose between:

• Clinical thesis track
• Clinical non-thesis track
• Non-clinical degree options

The program has clinical practicum courses throughout, with clinical seminar (1 credit/semester) getting letter grades and clinical practicum courses evaluated on a Pass/No Pass basis. Students must finish externships worth 12 credits and take at least 13 credits from specialty courses.

Accreditation

The Master of Science education program in speech-language pathology at Purdue University is fully accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language-Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. This accreditation will give a solid foundation that meets national standards for speech-language pathology education and qualifies graduates to pursue ASHA certification.

Clinical Training

Clinical education is a big component of Purdue’s speech pathologist education. Students work directly with clinical faculty members in the M.D. Steer Speech, Language and Swallowing Clinics. They diagnose, assess, and treat communication and swallowing disorders.

Students gain every skill needed to become licensed, certified speech-language pathologists throughout the program. This ground application of theoretical knowledge in clinical settings prepares them for their professional practice challenges.

Cost & Financial Aid

The MS-SLP program at Purdue has these costs per semester for 2024-2025:

Books and materials cost about $700 annually, transportation runs $390, and miscellaneous expenses total $2,500.

The 2025-2026 academic year estimates on-campus housing and food at $13,720. Students who live with parents and commute receive a lower allowance.

Admission Requirements

The program’s competitive admission process requires:

• A minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA from your most recent degree
• Applications through Purdue’s graduate system and the Communication Sciences and Disorders Centralized Application Service (CSDCAS)
• Three recommendation letters
• A CV or resume showing your leadership, collaboration, critical thinking, and community advocacy experience
• A personal interview after initial application review

You need prerequisite courses in:

• Phonetics
• Child language development
• Speech anatomy and physiology
• Acoustics
• At least one upper-level course on speech/language disorders

The program also needs courses in neuroanatomy/neurophysiology, audiological assessment, aural rehabilitation, biological science, physical science, social/behavioral science, and statistics. Students missing one or two areas must complete them before spring ends in their first year.

Applications close January 15.

Career Outcomes

Purdue’s speech language pathology graduate programs show remarkable success:

*Employed in the profession or pursuing further education within one year of graduation.

These numbers showcase how well the program prepares students for speech-language pathology careers. Purdue’s strong reputation and thorough preparation help graduates land positions in schools, hospitals, private practices, and research institutions.

Indiana State University – MS in Speech-Language Pathology

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at Indiana State University puts practical experience and clinical skills first. Students learn to excel in this growing healthcare field. The program runs from the Terre Haute campus and brings students together in groups. This approach helps build professional relationships that last long after graduation.

Program Overview

The speech pathology masters program at Indiana State needs at least 69 credits. Students learn to diagnose and treat many communication disorders. The program combines challenging coursework with hands-on clinical practice. Graduates get the skills they need to help people with speech, language, and swallowing disorders.

The program readies students to work in settings of all types, such as:

• Schools and educational institutions
• Hospitals and healthcare facilities
• Rehabilitation centers
• Skilled nursing facilities
• Private practices

Small class sizes let students work closely with experienced faculty members. This creates a supportive environment throughout the six-semester program.

Accreditation

Indiana State University has earned accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission through 2030-31. The MS in Speech-Language Pathology program also holds full accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association until May 31, 2025. These credentials show the program meets national standards and prepares graduates for certification and licensure.

Clinical Training

Hands-on clinical experience is the basis of speech pathologist education at Indiana State. Students train at the Norma and William Grosjean Clinic, home to the Rowe Center for Communicative Disorders (RCCD).

Students help treat various communication disorders at this facility:

• Articulation difficulties
• Language disorders
• Hearing impairments
• Aphasia
• Cognitive skills deficits
• Fluency issues
• Motor speech disorders
• Voice disorders

Students apply their classroom knowledge during clinical practice under faculty guidance.

Cost & Financial Aid

Indiana State University gives graduate students several ways to fund their education:

• Graduate assistantships in the department or across campus
• Scholarship awards that cover tuition and fees for nine credits (except building and student service fees)
• Federal work-study jobs paying $8.40 per hour or more

About 76% of full-time freshmen and 80% of full-time students get scholarships and grants. The university gives out roughly $16 million in scholarship awards yearly. This shows their steadfast dedication to making education available.

Admission Requirements

The program looks at several factors when choosing students:

• Written responses to prompts/questions
• Video interview
• Performance in undergraduate communication disorders courses
• Overall undergraduate GPA (3.0 minimum expected)
• Post-graduate coursework grades
• Letters of recommendation

Students can apply for fall enrollment until May 1. If you don’t have an undergraduate degree in communication disorders, you’ll need to finish prerequisite courses before starting.

Each new group stays around 20-22 students to maintain quality teaching.

Career Outcomes

Indiana State’s speech language pathology graduates find great career opportunities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects jobs in this field to grow by 18% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than average.

The program boasts a 95% job placement rate. Graduates work in schools, hospitals, public health departments, clinics, early intervention agencies, rehabilitation facilities, extended care facilities, private practices, government offices, and research agencies.

After graduating, clinicians typically complete a nine-month Clinical Fellowship with professional mentoring. This helps them use their academic knowledge while improving their clinical skills.

Saint Mary’s College – MS in Speech-Language Pathology

Saint Mary’s College in Notre Dame, Indiana gives aspiring speech-language pathologists an intimate and focused graduate experience. This women’s college creates a supportive environment with small classes and individual attention. Students develop advanced clinical skills and build a strong theoretical foundation.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program takes 5 semesters to complete, including one summer term. Students can finish their degree in about two years. The program combines classroom learning with extensive clinical practice. Students learn to help people of all ages who have communication and swallowing disorders.

The program focuses on evidence-based practice and critical thinking. Students get these benefits:

• Small groups that build close relationships with faculty
• Chances to work with nursing and other health students
• Special courses in autism spectrum disorders and literacy

So graduates gain detailed knowledge in every aspect of speech-language pathology, from assessment to treatment.

Accreditation

Saint Mary’s College’s MS in Speech-Language Pathology program has accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. This recognition means the program meets national standards and prepares graduates for certification and licensure.

Clinical Training

Saint Mary’s puts hands-on experience at the heart of speech pathologist education. Students train at the on-campus Judd Leighton Speech and Language Clinic. They provide evaluation and treatment services to community members while faculty supervise their work.

Students start with close supervision and move toward independent practice during off-campus externships. These placements happen in schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private practices. Students work with different patient groups and learn about various disorders.

Cost & Financial Aid

A speech language pathology graduate degree is a major financial investment. Saint Mary’s helps students manage costs through several funding options:

Students should apply early for financial aid to get the most support possible.

Admission Requirements

The program looks for qualified candidates who have:

• Bachelor’s degree (Communication Sciences and Disorders preferred)
• Minimum 3.0 GPA (competitive applicants typically higher)
• GRE scores
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal statement
• Interview (for selected candidates)

Students who don’t have a communication disorders background need to complete prerequisite courses before starting the program.

Career Outcomes

Graduates find success in many different settings. The program’s track record shows:

• High first-time pass rates on the Praxis examination
• Strong employment rates within one year of graduation
• Graduates working in schools, medical facilities, private practices, and research institutions

The program prepares students for their first job and builds a foundation for long-term career growth.

Purdue University Fort Wayne – MS in Speech-Language Pathology

Purdue University Fort Wayne offers a tailored approach to graduate education through its MS in Speech-Language Pathology program. Small cohort sizes allow faculty members to know each student personally and provide individual attention.

Program Overview

The MS in Speech-Language Pathology program at Purdue Fort Wayne takes two years to complete. Students go through six semesters of full-time study that combines coursework with clinical experiences. The program helps students build detailed knowledge about assessing and treating speech, language, and swallowing disorders at every life stage. Students move through their required courses together as a cohort, following a set sequence. Each semester emphasizes knowledge integration through critical thinking courses.

Accreditation

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has fully accredited this program. Students who graduate meet national standards for speech-language pathology education and qualify for certification.

Clinical Training

Students begin their clinical experiences at the on-campus Communication Disorders Clinic during their first year. Their second year includes off-campus externships – one in healthcare and another in a school setting. Strategic collaborations with organizations like GiGi’s Playhouse and Early Childhood Alliance give students practical experience in different environments.

Cost & Financial Aid

Tuition rates for 2025-2026 graduate students are:

Program-specific differential fees might apply.

Admission Requirements

Students must submit applications by January 15. The program requires:

• Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
• Completion of prerequisite coursework
• Virtual interview as part of the admission process
• Background check for accepted students

Applicants need to submit through both CSDCAS and Purdue University systems.

Career Outcomes

The program’s success speaks through its numbers. Between 2022-2025, 98% of students completed their degrees on time. Graduates achieved a 92% average pass rate on the Praxis examination in Speech-Language Pathology in the last three years. These results show how well the program prepares students for careers in clinical settings of all types.

Trine University – MS in Speech-Language Pathology

Trine University brings its MS in Speech-Language Pathology program to Fort Wayne’s education center, located on the Parkview Hospital Randallia campus. This program marks the newest addition to Indiana’s speech pathology education options.

Program Overview

The 53-credit hour program equips professionals with skills to help people who have communication and swallowing difficulties. Students learn through hands-on clinical training and evidence-based practices. The program takes two years to complete with one summer semester. Graduates leave with strong knowledge and proven methodologies that lead to success.

Accreditation

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology has granted the MS-SLP program Candidate for Accreditation status. This “preaccreditation” status runs from May 1, 2022, through April 30, 2027.

Clinical Training

The university’s Speech-Language Clinic gives students practical experience through practicums. Local community members receive free speech-language evaluation and therapy. Students accumulate 375 supervised clinical clock hours needed for ASHA certification during these hands-on experiences.

Cost & Financial Aid

Students pay $650 per credit hour (2022-2023). The good news is that 99% of students get some type of financial aid. The Questa Foundation and AWS Foundation help students with forgivable loans up to $20,000. These loans benefit students who choose to work in northeast Indiana public schools after graduating.

Admission Requirements

Students need a completed bachelor’s degree that meets minimum GPA requirements. The program takes a comprehensive look at each applicant by reviewing academic performance and relevant experience.

Career Outcomes

The job outlook for Trine graduates looks excellent. The placement rate in the last 12 years stands at 99%. Graduates find rewarding careers in hospitals, schools, and private practices.

Get Your Indiana SLP Master’s Today

Your professional success depends on picking the right speech pathology master’s program. In this piece, we looked at seven outstanding programs in Indiana that offer unique strengths and meet ASHA’s rigorous accreditation standards. These programs show remarkable results – most have 95-100% completion rates, almost perfect Praxis exam scores, and strong job placement numbers.

Speech-language pathology is definitely a growing field that offers great career stability. An 18% growth rate predicted through 2033 means your skills will be in high demand at schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private practices of all sizes. The field’s salary potential ranges from $43,490 for assistants to $92,800 for licensed therapists, making it a financially rewarding career choice.

Programs have competitive admission standards, but many financial aid options make quality education available at different tuition levels. Each program combines hands-on clinical training with detailed academic coursework to prepare you for real-life practice.

You can choose Indiana University Bloomington’s nationally ranked program, Ball State’s clinically-focused curriculum, or any other program featured here. Your education will qualify you for ASHA certification and state licensure. A master’s in speech pathology from these Indiana schools will give you the knowledge, skills, and credentials to make a real difference in people’s lives who have communication disorders.