13 Best Speech Pathology Programs in New York

Want to study speech pathology in New York? You’re in the right place! New York state has 30 CAA-ASHA accredited programs that are a great way to get quality education for aspiring speech-language pathologists.

The state offers 26 master’s degrees in speech-language pathology and four doctoral programs in audiology. New York City leads the pack as the state’s main center for SLP education, with more schools than any other city in the state. The programs show impressive results – almost 95% of students finish their studies within two years, and more than 90% land jobs within their first year after graduating.

The job market looks bright too. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts speech pathology careers will grow by 15% between 2024 and 2034, which is much faster than average. Speech-language pathologists earned a median income of about $95,410 in 2024, making it both an achieving career and a well-paying profession.

This list will help guide you through your options, whether you’re looking at the many speech pathology master’s programs across the state or focusing on SLP masters programs in NYC. We’ve put together detailed information about the 13 best speech language pathology programs New York offers, from program details to what you need to apply.

1. New York University (NYU) – Steinhardt

NYU Steinhardt runs one of the best speech pathology programs in New York through its Department of Communicative Sciences and Disorders. The program’s location in Manhattan makes it unique with its complete curriculum and flexible study options.

Program Overview

NYU Steinhardt’s MS in Communicative Sciences and Disorders helps students become licensed speech-language pathologists. Students can choose between online and on-campus learning paths. The ASHA-accredited program combines evidence-based methods with hands-on clinical training. Students learn about prevention, assessment, and intervention strategies to help people with communication and swallowing disorders.

The curriculum covers key areas like biological sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, and social sciences. Students learn the human communication process, its biological and neurological foundations, and communication disorders that affect people of all ages.

Students who want to work with multilingual populations can take the Bilingual Extension Track (BET). This track teaches specialized skills to work with bilingual and multilingual clients with disabilities. Research-minded students can write a master’s thesis with faculty guidance.

Program Length and Credits

Students need 48 graduate-level credits to graduate and can study full-time or part-time. Full-time students without foundation courses can finish in six terms. Students new to communicative sciences might need seven foundation courses (14 extra credits) before starting graduate coursework.

Foundation courses include:

• Anatomy and Physiology of Speech and Swallow Mechanism
• Neurological Bases of Cognition, Behavior, and Communication
• Phonetics
• Science of Language
• Speech and Language Development and Disorders

Classes run through Fall, Spring, and Summer terms, creating an immersive learning experience. Students take a Master of Science Student Seminar each term alongside core courses, clinical practicums, and field placements.

Admission Requirements

The program accepts applications on a rolling basis with start dates in January and September. NYU Steinhardt looks at each application as a whole and recommends a 3.0 undergraduate GPA or 3.2 GPA in previous communicative sciences courses.

Since November 2021, GRE scores are no longer required. You’ll need to submit:

• A personal statement about your goals and motivation
• Your current resume/CV
• Transcripts from all colleges and universities
• Two academic recommendation letters
• A $75 non-refundable application fee

International students must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores if English isn’t their first language and they haven’t completed a four-year US degree in English. To summarize, applicants must be US citizens or permanent residents and live in the United States during the program.

2. Columbia University

Teachers College at Columbia University runs a top-ranked speech language pathology program in New York. The program ranks #21 nationally for Speech-Language Pathology according to U.S. News & World Report. Students get complete training to become speech-language pathologists through several certification paths.

Program Overview

The Council on Academic Accreditation of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association fully accredits Columbia’s master’s program in Communication Sciences and Disorders. Students who graduate can get their New York State license in speech and language pathology. The program readies students to work in schools, community centers, rehab facilities, hospital clinics, private practices, and government agencies.

Students can choose from these degree options:

• Master of Science with original certification (55 credits)
• Master of Science with original certification and bilingual extension (58 credits)
• Master of Science with professional certification (55 credits)
• Master of Science without certification (55 credits)

Columbia’s Bilingual Extension Institute stands out by offering advanced training to speech-language pathologists who work with bilingual patients. Students need just one extra course beyond their regular master’s curriculum.

Program Length and Credits

Students need 55 credits and two full years to finish the program. The timeline covers fall, spring, and summer of year one, plus fall and spring of year two. Most students finish within two calendar years, which means four semesters and one summer session of full-time study.

Columbia helps students without prerequisites through an online intensive program from May through August. This lets students start their master’s program on time, even without prior coursework.

Admission Requirements

Students must complete these five prerequisite courses before starting:

• Anatomy and Physiology of the Speech and Hearing Mechanism
• Audiology
• Language Development/Acquisition
• Phonetics
• Speech Science

The program’s admission process is selective. A newer study shows the program received 317 applications and offered admission to 155 students. Admitted students’ GPAs usually range from 3.01 to 4.08. Students need to submit two recommendation letters, transcripts, English proficiency exam (if needed), statement of purpose, and resume.

3. Syracuse University

Syracuse University runs a nationally ranked and accredited speech language pathology program in New York that builds on its rich history of excellence. Students get comprehensive training through a blend of academic study, clinical practice, and research.

Program Overview

The Master of Science education program in speech-language pathology at Syracuse University has earned accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech Language-Hearing Association. The program’s graduates meet all course and practicum requirements for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence and New York State licensure. Students can also qualify for certification as Teachers of Students with Speech-Language Disabilities (TSSLD) in New York State.

Students work with researchers in cutting-edge laboratories and learn from certified speech-language pathologists who specialize in all aspects of speech and language development from birth through adulthood. Research-focused students can choose the Ph.D. track that emphasizes basic and applied science.

Program Length and Credits

Students with a communication sciences background can complete the master’s program in four academic semesters plus one summer (five terms total). Students from other academic backgrounds need two additional semesters (seven terms total).

The master’s degree requires 46 to 53 credits for students with communication disorders backgrounds. Students pursuing a Ph.D. must complete a minimum of 83 credits beyond their bachelor’s degree.

Admission Requirements

The program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, but competitive applicants typically have 3.4 or higher. Candidates need to submit:

• Undergraduate transcripts
• Personal essays that address specific research findings and cultural humility
• Three letters of recommendation

The Admissions Committee looks favorably on MS SLP applicants who submit optional GRE scores. International students must achieve TOEFL scores of 105 or higher on the iBT or IELTS scores of 7.5 or above. This requirement doesn’t apply to students from English-speaking Canadian schools, the UK, Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand.

Priority review goes to applications received by February 1, though the program accepts submissions until all spots are filled.

4. Hofstra University

Hofstra University sits on Long Island and offers a complete speech pathology program that blends hands-on clinical experience with strong academic coursework.

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology program at Hofstra helps students become professional clinicians who can assess and treat communication and swallowing disorders in patients of all ages. The program has accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language-Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Students learn about communication processes, disorders, assessment methods, and treatment techniques.

Hofstra gives you two program choices:

• Option 1: MA in Speech-Language Pathology (52 credits)
• Option 2: MA in Speech-Language Pathology with Teacher Certification as Teacher of Students with Speech and Language Disabilities (TSSLD) (57 credits)

The program’s cornerstone is its clinical experience at the Joan and Arnold Saltzman Community Services Center’s Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic. Certified audiologists and speech-language pathologists supervise students during clinical rotations. Students also work in educational, pediatric, and adult settings to build skills with patients of all types.

Program Length and Credits

The full-time MA program takes two years to complete, including two winter sessions and one summer session. Students in Option 1 need to finish 52 semester hours of graduate work. Option 2 students take an extra 5 semester hours, bringing their total to 57 credits.

Students must log 25 hours of supervised clinical observation before they can register for graduate clinical practica. The program requires a minimum of 375 clinical contact hours at the graduate level.

Admission Requirements

The program accepts new students only in fall semester, and applications must reach by January 15th. You’ll need:

• Bachelor’s in Communication Sciences and Disorders or appropriate prerequisite coursework
• Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0
• Three academic (faculty) letters from the undergraduate program
• Personal statement of no more than 500 words

Accepted students must pay a non-refundable $500 tuition deposit that goes toward their tuition. The deadline to accept or reject admission offers is April 15th.

5. Hunter College (CUNY)

Hunter College, part of the CUNY system, offers an affordable speech language pathology program in New York with high academic standards. Students get excellent preparation at this public institution to become speech-language pathologists in an urban environment.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at Hunter College prepares students to work in hospitals, healthcare agencies, specialized clinical settings, and private practices. The 68-credit curriculum gives you the tools to meet ASHA certification requirements, New York State licensure, and NY State certification as a Teacher of Students with Speech and Language Disabilities (TSSLD). The program earned its accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and continues to maintain excellence.

Students need to complete several post-graduation requirements. These include a clinical fellowship year and passing the PRAXIS examination. Students pursuing TSSLD certification must pass the New York State Teacher Certification Examinations and finish the Dignity For All Students Act workshop. Future students should note a $500 per semester Academic Excellence Fee for all admissions starting Fall 2024.

Program Length and Credits

The 68-credit curriculum follows a “locked” sequence, which means students can’t study part-time and must take courses in a specific order. Full-time students complete 6 semesters, usually finishing in two academic years (fall, spring, summer, fall, spring). The first year consists of daytime classes and clinics. Second-year students attend daytime practicum and take classes in late afternoon and evening.

Admission Requirements

The competitive program requires:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0
• GRE General Test scores (50th percentile or better recommended)
• Two letters of recommendation
• 500-word statement of purpose describing objectives
• 15 credits of communication sciences prerequisites with minimum A- average

Students must submit applications by February 1, and decisions come out around April 15. Thanks to a nationwide agreement with CAPCSD, accepted students have until April 15 to make their decision.

6. Brooklyn College (CUNY)

Brooklyn College’s speech language pathology program is an outstanding CUNY option that features modern facilities and rich clinical opportunities. The program prepares graduates to work in community centers, hospitals, schools, and private practices of all types.

Program Overview

Brooklyn College’s Department of Communication Arts, Sciences, and Disorders offers the Master of Science in speech-language pathology. The program is fully accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Students get valuable academic, clinical, and research opportunities in modern classrooms, clinical suites, and laboratories while studying disorders that occur throughout life.

The program offers two distinct paths:

• Option A: Standard master’s degree in speech-language pathology
• Option B: Master’s degree with specialization in early intervention

Students must pass a departmental comprehensive examination and take the Praxis Examination in Speech-Language Pathology. The program prepares graduates to meet all requirements for professional certification and state licensure.

Program Length and Credits

The standard program (Option A) needs 59 to 71 credits and 400 hours of clinical practicum. Option B with early intervention specialization requires 64 to 78 credits. Most students attend full-time, though some choose part-time studies.

Admission Requirements

The program accepts applications only for fall admission with a February 1 deadline. Competition is strong – in a recent cycle, 197 students applied and 71 received admission offers. Successful applicants typically have GPAs between 3.52 and 4.00.

Essential requirements include:

• Completion of at least five prerequisite courses before applying
• All six prerequisite courses and ASHA coursework finished before fall admission
• Two letters of recommendation (one must be academic)
• Personal statement (two-page maximum)
• Current résumé
• GRE scores – admitted students average: Verbal 150, Quantitative 148, and Analytical Writing 4.0

The program invites selected applicants for an interview as part of the evaluation process.

7. Adelphi University

Adelphi University is among the first ASHA-accredited speech-language pathology programs in the greater NYC area. The university offers an excellent speech pathology program that emphasizes clinical excellence and diversity.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Communication Disorders: Speech-Language Pathology at Adelphi prepares students for successful professional careers through a research-based clinical approach. The program aims to develop ethical clinicians who can assess and treat communication disorders in a variety of cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Students get hands-on experience at the on-campus Hy Weinberg Center for Communication Disorders. The program’s strategic collaborations create excellent employment and internship opportunities. Students become eligible for professional certification after they pass a departmental complete examination.

Program Length and Credits

Students need 63 credits to complete the full-time master’s program. Most students complete the program in 18-24 months. Classes take place on weekdays at the Garden City campus following a well-laid-out format. Students start with clinical seminars and on-campus placements in Garden City and later move to two off-campus placements. Students without proper prerequisites must complete 18 credits in undergraduate courses first.

Admission Requirements

Applications must reach by February 15. Students need:

• Bachelor’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA
• Two letters of recommendation
• Personal essay
• Resume
• Completion of at least four graded prerequisite courses

International students must show English language proficiency through TOEFL scores. Students without communication disorders backgrounds should complete prerequisite courses at Adelphi if possible.

8. Ithaca College

Ithaca College offers a program that combines in-person and online learning options to fit students’ diverse needs.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program at Ithaca College holds accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation through January 2027. Students benefit from modern facilities that include six therapy rooms, a digitally-equipped diagnostic room, and specialized labs. The program prepares graduates to earn ASHA certification, New York State licensure, and optional teacher certification. Students achieve impressive Praxis examination pass rates between 93-100%, and Ithaca graduates find employment quickly within their first year.

Program Length and Credits

Students must complete at least 53 credits over five semesters for the full-time in-person program. Those who choose to write a thesis need one extra semester and five additional credits, bringing the total to 58. The online program runs part-time for eight semesters (2.7 years). Students without the right background must take three more semesters of prerequisites, which extends the online program to 11 semesters (3.7 years). Both program formats require students to complete 400 hours of supervised clinical experience.

Admission Requirements

The program requires applicants to have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Ithaca’s current undergraduates who maintain at least a 3.6 GPA qualify automatically for admission. All applications go through CSDCAS. The program has no GRE requirement. While students should complete 25 observation hours before starting, they can finish these hours during their first semester if needed.

9. Nazareth College

Nazareth College distinguishes itself among speech language pathology programs in New York by preparing students to work effectively as ethical professionals in a variety of communities.

Program Overview

The Master of Science program in Speech-Language Pathology at Nazareth College maintains accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology. Graduates qualify for ASHA certification, New York State professional license, and Teacher of Students with Speech and Language Disabilities certification. Students gain practical experience at the on-campus Speech/Hearing Clinic, where they help clients with speech, language, and hearing disorders. Students interested in neurological disorders can pursue additional opportunities through the Brain Injury Clinics.

Program Length and Credits

Nazareth provides two educational paths:

• Traditional program: Minimum 42 academic credits plus 9 clinical credits (51 total), perfect for students with communication sciences backgrounds
• Extended program: Students from other majors can complete additional foundational undergraduate courses

Students finish the traditional program in 5-6 semesters when studying full-time, while the extended program requires 6-8 semesters.

Admission Requirements

Candidates should meet these requirements:

• 0 minimum cumulative GPA (undergraduate) and “B” average in major
• Official GRE scores
• Two letters of recommendation
• Professional statement
• Application deadline: February 1 for fall term

10. St. John’s University

St. John’s University offers a speech pathology program at its Queens campus. The program emphasizes Vincentian principles that promote socially responsible practitioners who serve people from different backgrounds.

Program Overview

St. John’s University’s Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology has earned accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology through 2027. The program’s graduates qualify for ASHA certification, New York State licensure, and the Teaching Students with Speech and Language Disabilities (TSSLD) credential. Students receive practical experience at the university’s Speech and Hearing Center and complete externships at hospitals, schools, and rehabilitation centers. Students interested in bilingual specialization can pursue the Bilingual Extension, which requires 9 additional credits beyond the standard program.

Program Length and Credits

Students must complete 54 credits to graduate. The full-time program takes two years to complete, spanning five consecutive semesters including mandatory summers. Part-time students can finish in three years, taking eight consecutive semesters. The program’s lock-step curriculum design requires students to take courses in a specific sequence. The Bilingual Extension pathway requires 63 total credits.

Admission Requirements

The program requires applicants to maintain a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. Candidates must submit two recommendation letters, write a 300-word statement, and complete prerequisite coursework (15-18 credits) in phonetics, anatomy and physiology of speech, language acquisition, and hearing science. The program has made GRE scores optional. International students need to achieve minimum TOEFL scores of 80 (IBT) or IELTS scores of 6.5.

11. SUNY Buffalo State

SUNY Buffalo State offers a 50-year-old SLP program in New York that provides both undergraduate and graduate paths for aspiring professionals.

Program Overview

The Council on Academic Accreditation of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has fully accredited Buffalo State’s Speech-Language Pathology program through 2031. Students learn fundamental concepts of speech, language, and hearing acquisition in the undergraduate program. This program introduces them to communication sciences and disorders. The master’s program equips graduates with three crucial credentials: New York State teaching certification (TSSLD), New York State licensure, and ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence. The program’s on-campus Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic provides students hands-on clinical experience with clients ranging from 2 to 80+ years.

Program Length and Credits

Students must complete 120 total credit hours for the undergraduate degree, with 52 credit hours dedicated to speech-language pathology major requirements. The master’s program requires 60 credits and follows a full-time structure that students typically finish in two years. A summer clinical practicum is mandatory. Students get valuable experience through clinical placements at hospitals, rehabilitation centers, school districts, and private clinics.

Admission Requirements

Freshmen can directly apply to the undergraduate program, while transfer students must maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA. The master’s program requires applicants to have a minimum 3.0 overall GPA and 3.0 in their major. The graduate program accepts applications until January 15 for fall admission only.

12. Yeshiva University – Katz School

The Katz School at Yeshiva University stands out with its medically-focused speech pathology program in New York City. This program is among the few nationwide that specializes in medical aspects of speech-language pathology.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology takes a comprehensive approach to treating and diagnosing communication disorders at every life stage. Students get hands-on clinical experience each semester while working under faculty supervision. Graduates can apply for ASHA certification and New York State licensure. The program’s flexibility shines through its three study options: full-time on-campus, full-time online, or part-time online. Students work with advanced technologies like endoscopy, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound to diagnose voice, speech, and swallowing disorders.

Program Length and Credits

Students must complete 55 credit hours. Full-time students finish in five semesters (about 20 months), while part-time students in the online program need eight semesters. The program includes 400 hours of hands-on practical experience. Full-time students who start in fall (August/September) typically graduate in spring of their second year (May).

Admission Requirements

Students need a cumulative GPA of 3.0 from their last earned degree. The program requires completion of specific prerequisite courses:

• Anatomy & Physiology of Speech
• Speech Science
• Hearing Science
• Introduction to Speech-Language Pathology
• Phonetics
• Statistics, Chemistry or Physics
• Biology and Social/Behavioral Science

Prerequisites require a grade of ‘C’ or better. GRE scores help but aren’t mandatory. International students must show English proficiency with a minimum TOEFL score of 100.

13. Pace University

Pace University’s speech language pathology program in New York City welcomes students to a vibrant multicultural setting. Students experience exceptional learning right in Manhattan’s heart.

Program Overview

Pace University’s Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders holds accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of ASHA. Students learn hands-on at the university’s Speech and Hearing Center. The center features modern facilities with an audiology test suite, a tech-rich speech lab, and telehealth “Zoom Rooms” for remote practice. Students who graduate qualify for ASHA certification and are well-prepared for the PRAXIS examination in speech-language pathology. Licensed and certified speech-language pathologists guide students through practical skills development. Graduates are ready to step into specialized careers that are in high demand, such as speech-language pathology and audiology.

Program Length and Credits

Students complete the program in five consecutive semesters – two years plus one summer. The program requires 60 credits of academic and clinical coursework with 400 hours of clinical practicum. Students can complete 25 hours through observation, and up to 50 hours may come from undergraduate work. The clinical experience starts with three semesters at the university, followed by two semesters at external sites. Students begin with core courses in their first fall semester and finish with specialized training in their final spring term.

Admission Requirements

A bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA is required. The application package should include a personal statement about your experience with vulnerable individuals, your resume with work history and activities, and two recommendation letters from academic or professional references. Students must also complete prerequisite courses with a minimum 3.0 GPA. These courses include Phonetics, Introduction to Communication Disorders, Early Language Development, and Speech Science.

Pick the Right SLP Program in New York Today

The right speech pathology program is a vital step toward a successful career in this rewarding field. New York definitely offers exceptional educational opportunities through its 30 CAA-ASHA accredited programs across the state. These programs show impressive results – 95% of students complete their degree on time, and 90% find jobs within their first year after graduation.

Speech-language pathologists have bright career prospects ahead. The field will grow by 15% between 2024 and 2034, which is by a lot more than average career growth rates. The median income of $95,410 provides both financial stability and professional satisfaction.

Each program mentioned in this piece has its own strengths and focus areas. NYU Steinhardt provides prestigious training in Manhattan with flexible learning options. Columbia University features specialized bilingual extension opportunities. Syracuse University blends academic study with extensive clinical practice. Hofstra University puts emphasis on hands-on experience at their on-campus clinic.

Students looking for quality education at lower costs can turn to CUNY options like Hunter College and Brooklyn College. These schools make quality training available to more students. Programs offer different specializations – Yeshiva University focuses on medical aspects of speech pathology, while Ithaca College provides both in-person and online learning paths.

Most programs require a strong undergraduate GPA (3.0 or higher), completed prerequisite courses, recommendation letters, and personal statements. GRE scores are now optional at many schools, but excellent academic performance remains key to competitive admission.

This complete overview of New York’s top speech pathology programs helps you assess which school lines up with your career goals, priorities, and personal circumstances. Your chosen program will lead you into a growing profession that helps improve people’s communication skills and quality of life at every age.